PULSe Student Profiles

Training Group:

Chemical Biology

Mentor / Lab:

Jessica Fortin

Contact Email:

tademoye@purdue.edu

Specific Research Area / Project:

My research focuses on drug discovery for neurodegenerative diseases, particularly Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. These diseases are marked by progressive neuron degeneration, leading to cognitive and motor dysfunction. I aim to develop novel therapeutic interventions to slow or halt disease progression. By targeting specific molecular pathways implicated in neurodegenerative disease pathogenesis, such as protein misfolding involving tau, amyloid-beta, and alpha-synuclein, I hope to identify and elucidate the mechanisms of potential drug candidates. Integrating drug discovery, medicinal chemistry, pharmacology, and neurobiology, my research seeks to find compounds that can modify disease progression, improve symptoms, and enhance patient quality of life. Ultimately, my goal is to contribute to the development of effective therapies that address the unmet medical needs of those affected by these debilitating conditions.

About Me:

Outside the lab, I enjoy singing, watching soccer, and playing video games. Singing allows me to express my creativity and unwind from the rigors of research. Watching soccer is another passion of mine; I love following major leagues and international tournaments, and it offers a thrilling way to relax and connect with friends and fellow fans.

Training Group:

Chemical Biology

Mentor / Lab:

Severin Schneebeli and Jianing Li

Contact Email:

zelawadl@purdue.edu

Specific Research Area / Project:

My research involves the design of peptide-based therapeutics and optimization of peptide synthesis. Moreover, I am interested in the development of methods for efficient peptide sequencing that can then be used in different biochemical assays.

About Me:

In a less-of-chemistry state, I find myself reading fiction, non-fiction (history), and poetry. I also love unwinding through yoga and cycling.

Training Group:

Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology

Mentor / Lab:

Emily C. Dykhuizen

Specific Research Area / Project:

Polycomb repressor complex 1 in health and disease

About Me:

After obtaining my degree, I want to continue in academia, the sole place that I see myself as successful. I love teaching, I love it even more when I notice I am learning, too. Seeing people are getting engaged, and taking steps forward always motivates me. I love doing research, contributing to scientific knowledge with small bricks. Here at Purdue, meeting brilliant professors, graduate students, research assistants around, I am even further motivated to my ultimate goal: To be a productive scientist.

Training Group:

Molecular Signaling and Cancer Biology

Mentor / Lab:

Philip Low

Contact Email:

amin50@purdue.edu

Specific Research Area / Project:

Cancer is the second leading cause of death worldwide. Advanced stage cancers often show upregulation of transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β), which suppresses the immune system, induces epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), promotes chemotherapy resistance, and facilitates angiogenesis, contributing to tumor progression and metastasis. Current treatment options for advanced stage cancers like triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) are limited and have poor prognosis. Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in the tumor microenvironment (TME) worsen prognosis via TGF-β signaling. Inhibiting TGF-β signaling in TAMs and CAFs may offer a potential treatment for advanced cancers. My research focuses on developing TGF-β inhibitory drug conjugates targeting TAMs and CAFs for cancer management.

Why PULSe:

My graduate school search began with keywords “Cancer Biology”, and “Oncology”. The “Molecular Signaling and Cancer Biology” training group of the PULSe program caught my attention. The availability of a number of labs with fascinating cancer research and the opportunity to rotate in four labs led me to choose this program. Additionally, the availability of the facilities like genetics, genomics, proteomics and instruments like advanced imaging microscopes, chromatographic and spectroscopic instruments, flow cytometry, X-ray irradiator etc. further reinforced my decision. Furthermore, the excellent reputation and world ranking were other decisive factors in my choice to join Purdue University.

About Me:

When not in the lab, I enjoy watching movies and web series, spending time with family and friends, and immersing myself in a good book. I love visiting nature spots like beaches, lakes, and mountains for their tranquility. I'm enthusiastic about cricket and soccer, both playing and watching. Photography is another hobby of mine, especially capturing natural landscapes. I also enjoy DIY projects, which let me creatively engage with everyday tasks.

Training Group:

Molecular Signaling and Cancer Biology

Mentor / Lab:

Chang-Deng Hu

Specific Research Area / Project:

Mechanisms and Targeting of PRMT5-mediated Neuroendocrine Differentiation in Prostate cancer

About Me:

I came to Purdue from a non-traditional route. After finishing my undergrad at Indiana University in biology and chemistry, I worked as a analytical biochemist in industry. From there I developed an interest in large-scale proteomics projects and because accustomed to working in multi-disciplinary teams to tackle biological problems. I decided to pursue a Ph.D. at Purdue in order to gain the training to tackle complex challenges and combine my interest in industry/commercialization with science. Purdue has such a strong track record of entrepreneurship and biotechnology that it was an easy choice where to obtain my graduate training.

My experience at Purdue has been incredible. The rotation experience allowed me to identify my PI and work on my same thesis topic in different labs. I was able to take the biological context for my thesis and perform the structural biology portion of my research at the Cryo-EM facility under Dr. Wen Jiang, who is now a member of my thesis advisory committee. My committee is comprised of experts in synthetic organic chemistry, computational biology and structural biology in addition to my advisor’s experience in the disease/clinical aspect. Without an interdisciplinary program, I would not have had such an opportunity to be mentored by four PI’s each in different areas of science. Because of my experience in PULSe, I was awarded a T32 fellowship to enhance my research under the Purdue Institute for Drug Discovery.

