How/Why Research? I was interested in working with genetics after participating in a high school summer research program and taking a genetics course during my senior year of HS. I explored my combined interest in plants and genetics by working with the Jones Lab over the summer between my freshman and sophomore year here. I wanted to continue working with plants and participate in research for credit during my last two years of undergraduate studies. I cold emailed my current PI (through the department of biology faculty page) after reading about interesting projects the lab was currently undertaking and have been working on my project since being accepted!
Research Experience: In the Reed lab, I study the effects of CRISPR-Cas9 generated mutations in two redundant genes (ARF6/8) that encode ARF transcription factors, which work in the presence of Auxin to regulate Arabidopsis thaliana flower maturation timing and development. This research uncovers the collective effect of ARF transcription factors with its repressors (Aux/IAA repressors encoded by IAA genes) on various plant developmental processes, and this could be broadly applied to cereal crops. I have learned a lot of lab techniques, how to critically analyze data and troubleshoot, and how to present my research in front of different audiences!
Student Organizations/Clubs: Chemistry ULA, Alpha Chi Sigma, Sigma Delta Pi, UNC Bharat Sangeet
Random Fun Fact: I can speak 4 languages! (English, Spanish, Tamil, and Korean)