Chris Whitehead
He/Him
I am gay and I am a chemist.//
I am a postdoctoral fellow at the University of Basel in Switzerland, where I study metal nanocrystals. Previously, I obtained my PhD from Colorado State University, where I elucidated the nucleation mechanism of iridium nanoparticles. For me, being gay in STEM has been a lonely experience as there was rarely someone else in my room that shared my identities. I founded a social/support group while at CSU for queer and trans graduate students (CSU GraduateQTs). My goal is to be a professor for reasons. First, I love scientific investigation. Second, I want to be the role model and mentor that I never had as an undergraduate or graduate student. I want to make LGBTQ+ students feel seen, embraced, and empowered.
Other than research, I love to run long distances, casually play volleyball, and partake in competitive swimming. When I need a break, I like to drink wine or margaritas with my friends and bake like I’m a contestant on Great British Bake Off!