I would like to utilize my graduate training to combine the strengths from both academic and industrial environments. My goal is to harness the unrestricted creativity of research potential from academia with the resource-rich environment of industry not only to develop biological solutions but also to bring them to market. PULSe allowed me to perform a semester “internship” with the Purdue Foundry’s Center for Entrepreneurship in which I worked with PI’s with drug candidates and performed market analyses with experts including a former business analyst from Eli Lilly and the CEO of ImmuneWorks. My personal goal is to continue along this path and direct university-developed research to its most realized potential in the market.

Training Group:

Microbiology, Immunology and Infectious Diseases

Mentor / Lab:

Robert Stahelin

Contact Email:

bbhowal@purdue.edu

Why PULSe:

I chose to attend PULSe because of the diversified research opportunities it offered. I could explore a variety of labs across departments before I joined my final lab, which enriched my grad school experience.

About Me:

I am a trained Kathak dancer. I also love to read, cook, travel and socialize with animals when I'm not in the lab.

Training Group:

Biomolecular Structure and Biophysics

Mentor / Lab:

Fang Huang

Contact Email:

bi19@purdue.edu

Specific Research Area / Project:

Current single-particle tracking (SPT) methods localize and link particle positions across frames, characterizing underlying motion behavior through statistical analyses such as mean square displacement. However, localization imprecision, structured backgrounds, motion blur, and linkage errors are significant challenges that prevent the accurate extraction of the underlying biomolecule’s motion behavior. My research is focused on developing an accurate, end-to-end deep learning approach to address these issues. Our method bypasses the conventional localization process by utilizing features directly extracted from raw camera frames, estimating motion behavior with minimal information loss. Additionally, I am working on applying two-color single-molecule localization microscopy to study the nanoscale molecular organization of two types of Myosin II within the contractile ring during cytokinesis.

Why PULSe:

This program represents a critical step in my journey toward becoming a researcher capable of integrating knowledge across different fields to advance biological studies. And PULSe offers an excellent opportunity to be co-mentored by two experts in distinctly different areas, immersing me in cross-disciplinary knowledge and deepening my understanding of both biological science and imaging technology development. Collaborating with a diverse research team and engaging in interdisciplinary projects will not only expand my academic network but also refine my leadership skills, laying the foundation for an independent research career.

About Me:

In my free time, I enjoy engaging in e-Sport with my friends such as Dota2. Recently, I've also taken up bass fishing, exploring hidden natural beauty around the Lafayette area. (I've discovered a few secret spots that are perfect for a quiet day of fishing. Feel free to reach out if you are interested!)

Training Group:

Microbiology, Immunology and Infectious Diseases

Mentor / Lab:

Richard J. Kuhn

Specific Research Area / Project:

Flavivirus maturation in mosquitoes

About Me:

When I got my acceptance letter to the PULSE program in late February 2016 I was in my home country, Colombia. It is important to mention that by that time South America was facing the peak of the Zika outbreak. Zika was the hot topic everywhere. Then, later in April, Dr. Richard Kuhn's lab published a paper where they resolved the first structure of the Zika virus (Sirohi et al., 2016). Richard was in the news everywhere, and I was like "Now that I am going to Purdue, I want to be in his lab". The dream came true and now I am exactly where I wanted to be.

I officially joined the PULSe program in August 2016. It has been four successful years full of wonderful experiences. I enjoy going to the Corec, trying the different restaurants of the Greater Lafayette Area and interacting with the world-class environment that Purdue offers in terms of science and culture.

In the future, I want to become a faculty and continue my research in different areas of virology. One day I want to use my PhD degree as a way to do research that can help move the world forward in terms of public health. The areas that I would like to pursue as a faculty would be projects around HIV, flaviviruses, influenza and coronavirus.

Training Group:

Molecular Signaling and Cancer Biology

Mentor / Lab:

Dr. Michael K. Wendt

Specific Research Area / Project:

Cancer Biology, Anti-metastatic Pharmacology, Drug Resistance Nodal Targeting as a Multifunctional Therapeutic Strategy in Drug Resistant Metastatic Cancer

About Me:

I got my bachelor's and master's degrees in pharmacy at SJTU. During the 7-year study, I was involved in the research about both mechanistic studies in breast cancer and development of biotechnology drugs. I applied to the PULSe program as I wanted to try different types of research before I decided on my career. I was first enrolled in the biotechnology training group when I joined PULSe. After the rotation, I found that I was still interested in breast cancer research, and I was impressed by the research of my current lab. Finally, I shifted to the molecular signaling and cancer biology training group, and joined the Wendt lab. I was satisfied that PULSe provided my multiple chances for the important decision in my Ph.D. career. It was a smart decision for me, which has impacted my career path in the future.

I have had a smooth and happy experience in working on my dissertation projects. The memorable experience I have had with PULSe program was the first year poster session. This was the first time I presented my research to the public. The preliminary exam at PULSe was also a unique experience around the campus. We prepare a proposal which is not related to our thesis research. I was happy that I passed the exam smoothly. I was also excited when I received a fellowship from the Purdue Center for Cancer Research in 2019. The PULSe office has always been helpful through these years. I was moved by the farewell day for Sue. Overall, the sweet memories with PULSe will always stay in my mind and be the precious fortune in my life.

I would like to start a career in the academic after finishing my PhD, and continue in cancer research. I hope that I can find a faculty position after further post-doctoral training. I want to give my experience to the next generation, and contribute more to finding better cancer therapeutics.

