Leigh Underwood
Leigh Ann Horner Underwood is a dedicated chemist and lifelong learner whose passion for science has guided her career across multiple laboratory and pharmaceutical settings. A graduate of the University of Virginia’s College at Wise with a Bachelor of Arts in Biology, Leigh Ann built a strong foundation in organic chemistry, genetics, laboratory methods, and anatomy, complemented by rigorous coursework in calculus, statistics, and ecology. Her early academic curiosity and leadership as vice president of the Pre-Professional Club helped shape her disciplined and detail-oriented approach to scientific research.
Leigh Ann has held key laboratory roles at UPM Pharmaceuticals and Eastman, where she specialized in quality control, sample analysis, and data processing using HPLC and Empower systems. She has trained new hires, ensured compliance with GMP standards, and applied her analytical skills to a wide range of chemical and physical testing. Her work consistently demonstrates a commitment to precision, safety, and continuous improvement, reflecting her belief that scientific integrity is central to effective problem-solving.
Outside the lab, Leigh Ann has been recognized for her leadership and achievements from a young age, earning both the Gold and Silver Awards from the Girl Scouts of the USA, honors reserved for the most exceptional members. She brings the same drive and curiosity to every professional endeavor, balancing her technical expertise with a collaborative and mentorship-oriented approach. Leigh Ann’s career reflects her philosophy: do what you love, and it will never feel like work.
• Certified Quality Technician
• Northeast State Community College
• East Tennessee State University
• Mountain Empire Community College
• The University of Virginia's College at Wise- B.A.
• Gold Award
• Silver Award
• Who's Who Award
• American Chemical Society and
Alumni Association
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my mentor, Karen Sorber, CEO of Chronic Technologies, who believed in me and gave me the opportunity to grow.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to believe in myself and stay persistent, even in a male-dominated field; to young women entering this industry, I’d say don’t doubt your worth—maintain a positive mindset and know you can achieve great things.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is that if you do what you love, it will never feel like work; to young women entering this industry, I’d say follow your passion and let that drive your success.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field right now is that there’s very little room for error—every decision and action must be precise.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in my work and personal life are faith in the Lord, devotion to my family, and a love for reading, trail riding, and fishing.