Anh Tran of Roanoke, Virginia, received the Outstanding Recent Alumna Award during the Virginia Tech College of Agriculture and Life Sciences awards ceremony.

Tran earned her bachelor's degree in biochemistry in 2006 and is currently a senior research associate with Novozymes Biologicals Inc. in Salem, Virginia. Her work resulted in a patent award and a publication in the prestigious international journal Biochemistry.

Since 2010, Tran has overseen the critical process of disposing of hazardous waste materials generated by operations and is co-chair of the company’s community relations committee.

She also is the Virginia Tech alumni representative to Novozyme's research and development recruiting team and regularly participates in activities that benefit Virginia Tech biochemistry majors. For many years she has visited campus to present to student clubs and to students taking the course BCHM 4074 Career Orientation in Biochemistry about opportunities, expectations, and preparation for careers in the biotechnology industry.

“Students find Anh to be not just knowledgeable, but enthusiastic, genuine, and approachable.  Always willing to go the extra mile, she has advised many of our students and assisted several in obtaining jobs and internships,” said Peter Kennelly, professor and former department head of biochemistry.

Numerous students have participated in educational and career-building internships through Tran's assistance, some of which have taken full-time positions with Novozymes after graduation.

“Since graduating from Virginia Tech, Anh has been extremely generous in volunteering her time and efforts to help current students learn about and prepare themselves for the transition from student to young professional,” said Kennelly.

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