Training Group:

Microbiology, Immunology and Infectious Diseases

Mentor / Lab:

Philip Low

Contact Email:

chen3318@purdue.edu

Specific Research Area / Project:

My project aims to develop novel treatment against atherosclerosis, the potential cause of myocardial infarction (MI, commonly known as "heart attack”). The popularization of Western-style diet has contributed greatly to atherosclerosis, and it is now the major cause of death worldwide. It is believed that the lesion of atherosclerosis starts with the retention of Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) in the artery wall. Although it may take decades for the lesion to lead to major symptoms, but without the changing of lifestyle, these lesions can potentially develop into rupture-prone plaque, which precipitates acute thrombosis and its consequences: MI. My goal is to deplete these accumulated LDL at the early stage of atherosclerosis, which requires the application of a variety of experimental techniques from synthesis to animal study.

About Me:

Outside of the lab, I enjoy traveling and experiencing new things. I do have routines for swimming and playing soccer with my friends, but casual gathering with my cohorts also happens fairly often. We have tried many different restaurants in the area ever since the beginning of graduate study, and sometime we would also go to Indianapolis or Chicago for day trips.

Training Group:

Integrative Neuroscience

Mentor / Lab:

Xi Cheng

Contact Email:

cheng434@purdue.edu

Specific Research Area / Project:

Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is a common heritable autism spectrum disorder (ASD) marked by sensory hypersensitivity and learning difficulties. In Fmr1 KO mice, a model for FXS, previous studies have shown impaired 4-8 Hz oscillations, disrupted excitatory/inhibitory (E/I) balance, and short-term plasticity deficits. This study explored how FXS affects inter-areal connectivity between primary (V1) and higher visual cortex (LM). Using silicon probes and channelrhodopsin-2-assisted circuit mapping, we found that Fmr1 KO mice had reduced 4-8 Hz oscillations and weaker synaptic strength in visual pathways compared to wild-type mice. Additionally, visual experience induced dendritic spine plasticity and increased c-Fos expression in wildtype but not Fmr1 KO mice, highlighting the potential therapeutic benefits of visual training for ASD.

About Me:

I love to immerse myself in creative and calming activities when I'm not in the lab. Playing with Lego allows me to unwind while building intricate structures and exploring my imagination. Additionally, I have a passion for gardening and caring for plants, which provides a peaceful escape and a sense of accomplishment as I nurture my green companions. These hobbies balance my scientific pursuits, offering relaxation and inspiration.

Training Group:

Chemical Biology

Mentor / Lab:

Dr. Tonglei Li

Contact Email:

ccorpste@purdue.edu

Specific Research Area / Project:

Developing and predicting long-acting drug formulation performance for pediatric HIV

About Me:

I was drawn to Purdue for graduate school because of PULSe; as an undergrad here I had had friends in my lab who were in PULSe, which led me to think about applying to interdisciplinary programs as a way to develop a broader understanding of many science fields. I loved the freedom of the program and the ability to rotate through labs in different departments, and in fact I would have never heard of the department I ended up joining and loving without this freedom.

PULSe is well-known for developing a strong, supportive community. My PULSe cohort is a group that I can continue to rely on, both socially and academically, even though we are now all spread out to different departments and research areas.

Science writing has been a passion of mine that has ultimately driven me throughout graduate school. I believe that effective science communication is nearly just as important as groundbreaking research; without the ability to talk about our research in a meaningful way, we can't hope for it to make the impact that it deserves. Whether this is an academic or industry setting, or even to the lay public, I want to help promote an increased understanding and appreciation for science in this way.

Training Group:

Integrative Neuroscience

Mentor / Lab:

Jason Cannon

Specific Research Area / Project:

Heterocyclic Amine Exposure and Risk of Parkinson's Disease

About Me:

As I was growing up, I was constantly being exposed to science because my father is a chemical engineer. We would make peanut brittle every year, a family tradition, and even that included a science lesson on how the baking soda reacts with the peanut brittle to make it nice and foamy. Therefore, I always knew I wanted to be a scientist; however, I was unsure what I wanted to study. During my undergraduate career, I had the opportunity to work in a neurotoxicology lab one summer, and I immediately fell in love with the complexity of the brain and how much could go wrong, leading to various neurological diseases. When I applied for graduate school, I knew I wanted to continue studying neurological diseases, but was unsure what aspect I wanted to study it from, whether it be toxicology, pharmacology, or more basic medical sciences. This lead me to finding the PULSe program at Purdue, which gave me a year of rotations where I could work in labs I found interesting and determine what area of neurobiology I wanted to join before I committed to it. When I interviewed with Dr. Cannon, I was immediately drawn to the research being done in his laboratory because it was something I could see myself doing and leading me to my goals of helping the people with neurodegenerative diseases. However, I still have found great resources in other laboratories I rotated in, working closely with Dr. Rochet’s lab in particular. The rotations also lead to me meeting many people I wouldn’t necessarily have worked with, which gives me a large network of colleagues to turn to when I am starting research that is outside of my skill set.

Training Group:

Integrative Neuroscience

Mentor / Lab:

Yuk Fai Leung

Specific Research Area / Project:

Drug Discovery for Retinitis Pigmentosa

About Me:

My experience at Purdue in the PULSe program has thus far been fulfilling. My cohort has formed a tight bond together over the years. I have had the opportunity to interact with and collaborate with a wide variety of students and researchers that has allowed me to develop a good network. Making new discoveries about zebrafish behavior in the lab has been very rewarding as well.

Training Group:

Computational and Systems Biology

Mentor / Lab:

Peristera Paschou

Contact Email:

guo658@purdue.edu

Specific Research Area / Project:

I'm working on genetic risk factor identification for complex human diseases involving the nervous system.

Why PULSe:

PULSe offers the flexibility for students to take courses and select advisors from different departments.

About Me:

Outside of the lab I enjoy sketching and bird watching.

