Hi there!

My name is Mateo Contreras. I am majoring in Chemistry B.S. with a minor in Computer Science at San Diego State University. I'm currently doing research work for the Mao lab on campus, I am focusing on computationally modeling enzyme reactions, specifically the IDH1/IDH2 reaction. This project is in collaboration with the Sohl group. I was appointed to MARC (Maximizing Access to Research Careers) in May 2024. Recently, I have also been exploring biocatalyst design, and participated in the Summer 2025 University of Pittsburgh NSF REU with the Liu group doing this work. This upcoming Fall 2026, I hope to participate in a Chemistry Ph.D. and eventually go into a career in biocatalyst research.

The main thing you need to know about me is my obsession with music. I am always listening to music, whether it be while relaxing, doing work, or even going to sleep. Live music is unrivaled in my opinion, and as such I love going to concerts and festivals. The most recent festival I went to was Kilby Block Party in SLC, and I was lucky to see Unknown Mortal Orchestra, Vampire Weekend, and Pond in concert. I have also recently been getting into cooking, and love to make food for friends and family.