I Am a Researcher
Meika Tomita
Major(s): Human Biology Major, Human Developmental Sciences Healthy Aging Minor
UC San Diego graduation year: 2027
Which research programs/experiences have you been a part of?
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Eureka! Scholars Program 2025
What are you researching (or did you do in the past)?
I conduct research in a microbiome lab at UCSD, the Knight Lab. This summer I developed a faster, more cost effective DNA quantification step before next-gen sequencing. To improve low biomass microbiome studies, I helped synthesize and test artificial positive controls to ensure better contamination detection and overall reliability of these studies. I've also been a part of neuroscience research working with epileptic mouse models and researching interneuron development computationally.
Why and how did you decide to get involved in undergraduate research?
I have always been interested in nutrition and wanted to dive deeper into the mechanisms behind how diet can impact human health and disease. I got involved in research by reaching out to researchers whose work I found intriguing, having coffee chats, applying through the REAL and Handshake portals, and seeking guidance from the Undergraduate Research Hub to explore opportunities.
What has been the most exciting/interesting thing you've discovered through the research?
The most exciting part of my research was seeing my protocol for DNA quantification being adopted by others! After weeks of preparing and testing, I created the threshold curve for synthetic positive controls, learned how to use a new sequencer, and ultimately saw my work make an impact in improving the efficiency and accuracy of microbiome studies.
What did you gain from the Undergraduate Research Hub?
Through the many components of the Eureka! program, I have gained much more confidence and independence as a researcher. I also developed close friendships with peers across a variety of disciplines from engineering to social sciences. This experience broadened my perspective and strengthened my desire to pursue interdisciplinary research in the future.
What advice would you give to students starting research?
It’s normal to feel intimidated at first. But being curious, asking questions, and advocating for yourself will pay off. If something isn’t a good fit, take the lessons, set boundaries, and don’t be afraid to pivot!
What are your future goals?
I hope to pursue a career that combines both of my interests in research and medicine!
I want to thank the Eureka! program and Dr. Suckow for this amazing opportunity as well as the URH staff for their support. None of this would be possible without the guidance from the Knight Lab members, especially my mentor Caitriona Brennan, thank you!
Pictures
- Meika Tomita Profile
- Meika Tomita with URH Staff at the Summer Research Conference
- Meika Tomita with fellow presenters at the Summer Research Conference