Training Group:

Biomolecular Structure and Biophysics

Mentor / Lab:

John Tesmer

Contact Email:

hassan76@purdue.edu

Specific Research Area / Project:

My research currently focuses on determining the mechanism of adenylyl cyclase (AC) type V inhibition by G protein inhibitory alpha subunit through the structural analysis of their complex by Cryo-EM or X-ray crystallography. ACs are a group of enzymes that catalyze the conversion of ATP into cAMP that is one of the most important secondary messengers in the cell. To date, there are a few structures of full length AC, and none of them is currently displayed in complex with Gai. Our work will give insights to the mechanism of adenylyl cyclase inhibition, which can help develop new inhibitors to treat diseases that AC V is involved in including heart diseases and dyskinesia.

About Me:

In my free time, I love watching soccer, or football as we call it from where I come from. Also, I enjoy watching professional wrestling. It is also one of my favorite things to walk in the sunny weather. But above all, I love spending time with my family and watching my son grow up everyday.

Training Group:

Cancer Biology

Mentor / Lab:

Brittany Allen-Petersen

Contact Email:

farmerb@purdue.edu

Specific Research Area / Project:

My research focuses on how protein phosphatase dysregulation impacts lung cancer progression, metastasis, and therapeutic resistance.

About Me:

Outside of lab I enjoy spending time with my family and pets, traveling, hiking, and doing crafts such as crocheting and sewing!

Training Group:

Microbiology, Immunology and Infectious Diseases

Mentor / Lab:

Doug LaCount

Specific Research Area / Project:

Human-viral protein-protein interactions

About Me:

I like to think I that I was destined to be a Boilermaker. My dad and sister attended Purdue and after I learned of the PULSe program, I knew I wanted to be a Boilermaker, too. Being a part of the PULSe program has been a wonderful experience. Having the opportunity to rotate in labs all across campus and meet so many incredible colleagues with diverse expertise has helped me understand the empowerment that comes from being a part of the PULSe community. No matter what building I enter or seminar I attend, I am greeted with a familiar face. No matter what research challenge I encounter or what new skill I need to learn, I have someone on campus that can help. Having the friendships and professional support of the PULSe community has given me the encouragement I need as I continue my thesis research.

Training Group:

Biotechnology

Mentor / Lab:

Dr. Kevin Solomon

Specific Research Area / Project:

Engineering Anaerobic Fungi for Production of Secondary Metabolites

About Me:

When I began my undergraduate career, I was interested in joining the medical field as a physician. Once I was introduced to the lab research setting, however, I realized that I could have an equally impactful contribution to the medical field through my passion for biology and chemistry. My interests in microbiology introduced me to the concept of using microorganisms as miniature “chemical factories” that could produce a wide variety of compounds given the right genetic “wiring”. In addition to this concept, I became fascinated with the emerging understanding of the microbiome (the native community of microbes that continually live on and within us) and its effects on human health.

Over the past decade, the complexity of human-microbiome interactions has been a major focus of many research groups. Surprisingly, the microbiome has been found to have significant effects on immunity & disease susceptibility, hormonal balance, nutrition, and even behavior to name a few. When I came to Purdue, I decided that I wanted to pursue the challenge of merging these concepts: making native communities of “chemical factories” that could be exploited to improve health. The PULSe program has provided me exposure to several faculty and departments on campus that can provide me with the necessary tools and skills needed to acheive my goals. Because the PULSe program has faculty in many areas of life science research such as molecular microbiology, bioinformatics, and analytical chemistry, it not only allows me the opportunity to collaborate with experts on campus, but also to gain expertise in several interdisciplinary aspects myself.

Training Group:

Cancer Biology

Mentor / Lab:

Andrea Kasinski

Contact Email:

iyer101@purdue.edu

Specific Research Area / Project:

Having previously worked in the RNA therapeutics industry before pursuing graduate school, I recognized the critical barrier to advancing RNAs as cancer therapeutics lies in the absence of suitable delivery mechanisms. Now, during my doctoral training in microRNA delivery under the guidance of Dr. Andrea Kasinski, I'm dedicated to developing a targeted, vehicle-free approach to deliver a chemically modified miR-34a to cancer cells. My focus involves strategies to prolong circulation half-life, improve endosomal escape, and explore combinatorial approaches with standard-of-care therapies for clinical relevance. Ultimately, my goal is to make meaningful contributions that will positively impact the lives of cancer patients.

About Me:

I enjoy hiking and attending live music events. Additionally, I have a passion for amateur photography. These hobbies keep me balanced and enrich my life outside of the lab.

Training Group:

Biotechnology

Mentor / Lab:

Dr. Sarah Calve

Specific Research Area / Project:

Proteomic analysis of extracellular matrix dynamics during mouse forelimb development

About Me:

During my undergraduate career, I was trained as a physicist and mathematician; I loved the attention to detail and critical thinking skills that I learned through the classes and research. I always knew I wanted to do graduate level research, but high energy particle physics or theoretical mathematics did not appeal to me as much as biology or chemistry research. Being in a life sciences interdisciplinary graduate program has given me the chance to be a biochemist and a developmental biologist, while keeping my roots through engineering and biotechnology. I have always believed that health-driven research can only go so far in a single discipline, and learning to work across multiple disciplines is what drives cutting-edge research to push boundaries and make strides. Purdue's PULSe program has given me the opportunity to have the best of all worlds, which is more than I could ever ask for - Go Boilers!

Training Group:

Biomolecular Structure and Biophysics

Mentor / Lab:

Jonathan Schlebach

Contact Email:

ajhangia@purdue.edu

Specific Research Area / Project:

I explore the complex world of misfolded protein variants involved in rare and orphan diseases, like the mutations seen in cystic fibrosis. I plan to investigate how small molecules, known as pharmacochaperones, can help rescue these misfolded proteins, potentially improving disease prognosis.

