Driven by curiosity: Blaine's journey in biochemistry
For Blaine Wagner, growing up in Greensburg, Indiana, meant being surrounded by agriculture. He spent hours learning how things grow and how science shapes the food we eat. His early curiosity grew when he met a biochemist who had worked for ADM for 40 years.
“She told me how much she loved going to work every day and how proud she was of the advances she made in sustainable agriculture,” Wagner said. “That stuck with me. I realized I wanted to do something that mattered.”
Now majoring in biochemistry, Wagner plans to graduate in May 2028. His goal is to use research to make food systems more sustainable and help reduce global hunger.
The Opportunities are Endless
“I was drawn to Purdue because of the research opportunities and the strong community within the College of Agriculture,” he said. “I’m surrounded by people who care about making a difference. We all have our own goals, but we’re united by a shared passion for feeding the world.”
Within the Department of Biochemistry, Wagner found a close-knit group. “There are about 30 of us in my cohort,” he said. “We sit together in large lecture halls, work together in labs and help each other through everything.”
learning to lead
Outside the classroom, Wagner found his place by getting involved. As an ag ambassador, he gives tours and speaks with prospective students. “Choosing a college can be stressful, so it’s meaningful to help others find their fit,” he said.
He also serves as an officer in the biochemistry club, where members work with local elementary and middle school students interested in science. “We run experiments and show kids how fun science can be,” he said. “Seeing how curious they are makes me remember what first sparked my own love for science.”
One of his favorite memories so far has been attending the Agriculture Future of America (AFA) Conference, where he met students from across the country.
Wagner looks over biochemistry project during SCARF program 
Wagner showcases research poster at symposium 
Wagner attends Agriculture Future of America conference Gaining research experience
Wagner works in the Ogas Lab as an undergraduate researcher. He has learned techniques for studying chromatin remodeling in Arabidopsis, a model plant used in genetic research. His first project involved prime editing, a precise gene-editing method that helps scientists make small DNA changes with fewer errors.
“I started off helping with other projects, but over time I learned how to design my own experiments and form hypotheses,” he said. “That moment when something finally works in the lab — it’s the best feeling.”
Through the Summer College of Agriculture Research Fellowship (SCARF) program, he spent the summer working full time in the lab, developing skills and confirming his love for research.
That experience made me realize I want to keep going and eventually earn my PhD,” he said.
Looking ahead
Between classes, research and extracurriculars, Wagner stays motivated by remembering the people who support him. “My family and friends keep me grounded,” he said. “And honestly, Purdue makes it easy to stay curious. There’s always something new to learn here.”
For students considering Purdue, Wagner’s advice is simple: “Say yes to opportunities, even if they’re outside your comfort zone. College is about discovering who you are and what you love. Purdue has so much to offer. You just have to take that first small step.”
After graduation, Wagner plans to pursue a PhD and continue conducting agricultural research focused on sustainability and global food security.
“I want to do work that helps people. That’s what drives me every day.”
Featured Stories
The U.S. Forest Service invested decades of work and tens of millions of dollars to develop a...
Researchers are working to scale up the green production of maple syrup in the Central Hardwood...
The eyes are the window to the soul, according to an old saying. But Purdue University’s...
For her contributions to and impact on wildlife management in the state of Indiana, Geriann...
PFAS have been shown to increase risks to immunity, reproductive health, developmental delays,...
Senior Isaac Johnson, a forestry major with a concentration in forest management, worked as an...