I Am a Researcher

Having come from a high school that had little to no opportunities to conduct research in the heart of Los Angeles, I was eager to get involved in research in a laboratory setting at UCSD. I was excited about the prospect of immersing myself in an environment where others are also passionate about science. I spoke to mentors in the PATHS program, who helped me make contact with faculty I was potentially interested in working with.

What has been the most exciting/interesting thing you've discovered through your research?

In the Nieh Lab, we've discovered a non-invasive way to measure infection levels in bees using their feces, without having to sacrifice them. We have found a way to put pressure on their abdomen using CO2 and a straw apparatus to blow on them and induce defecation. It has been exciting to translate this technique into queen bees and develop new protocols to do so.

What did you gain from this program/experience?

I have gained the confidence to carry out my own projects and strengthen my scientific communication skills. I am proud of the work and professional connections I have been able to make at UCSD because of research.

What advice would you give to students starting research?

Put yourself in spaces that are unfamiliar to you. If you see an opportunity that you don't know if you are fit for, go for it and dip your toes!

What are your future plans?

My plans involve taking a gap year to explore outreach and non-profit work. I am hoping to make conversations regarding ecology and climate change more accessible in underrepresented communities and work towards actively decolonizing science. Down the line, I hope to pursue a Masters or PhD in Marine Ecology and work for the state. What is science without sharing it with others?

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