How/Why Research? I became interested in research because I wanted to utilize what I was learning in class in a meaningful way and to also learn more about genetics and biophysics in ways that could not be taught in class. My PI presented the lab’s research at one of the UBJC seminars that I was attending and I was able to talk with him afterwards to learn more about the research and how biology and mathematics mesh in unexpected, but interesting ways. Since my second semester at UNC, I have been a member of the Bloom Lab, and I plan to continue through undergrad!
Research Experience: At the Bloom Lab, we are interested in understanding chromatin structure and dynamics. My specific research involves determining the minimal centromere 8 of yeast along with centromere RNA function and its effects in metaphase. Beyond the technical skills that come with working in a wet lab and computational setting, these experiences have impacted me because it really showed me what research is, including designing experiments that reveal a lot with minimal resources, collaborating both within the lab and outside, and learning literary skills necessary for communication.
Student Organizations/Clubs: Carolina Science Olympiad, International Genetic Engineering Machine (iGEM), Phi Beta Kappa
Random Fun Fact: I painted a bunch of miniatures for my favorite board game!