Professor Debbie Crans was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the International Conference on Catalysis and Reaction Engineering. Crans was recognized for her groundbreaking contributions in the fields of bio and organic chemistry, biochemistry, and chemical biology.

The award showcases how Crans dedicated her life to fostering the next generation of scientists. As a professor at Colorado State University, she has mentored countless students and postdoctoral researchers, encouraging them to think critically, collaborate openly, and aim high.

A Crans group member and grad student, Skylar Markham said, “I know the entire group is very proud of you and look forward to seeing all of the accomplishments that you have gained over your career, and we get to be a part of. I am very proud of you and getting to have you as a mentor as my chemistry grows, and you help grow me as a scientist.”

Professor Crans’ invaluable research continues as she teams with members of her group and with scientists outside of the university. They are investigating the effects of three cancer drugs, including Verzenio— a drug Prof. Crans took for two years after her diagnosis—on long non-coding RNAs and signaling in late relapse cancer cells. They are also researching new vanadium complexes for medical applications. The research aims to enhance efficacy while reducing toxicity, offering insights into the mechanisms by which vanadium compounds combat disease.

Quotes used from award video presented at the conference.