Department of Chemistry

The HIV Detective is a solution being developed for early, rapid diagnosis of HIV. The handheld testing platform would allow health care workers to gather a few drops of blood onto a sensor and provide results in one minute instead of the 24 hours currently required. This leap forward in testing is possible due to another recently developed Pitt technology — a THC breath test.
Costas Karakatsanis headshot, wearing blue button down shirt with books/manuscripts and a painting in the background
The sleuthing skills of Pitt alumnus Costas Karakatsanis (A&S ’74, ’78G), who worked in materials science at Bayer for three decades before retiring and taking up volunteering at Pittsburgh's Carnegie Museum of Art, made him a critical investigator in the mission to restore a masterpiece.
Screen of breathalyzer device reading THC Detected!
As states consider ways to introduce medical and/or recreational marijuana into their markets, they are also considering ways to detect intoxication and establish guidelines for safe use. A new device from an interdisciplinary team at Pitt could be a critical tool.
a head shot of the researcher
As a scientist at the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health Mining Program, Lauren Chubb (A&S ’10, GSPH ’13, ’16) has developed on-the-spot air analysis software to help keep miners safe.
Mallepalli in a spruce turtle neck in front of a big window looking out on Oakland
Abhignya Mallepalli thought she’d become a doctor someday, but a series of inspiring instructors and impactful experiences in local hospitals changed her path.