The 2026 VCU Project SEED program began on June 8 th with a cohort of 4 Richmond area high school students working in the Chemistry Department on summer research projects. We thank the American Chemical Society for sponsoring this program as well as local donations from Dr. Sarah Corley (VCU Chem Alum), the Virginia Section of the American Chemical Society, and other donors who have provided financial assistance for this program through VCU’s giving day. In particular, we would like to acknowledge Dr. Allison Martin for providing program funding in memory of her late husband, Dr. Greg Grover. A brief bio of Greg is given below.
Dr. Greg Grover was born and raised in Chardon, Ohio, where he graduated from Chardon High School in 2001. He went on to earn his undergraduate degree from Gettysburg College in 2006, followed by a PhD in Chemistry from UCLA in 2011. He completed his postdoctoral training in cardiac tissue bioengineering at UC San Diego in 2013, laying the scientific foundation for a career devoted to improving the lives of those living with congenital cardiac disease. Greg dedicated his professional life to translating hydrogel chemistry into meaningful biomedical and biotechnological innovations. He held research and leadership roles at Advanced Biologics and Biologica Technologies before joining Contraline, Inc. in 2017 as Director of Research Development, where he rose to Chief Technology Officer. In 2021, he brought his entrepreneurial vision to life as CEO and Co-Founder of Karios Technologies, Inc. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Greg was deeply committed to nurturing the next generation of scientists. He served as a mentor through the Virginia Chapter of the American Chemical Society, generously sharing his expertise and enthusiasm with emerging researchers. Greg passed away unexpectedly in 2024, leaving behind a legacy of scientific innovation, mentorship, and genuine dedication to patients whose lives he hoped his work would one day transform. This scholarship honors that legacy and supports the future scientists who will carry it forward.