Why did you choose graduate school at IU Indianapolis?
I chose IU School of Medicine (IUSM) in Indianapolis for several reasons. As an undergraduate, I participated in several summer research internships at IUSM, where my passion for research was fostered and encouraged by several IUSM faculty members who showed me excellent mentorship and support as I was discerning my education and career goals. I knew I wanted to go to a school where great mentorship is a priority, where the culture is collaborative, and where I wouldn’t feel like just a number. IUSM’s umbrella program for biomedical PhD students was also an attractive feature as I was choosing a graduate school because it allowed me to explore several disciplines in the biomedical sciences before settling on a lab and mentor.
What has been your favorite academic accomplishment since you’ve been here?
One of the most exciting milestones I have accomplished so far upon completing my first academic year of graduate school has been joining the Translational Cancer Biology program for my PhD training. As it is a relatively new option for incoming PhD students pursuing the biomedical sciences at IUSM, I am excited about the opportunity to be trained in such an exciting new program and to focus my studies on translational applications of cancer research.
What do you enjoy most about life in Indianapolis?
I love Indianapolis because there are always things to do! I am a big fan of concerts and sports, and I love that Indy tends to be a hub for those major events. I also love walking along the canal when the weather is nice, trying out new restaurants, and shopping on Mass Ave.
Please provide some details about your work/research as a graduate student and/or any activities you are involved in.
I have recently joined a lab that studies human papillomavirus (HPV), which is a common infection that can lead to six different types of cancers, including cervical cancer and head and neck cancers. Nearly 5% of all cancers worldwide are associated with HPV infections. Projects in the lab are focused on both how HPV infections are established, and how those long-term infections can lead to the development of cancer. My projects are focused on understanding how high-risk HPV viral oncogenes E6 and E7 can partner with host cell proteins to dysregulate typical cellular growth and differentiation processes to drive cancer development and progression.