Biography

I started my studies in 2019 (pre-pandemic) as a Biochemistry & Molecular Biology major only through the Lyman Briggs College.  Initially, I wanted a career in STEM where I could perform research in cancer biology. My interest in anthropology had always existed, but I felt there was no practical application. Eventually, I recognized anthropology offered something that STEM didn’t; an accumulation of more than technical application, but history, theory, and context. After discovering my true passion for molecular anthropology, I added a second Bachelor of Science in anthropology to provide an anthropological foundation for my future research.

This was a turning point for my career goals, going from a cancer biologist to a molecular anthropologist. My curiosity piqued about human evolution and ancient genetics – which is where I want to focus my future research. My motivating research question is who are we? I

While the majority of my research experience has been in physiology and biochemistry, they have provided invaluable insight into research skills. During my longest research position in the Andrechek laboratory at Michigan State University, I have transitioned from a smaller mentee role to a larger mentor role in the span of two years. Now, as the most senior undergraduate, I developed a new research project which focuses on investigating the specific roles of two genes, and their role in tumor progression. The progress I have made has developed our lab’s foundational understanding of these genes. Despite the research being unpublished, I am confident my work will be incorporated into future proposals and research, impacting our newfound knowledge of these oncogenes. 

Beyond my research with the Andrechek laboratory, I worked internationally for three months with the Feldbrugge laboratory at Heinrich Heine Universität in Dusseldorf, Germany. My role was to obtain and analyze hundreds of images of the plant pathogen Ustilago maydis. Interestingly, this topic was vastly different from cancer biology, which allowed me the opportunity to study the Rrm4 protein involved in mRNA transport. Methodologically, I performed microscopy of the protein in vitro and I was able to identify a potential domain specific driver of the protein. While unpublished, this data aids the laboratory in their foundational understanding of the role of Rrm4 protein in mRNA transport.

In preparation for a MS/PhD in molecular anthropology, I have utilized my course work to explore the ethics of this research. Ethical research is an integral part of anthropology and I have made it a priority to read and discuss these consequences with professionals. My background in biochemistry and anthropology, alongside relevant research experience, prepares me to undertake a PhD in Anthropology, aligning with my preferred research topic and goals to study ancient genetics and their relation to health. 

In my free time I dedicate time to learning about disability and advocating for accessible change at Michigan State (as a disabled student). My passions include reading, writing, and dancing.

My favorite book is… The Last Leonardo by Ben Lewis

My favorite thing I’ve written is a play called “Flowers for My Friend Mia”

My favorite role I’ve danced is… Clara in the Nutcracker