Since I have always been interested in life sciences, I eventually transitioned to my current position in Dr. Andrew McGuire’s lab (June 2018) and began working to engineer a cytotoxic T cell that will destroy Epstein-Barr virus-infected tumors. As the lead researcher on this project, I have been able to work through the entire research process and learned many new experimental techniques. I have also been learning how to troubleshoot various challenges such as low DNA expression and low surface protein expression. Although the failed experiments are frustrating, I have enjoyed the process of thinking creatively to understand the problem and finding a potential solution. Additionally, learning about the complexities of the immune system piqued my interest in neuroimmunology.
During the COVID-19 pandemic I also had the opportunity to do research regarding single cell RNA-sequencing of convalescent B cells. |
My artifact is this photo of the Space Needle at sunrise from the Hutch. Although not directly related to any of my experiments, it is a reminder of going in early and staying late for experiments as needed because I enjoy the science.
|