On January 20, 2026, ten chemistry graduate students visited Afton Scientific following an
invitation from Chief Financial Officer Jesse Boyd, with the visit organized and led by the
Chemistry Career Seminar Committee. The group toured both the laboratory facilities and
manufacturing operations.
In the laboratories, researchers introduced students to modern biochemical research
platforms, including clean benches and multi-channel syringe pump reactor, and
analytical instrumentation such as FTIR microscopes and HPLC systems.
During the operations tour, students were impressed by the high-speed processes for
injection filling, closure, and inspection of automated sterile manufacturing lines which
were under preparation.
The visit concluded with a Q&A session, where students discussed career paths in the
pharmaceutical industry, future company goals, and potential internship opportunities.
The conversation provided valuable insight into pharmaceutical manufacturing and career
development. We sincerely thank Jesse Boyd and the Afton Scientific team for hosting the
visit, and Aida Abdi for coordinating communication and student participation.
Student Reflections
“Our visit to Afton Scientific was a highly engaging look into how pharmaceutical quality
work happens behind the scenes. In QC, we saw how drug products from other companies
are analyzed for impurities, and it was especially impressive how much emphasis is placed
on minimizing direct human contact with medicines to protect product integrity and safety.
Just as memorable was the friendly, collaborative environment: teams across di@erent
sections were supportive of one another, and Jesse Boyd was especially helpful in guiding
the tour, answering questions, and making the visit a great experience for us.”
“The most interesting part of the visit to Afton Scientific for me was gaining an actual
insight into how this part of the chemical industry is structured, as well as the challenges
and responsibilities involved in chemical manufacturing. It was valuable to learn about this
side of the industry, as it di@ers significantly from our daily lab work, hence it is rather hard
to envision by myself.”Visiting students and Jesse Boyd (the fourth from right)
