Undergraduate Institution: The Ohio State University

Research mentor: Maria Spies, PhD (Biochemistry and Molecular Biology)
Research topic: Studying the Molecular Mechanisms of Replication Protein A

Hometown: Des Moines, Iowa

Background: My curiosity about how life works is what first got me interested in science. During my undergraduate studies, I had the opportunity to do research in Dr. Jackman’s lab, where I studied the activity and substrate preferences of Thg1-like proteins. This experience helped me become more interested in biomolecular mechanisms and how understanding important cellular processes can contribute to cancer research and treatment. I am really excited to be in Dr. Spies’ lab for my post-baccalaureate because I will have the opportunity to learn more about DNA replication and the molecular processes that help maintain DNA. I am also excited to gain more research experience and learn new techniques that will help prepare me for my career moving forward.

After the post-baccalaureate program, my goal is to pursue a PhD and build a career as a cancer researcher, with a focus on drug development and discovery.

In my free time I enjoy running and exploring different trails, trying new recipes, and spending time with friends and family.