About Me:

When not in the lab, I bike around West Lafayette's scenic lakes and parks. I also take time to go to trails, hikes, and stargazing. Other times, I play the flute and listen to songs.

Training Group:

Computational and Systems Biology

Mentor / Lab:

Priyanka Baloni

Contact Email:

jiang817@purdue.edu

Specific Research Area / Project:

My research focuses on building cell-type specific metabolic models of human colon and brain to explore their metabolic signatures in differetn conditions. I employ the method of genome-scale metabolic modeling and flux balance analysis to explore and predict changes in the flux distributions from single cell RNA sequencing and metabolomics data.

About Me:

When I am out of lab, I am interested in making food from different countries, and traveling, which can always refresh my mind.

Training Group:

Integrative Neuroscience

Mentor / Lab:

Maria Dadarlat

Contact Email:

liptonm@purdue.edu

Specific Research Area / Project:

The sense of proprioception, or the brain’s awareness of the body’s position in space, is critical for tasks involving complex, multi-limb movements. For example, we rely on proprioception when hiking on uneven terrain or playing an instrument. Recent studies have highlighted the role of the mouse primary somatosensory and motor cortices during proprioceptive movement of a single forelimb. However, it remains unclear how proprioception of multiple limbs is represented in the sensorimotor cortex. I am using a systems neuroscience approach to address this question. Through the use of mouse behavior, two-photon microscopy, electrophysiological recording, optogenetic tracing, and histological techniques, I aim to study the neural mechanisms of bimanual proprioceptive processing in the sensorimotor cortex.

Why PULSe:

I knew going into graduate school that I wanted my research focus to be in neuroscience, but I was unsure what specific type of research I wanted to do. I was drawn to PULSe because of the 1st year lab rotations. The rotations exposed me to a few different subfields of neuroscience in each lab and helped me decide ultimately which lab was the right choice for me. I really appreciated this experience because I didn’t have to choose a lab to spend my graduate studies in just based off minimal interactions with a PI. I was able to see the work I would be doing and develop a relationship with my PI during the rotation that helped me choose my current lab.

About Me:

When I am not running experiments in lab, I try to stay as active as I can. I enjoy going for hikes in my free time – Martell Forest has a pretty intense 7-mile loop that I hike when I’m feeling up for a challenge. I also like to weightlift and go for bike rides to stay active. When I want to do a more lowkey activity, I will lounge on the couch with my husband and dog and watch our favorite TV shows and movies. We also are self-described ice cream connoisseurs, so we like to visit the ice cream shops in town every once in awhile as well (and of course get a pup cup for our dog!).

Training Group:

Plant Biology

Mentor / Lab:

Sujith Puthiyaveetil

Specific Research Area / Project:

Photosynthetic Electron Transport/Phosphorylation in Photosystem II Repair Cycle

About Me:

I grew up on a rural farm in Michigan, so I had always been interested in plants and genetically modified crops. From that curiosity, I became interested in the genetic and molecular mechanisms that controlled plant growth and development, and went on to pursue my BS in Cell and Molecular Biology at Grand Valley State University. During my time at GVSU, I gained research experience in a plant research lab, and decided to further pursue a PhD in plant science.

My experience in PULSe has been great. The first year rotation program allowed me to explore my options at Purdue, and to gain a better understanding for the research opportunities and facilities available here. PULSe has allowed me to take a curriculum that matched my research interests, which has been really beneficial to my research progress. One of my favorite experiences has been the weekly departmental seminars, which are a good opportunity to hear interesting talks and learn about ongoing research in the department.

Ultimately, I would like to run my own research lab in the future. I enjoy doing independent research and would like to be in a position where I can make more independent research decisions in the future.

Training Group:

Chemical Biology

Mentor / Lab:

Dr. Jean Chmielewski

Specific Research Area / Project:

Mechanism of Action of the Synthetic Antimicrobial Peptide P14LRR

About Me:

I have been interested in science from a young age, but it took me awhile to settle on a specific area. From ecology to genetics and immunology to biochemistry, I have been able to gain career experience in several different disciplines, but it was not until recently that I realized that I wanted to the research that I felt would have the greatest chance of impacting people's lives. It was with that in mind that I chose to join my current lab where we design and test novel antibiotics.

The circumstances of my admission were rather unique and I ended up joining the PULSe program 1 month into the semester. Having missed orientation, the PULSe/OIGP staff were absolutely essential when I first joined, always willing to answer questions and help when I encountered difficulty in my lab. Even with this late start, the rest of my cohort welcomed me with open arms and I quickly made lifelong friends and enduring memories.

I am currently deciding between working at a small biotech startup company or for the government in a national lab. I am hoping to do a internship during my PhD to help me decide.

Training Group:

Biomolecular Structure and Biophysics

Mentor / Lab:

Dan Flaherty

Contact Email:

metcalf9@purdue.edu

Specific Research Area / Project:

My current project looks at how mutations in porins (PorB and PorA) and efflux pumps effect the rate of accumulation of carbonic anhydrase inhibitors in Neisseria gonorrhoeae. I am also looking at the effect CAIs have on the microbiome.

Why PULSe:

I wanted the opportunity to join a lab with interdiscinplinary research. PULSe gave me the opportunity to rotate in different labs in a variety of disciplines. I was looking to join a lab where I could use my biochemistry and microbiology background while doing research in a new discipline. I also liked the amount of collaborations that occur throughout Purdue and the PULSe community.

