Jessica Rouge

Dr. Jessica Rouge is laying the groundwork for future advancements in the field of chemistry, with a particular focus on the intersection of biological systems and chemical innovation. As an Associate Professor and holder of the Paul Krenicki Professorship of Chemistry at the University of Connecticut, she is at the forefront of research that seeks to harness the power of enzymes and nucleic acids. Her work aims to engineer highly specific and targeted responses within chemical and biological systems, a pursuit that holds promise for significant breakthroughs in diagnostics and therapeutics. Dr. Rouge's academic journey began with a B.S. in Biochemistry from Boston College in 2006, where she developed a strong foundation in the molecular sciences. She then pursued her Ph.D. in Chemistry at the University of Colorado, completing it in 2012. Her doctoral research laid the groundwork for her future endeavors, focusing on the intricate interactions between chemical compounds and biological entities. Following her Ph.D., Dr. Rouge expanded her expertise as a Postdoctoral Fellow in Chemistry at Northwestern University from 2013 to 2015. During this time, she honed her skills in the synthesis and application of catalytic RNA sequences, particularly in their assembly at nanoparticle surfaces. This innovative approach has become a cornerstone of her research, offering new avenues for the development of sensing, diagnostic, and therapeutic tools. At the University of Connecticut, Dr. Rouge leads a dynamic research group that explores the potential of nanoparticles as platforms for catalytic RNA assembly. Her work is characterized by a deep understanding of both chemical and biological systems, enabling the design of novel strategies that could revolutionize the way we approach disease detection and treatment. Dr. Rouge's contributions to the field have been recognized through various awards and honors, reflecting her commitment to advancing scientific knowledge and her impact on the academic community. Her research not only pushes the boundaries of chemistry but also inspires the next generation of scientists to explore the possibilities at the intersection of chemistry and biology.