Erin DeJan

Erin DeJan is a doctoral student in the chemistry program at the University of Cincinnati. In the Simms Lab of Functional Biomaterials, her research focuses on developing and characterizing a library of hydrogels containing a phytochemical to target fibroblast dysfunction in keloids.

Prior to attending UC, she obtained degrees in chemistry and sociology from the illustrious Xavier University of Louisiana (XULA). Erin conducted summer research as an intern at the Novartis Institute of Biomedical Research (NIBR) and as a SMART scholar exploring MD/PhD career paths at the University of Michigan. In addition, she has conducted long-term organic chemistry research on modifying a phytochemical to target triple-negative breast cancer under the guidance of Dr. Payton-Stewart at XULA. Erin was also awarded the Certificate of Undergraduate Excellence by the Royal Society of Chemistry in 2025 and was selected for the GRADStar Scholars Program, designed for students planning for a future in graduate school and research.

Outside of the lab, Erin spends her time listening to and playing jazz as well as exploring horticultural and environmental topics. In the future, she envisions developing a phytochemical-based material to address environmental problems, such as the soil and air pollution in Louisiana’s Cancer Alley, where Erin grew up. Erin plans to engage in work that will improve the health outcomes of her community while fostering a clear line of communication between herself, the public, and other scientists.