About Me:

When I am not in lab you can find me running on campus training for a full or half marathon. I enjoy hiking and various outdoor activities. I also enjoy spending time reading a good book and crocheting. I love to travel and do my best to plan a trip every year. I also enjoy attending music festivals and seeing some of my favorite artists

Training Group:

Chemical Biology

Mentor / Lab:

Herman Sintim

Contact Email:

imevaa@purdue.edu

Why PULSe:

I chose PULSe because my field of interest, drug discovery, is highly multidisciplinary. Therefore, selecting a program that enables me to learn about the drug discovery process from different angles was the best option. Rotating in labs from various departments helped me acquire a wide range of skills and made me discover techniques and methods from computational biology and cancer biology which I incorporate in my work.

About Me:

I have practiced baton twirling competitively for 15 years and I like to practice for fun every other week. I also enjoy reading, listening to podcasts, planning trips, and meeting with friends to play sports (I never say no to a friendly volleyball game), or board games.

Training Group:

Microbiology, Immunology and Infectious Diseases

Mentor / Lab:

Doug LaCount

Specific Research Area / Project:

Discovery and analysis of viral-human protein-protein interactions

About Me:

I originally became interested in scientific research in high school. As an undergraduate student, I was able to conduct research projects that solidified my interest in the life sciences. After reading about PULSe, I saw that the program matched my specific interests and immediately decided to apply.

PULSe has provided many professional and academic opportunities over the years that have greatly benefited my graduate school experience. Through the Science in Schools events, I can interact with kids and see their excitement as they complete experiments. I have also attended professional development workshops that I discovered through PULSe.

I would like to use my degree in a clinical research setting, either in industry or government. Pursuing a career involved in pharmaceuticals or biotechnology would let me be part of the drug development process. Many illnesses like CCHFV infection have no known therapies, and clinical research can test potential treatments.

Training Group:

Plant Biology

Mentor / Lab:

Sharon Kessler

Contact Email:

sogawa@purdue.edu

Specific Research Area / Project:

Plants need to perceive and respond to changes in their environment in order to survive. Calcium signaling is a signaling mechanism that is important for plant response to biotic and abiotic stressors as well as plays crucial roles in plant development and reproduction. I study the MILDEW RESISTANCE LOCUS O (MLO) family of calcium channels in Arabidopsis, which remains largely uncharacterized. My research includes characterizing MLO family members for their roles in root development and pollen tube reception. I was also awarded a USDA NIFA-AFRI Predoctoral Fellowship to investigate whether manipulating calcium signaling through altering expression or regulation of MLO family members can increase plant tolerance to salinity or drought stress.

About Me:

Outside of lab I like to spend time with my partner, friends, and my cat Asparagus. My favorite thing to do is to cook for other people and I enjoy having people over for dinner. I have many houseplants that I like to care for and in the summer I grow a small balcony garden. I also enjoy reading, baking sourdough, and crocheting in my free time.

Training Group:

Integrative Neuroscience

Mentor / Lab:

Dr Alex Chubykin

Specific Research Area / Project:

Neural Basis of Visual Change Detection

About Me:

I am a 4th year PULSe student in Integrative Neuroscience Training group. I graduated with BS in Biological Sciences from Nazarbayev University, Kazakhstan (KZ). I was told many times at Purdue that I am the first person they met from KZ. People usually ask about my home country and I always enjoy sharing my cultural experiences. I really like diversity at Purdue and an opportunity to experience so many different cultures. I enjoy talking to people from diverse backgrounds and learning how different, and at the same time similar, people are.

I also like interdisciplinary nature of my research. I have a wide variety of work to do including animal surgeries, behavioral studies, microcontrollers, programming, data analysis, reading and writing papers. This makes it hard to be bored by the work, which is important to keep going forward.

PULSe program is great for the same reasons as it accepts students from diverse cultural and academic backgrounds and allows them to have rotations in various departments. In my opinion, it is one of the major strengths of the program. I, personally, rotated in drug discovery, structural biology, cellular and systems neuroscience labs. Through this experience you really get to know graduate work style and most importantly understand what you like and what you are good at, discovering your inner self.

Training Group:

Computational and Systems Biology

Mentor / Lab:

Ankita Raturi

Contact Email:

jpeery@purdue.edu

Specific Research Area / Project:

In the Agricultural Informatics Lab (http://aginformaticslab.org/), I build open-source software and data analysis tools to improve resilience in agricultural systems.

About Me:

I enjoy playing ultimate frisbee, board games, and watching college basketball.

Training Group:

Plant Biology

Mentor / Lab:

John J. Couture

Specific Research Area / Project:

Using hyperspectral data to assess genetic variation in plant functional traits and responses to stress

About Me:

I am passionate about plant science. Following my passion, I decided to pursue my Ph.D. at Purdue University. I choose an interdisciplinary program at Purdue University because it was the best fit between the skills I would like to develop, and the opportunities Purdue offers. I am very proud of being a Boilermaker and very grateful for the opportunities I have here.

I am thrilled to be part of an interdisciplinary program. Among all the great programs PULSe offers, the ones I most enjoy are the applicant's reception and mentoring programs. I love to host applicants students and show them all the great resources Purdue offers. The mentoring program is an excellent idea. During my first year, my mentors were essential to my transitioning to Purdue, and it is always a unique opportunity to have senior students guiding you and exchanging experiences. I also had the chance to have a mentee during my second year, and I thoroughly enjoyed being part of his transition to Purdue and his scientific formation.

I identify as my career mission to make a positive impact on food security, throughout plant science and research commercialization. My goal is to apply and support novel technological techniques in precision agriculture to improve crop yield, seed quality, and reduce losses caused by abiotic and biotic stresses. After the completion of my Ph.D., my career goal is to join a research corporation, where I will be able to assist with improving crop production and technology commercialization.

