ANGEL GUYTON ’21 was a junior transfer student in her first day of class at TCU when Kat Barger, associate professor of physics and astronomy, told students that anyone interested in conducting research should see her.

“I remember sitting there the entire class,” Guyton said, “and just being like, ‘OK, I need to be one of the first ones that runs up there and shows my interest.’ ”

She found an opportunity in the lab of Hana Dobrovolny, professor and department chair of physics and astronomy. “We focused on cancer cells and nanoparticles,” Guyton said, “and it was all about drug delivery into those cancer cells — basically being able to kill off the cancer cells without having to kill any of the normal cells.”

The experience, she said, deepened her scientific understanding and ultimately led her to a career in research. She went on to secure research jobs in labs focused on Alzheimer’s disease and molecular biology. In her current full-time role as a scientist with Alcon, Guyton tests products to make sure they meet FDA regulations.

Last year, she started a master’s in medical science, balancing studies with her career and learning how to apply her scientific skills to the medical field.

“TCU is more than just my alma mater — it is the foundation that has propelled me toward a career in research and medicine,” she said. “The university instilled in me the values of academic excellence, service and perseverance, which continue to guide me.”