Training Group:

Chromatin and Regulation of Gene Expression

Mentor / Lab:

Brittany Allen-Petersen

Contact Email:

cpfeffe@purdue.edu

Why PULSe:

I chose to attend PULSe because of the breadth of research in PULSe and the large number of faculty affiliated with PULSe- it allowed for a lot of flexibility and options.

About Me:

When not in lab, I love spending time with family and friends. I also enjoy running, and reading. Most days after lab, you can find me hanging out with my cat, Chrissy.

Training Group:

Integrative Neuroscience

Mentor / Lab:

Jean-Christophe Rochet

Contact Email:

qi110@purdue.edu

Why PULSe:

PULSe is an Interdisciplinary program which allows me to rotate in 4 labs in the first year. This is so nice if you are not an expert in biology and want to determine which field you'd like to spend the 5 year PhD study in.

About Me:

When outside of the lab, I enjoy hiking and eating good food!

Training Group:

Microbiology, Immunology and Infectious Diseases

Mentor / Lab:

Matthew Olson

Contact Email:

rodri660@purdue.edu

Why PULSe:

I chose Purdue University because the PULSe program offers an interdisciplinary approach to immunology and cancer biology, fostering collaboration across various departments. One feature that particularly attracted me is the first year of rotations, allowing us to conduct research in multiple departments, work with graduate students from different fields, and gain invaluable knowledge. This helps us choose the lab and project that we are most passionate about. Additionally, PULSe provides exceptional student support, exemplified by the Graduate Student Organization's mentoring program. The program also offers numerous seminars, panels, and workshops that help me explore various career paths and develop as an academic professional.

About Me:

Outside of the academy, I am a cat lover, my favorite plan is to spend time with my cats – Lucy and Lena! I also like artistic makeup and skating with friends.

Training Group:

Biomolecular Structure and Biophysics

Mentor / Lab:

Dr. Nicholas Noinaj

Specific Research Area / Project:

Structural and Functional Studies of β-barrel Assembly Machinery

About Me:

Started as a chemist, I grew more and more interested in life science, and that's why I joined Purdue. PULSe provides a good platform for me to begin my journey in life sciences, and allows me to transit without much pain since the rotating experience really prepares me for the lab I am joining now.

With my PhD degree earned, I see myself combining my chemistry and structural biology knowledge together, and working on infectious diseases in the future, which is a growing issue concerning human health.

Training Group:

Computational and Systems Biology

Mentor / Lab:

Qing Deng

Contact Email:

shao108@purdue.edu

Specific Research Area / Project:

Engineering neutrophils to express chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) and demonstrating their efficacy in combating tumors.

About Me:

I love playing badminton and fly-fishing.

Training Group:

Chromatin and Regulation of Gene Expression

Mentor / Lab:

Dr. Andrea Kasinski

Specific Research Area / Project:

Identifying functional circular RNAs (circRNAs) that modulate tumor progression

About Me:

Through my research experiences during undergraduate and masters degree, I was determined to pursue a career in academic research. The genetic and epigenetic underpinnings of human diseases motivated me to join the Chromatin and Regulation of Gene Expression training group in Purdue's Interdisciplinary Life Science (PULSe) program.

The PULSe program provides an unique advantage to rotate in laboratories from different departments at Purdue. I had the opportunity to rotate and gain experience in laboratories working in distinct fields such as epigenetics, neuroscience, bioinformatics and cancer biology affiliated with three different departments. Each of these experiences were unique and fabulous; allowing me to determine the best fit for pursuing research and training.

In the long run, I envision myself pursuing a career as an academic researcher.

Training Group:

Computational and Systems Biology

Mentor / Lab:

Karthik Sankaranarayanan

Contact Email:

ocostaal@purdue.edu

Specific Research Area / Project:

My research explores computational tools for planning of sustainable routes towards complex molecules. It also includes the experimental validation of those routes, leveraging metabolic engineering techniques.

Why PULSe:

I chose PULSe because it offers the opportunity for rotations in the first year. It has many departments involved, and numerous professors willing to accept rotation students regardless of their background. Because of this, I was able to explore various fields that interested me before deciding on a specific focus.

About Me:

I enjoy all types of art, including painting, drawing, and ceramics. I also love playing games, whether board games or video games, and traveling whenever I get the chance.

Training Group:

Integrative Neuroscience

Mentor / Lab:

Jennifer Freeman/ Freeman Lab

Specific Research Area / Project:

Developmental toxicology. Defining developmental toxicity of the agricultural herbicide atrazine in the exposed and subsequent generations using zebrafish

About Me:

I am a first generation American and my family grew up struggling financially in the Caribbean. My mom was the first person in my family to get an undergraduate degree. Although her family didn't have the finances for her to pursue her dream of becoming a medical doctor, she was lucky to have a chance at an education and was able to provide some financial stability for her family. My parents wanted me to have more options for a successful life, so they moved to America. In the process of moving to America, my mom's degree did not transfer, and she was devastated. Despite the obstacles, she worked multiple jobs and enrolled full time at Florida International University, while juggling responsibilities as a mother and wife, to re-earn her degree in America. She went on to earn her Master's degree too. Understanding my family and community's lived experiences struggling with basic needs, finances, and educational opportunities gave me a unique, powerful perspective on opportunities provided by education that many in my community never had or even dreamed were possible. Following in my mom's footsteps, I decided to an pursue upper level education in toxicology at Purdue so I would have the privilege of being the first person in my family to obtain a PhD in a field of my own choosing.

It was a tough transition honestly, leaving my community in South Florida and transitioning to graduate school, but my family had experience adapting to change, so I found a community of people to rely on here in Greater Lafayette as my support system. PULSe provided me a cohort to bond and transition through the different stages of graduate school, and rotations allowed me to choose a field I felt best suited me.

I would first like to work in industry, then transition to working in government. Although I currently do not see myself in the traditional tenure track position in academia, I hope to educate in the form of community outreach and establishing connections with communities in need to resources for a better life through education no matter the position I work at.

Training Group:

Integrative Neuroscience

Mentor / Lab:

Alexander Chubykin

Specific Research Area / Project:

Visual processing and learning in health and disease

About Me:

Like most people, I was not clear about what I wanted to do during my undergraduate, but I knew doing research is not painful for me. My undergraduate research experience in different areas of neuroscience made me realize the complexity of the nervous system, and made me wanted to continue knowing more about it, so I am here in PULSe.

PULSe offers the opportunities to rotate in different departments and research areas, and nurtures collaborative research across the campus. I found it quite interesting that in multiple interdisciplinary poster events, talking to people with backgrounds in molecular and cellular neuroscience, biomedical engineering, ecology, and even cancer biology could lead to conversations involving shared research interests, which has made me more exploratory when doing collaborative research.

Being in academia is a fun career choice to me, and it is challenging at the same time. I would love to contribute to advancing science, optimally as a faculty.

Training Group:

Membrane Biology

Mentor / Lab:

Christine Hrycyna

Specific Research Area / Project:

Mapping of the Ste24 Binding Site

About Me:

All through my undergrad career I knew I wanted to get my PhD. At the time I really wanted to do research in infectious diseases. When it came down to it though, I liked the idea of the Purdue Life Sciences interdisciplinary program (PULSe) to be a great option for me because it allowed me to try several different areas of research. That was what helped me make my final decision to attend Purdue for graduate school, and while I don’t currently work with infectious diseases, I think the research I am doing is quite rewarding.

Training Group:

Molecular Signaling and Cancer Biology

Mentor / Lab:

Dr. Brittany Allen-Petersen

Specific Research Area / Project:

The role of PP2A-B56a in acinar-to-ductal metaplasia and initiation of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma

About Me:

One of the reasons I chose to pursue my studies at Purdue University is because the PULSe program allowed me to pursue Cancer Biology in an interdisciplinary way with collaboration across many departments. The PULSe program also has fairly small cohorts, allowing the experience of a small program at a large R1 research institution and Big Ten university!

The PULSe program has always catered to students needs, providing direction and support whenever needed. For example, the PULSe Graduate Student Organization (GSO) matches incoming students with older mentors to provide advice and aid in the transition into graduate school. I was so grateful for this program that I took the initiative to help run the First Year Mentoring program for the GSO for the following years. This mentoring program allows help from older students in addition to networking throughout departments and interdisciplinary perspectives on research.

I am currently still exploring what I would like to do with my degree and leaving my options open to explore. IGP and PULSe program continues to provide information I need to make an educated decision by frequently holds seminars, panels, and workshops pertaining to industry positions, academia, and non-canonical careers. For now, the training that I am receiving from my advisor, my committee, and the PULSe program in IGP are setting me up to ask important biological questions and approach them in innovative ways for a multitude of options after graduation.

Training Group:

Cancer Biology

Mentor / Lab:

Matthew Scarpelli

Contact Email:

jveenst@purdue.edu

Specific Research Area / Project:

My current research focus centers around repurposing an FDA-approved iron nanoparticle for the treatment of brain cancers. Using cell culture and mouse models, we assess the ability of this drug to kill cancer cells, elicit an immune response, and provide overall survival benefits.

About Me:

When I am not in the lab, I love to spend time outside! I enjoy hiking, running, and other activities. I also like to cook and binge watch TV shows.

Training Group:

Integrative Neuroscience

Mentor / Lab:

Talavage/Shi/Rispoli

Specific Research Area / Project:

Investigating and understanding metabolic dysfunction in contact sports athletes

About Me:

Upon completion of my undergraduate degree in neurobiology, I assumed I would go to medical school. However, while working in a hospital during my gap year, I decided this was NOT the path I wanted to take. After a minor quarter life crisis, I decided to follow in my great-uncles' footsteps (they are amazing scientists!) and apply to neuroscience PhD programs. I was sold as soon as I visited Purdue as an applicant into the PULSe program. I met amazing faculty and graduate students, and loved the progressive interdisciplinary nature of the program. After rotating my first year, I decided to work with 3 out of the 4 faculty members. This, alone, has been an amazing experience as I am doing research across multiple departments, working with numerous graduate students in different fields, and have learned more than I ever thought possible!

Training Group:

Biomolecular Structure and Biophysics

Mentor / Lab:

Dr. Nicholas Noinaj

Specific Research Area / Project:

Structural and Functional Studies of Lactoferrin Binding Proteins from Neisseria

About Me:

I joined PULSe program in August 2016 and have enjoyed every single day at Purdue University. To me, the most interesting aspect of PULSe program was to rotate in different labs prior to joining a permanent lab. Taking full advantage of this opportunity, I rotated in labs working on various aspects of biological science research covering virology, cell culture, bacterial pathogenesis, X-ray crystallography and cryo-electron microscopy. Eventually, I joined Dr. Nicholas Noinaj’s lab where we utilize a multi-disciplinary approach to study outer membrane proteins of Gram-negative bacteria. Along with excellent research environment, PULSe program also provides a platform to interact with kids and motivate them to pursue a career in research. I volunteered at various events like Science in School (SiS) and Spring Fest. One of my favorite memories from these events was to create lava lamps at Spring Fest which excited the kids and parents alike. I am looking forward to my next few years at Purdue University and am excited about what new experiments I may get to perform at the SiS events.