- Area of Study General Biology
Class Year
Class of 2027
Where are you from?
Boston, MA
What is your favorite Biology or BMB course?
This is a really tough question! I’ve enjoyed most of the Biology courses I’ve taken at BU! If I had to choose, I’d say BI 203 with Dr. Uwe Beffert. The course not only covered core principles of cell biology but also introduced essential research techniques such as RT-qPCR, immunoprecipitation, and Western blotting.
Although BI 203 was content-heavy, its organized structure and abundant resources made the material manageable and very rewarding. Taking it during my sophomore fall gave me a strong foundation that I’ve carried into other challenging courses like Organic Chemistry and Systems Physiology. Even now, I frequently revisit my BI 203 notes while working in the lab – what started as a small notepad of study materials has grown into one of my most valuable research resources.
I’m also especially grateful to Dr. Beffert, who not only amplified my passion for research through BI 203 but also sponsored multiple semesters of Research-for-Credit, allowing me to dedicate more time to my work in the lab.
What kind of research have you done?
During my first year at Dr. Andreea Bujor’s lab at the Arthritis & Autoimmune Diseases Center, Boston University School of Medicine, I investigated how the downregulation of AK5 and PTK7 in monocyte-derived macrophages contributes to cardiac fibrosis in systemic sclerosis (SSc). My work includes:
– Performing bioinformatic analyses of publicly available single-cell RNA-seq datasets
– Developing a macrophage-fibroblast co-culture model
– Conducting qPCR and Western blot assays to assess fibrotic gene and protein expression
This research provides new insights into macrophage–fibroblast signaling in SSc and may help inform future therapeutic strategies for autoimmune-driven cardiac disease. Beyond my own project, I’ve also collaborated with postdocs and Ph.D. students on their projects, which broadened my understanding of systemic sclerosis and related molecular mechanisms.
With the guidance of Dr. Bujor and her team, I’ve significantly grown as a researcher, strengthening both my technical skills and my ability to design, troubleshoot, and analyze experiments.
I am currently preparing a research poster that I will be presenting at both the Department of Medicine Evans Days Symposium and the UROP Symposium this fall.
How did you get your research position?
I started by reviewing research labs across both the CRC and MED campuses and narrowed my list to those working on autoimmune research and cell biology, areas I was most passionate about. After reading through each lab’s research focus and recent publications, I drafted personalized emails to PIs whose work aligned with my interests.
Through this process, I connected with Dr. Bujor and interviewed with her, which led to joining her lab at the start of my sophomore year. That opportunity marked the beginning of my BU research journey.
What extracurricular activities are you involved in?
Outside of research, I love jogging around Boston! A quick run along the Charles River or a relaxing trip to Jamaica Plain is my favorite way to unwind after a long week. When our schedules align, my friends and I sometimes organize late-night group jogs along the river to downtown Boston as a great way to stay connected with friends while staying active.
On campus, I enjoy exploring different roles and opportunities. I’ve worked at Warren Late Nite, served as a Learning Assistant for BI 108, and recently started as a Biology Peer Mentor. These positions have been some of the highlights of my BU experience and have given me a deeper sense of belonging within the BU community.
What is your favorite dining spot on or around campus?
Warren dining hall, for the nostalgia! Fresh stir-fry at Warren after Thursday afternoon General Chemistry exams became a weekly ritual for my study group during freshman year.
That said, GSU also deserves a special mention – it’s hard to beat the variety and convenience.
What is your favorite BU memory?
One of my favorite BU memories is my recurring study sessions at Mugar during sophomore year. My friends and I would camp out for hours preparing for BI 203 and CH 203 exams, quizzing each other on pathways and mechanisms, and grabbing food after Mugar closed. It was exhausting but also incredibly rewarding!
What’s one BU tip you wish you knew sooner?
Take advantage of BU’s resources early on!
For example, BUCK (BU Cycle Kitchen) helped me restore a secondhand bike I bought after sophomore year, making commuting between CRC and MED much easier.
I’ve also recently gotten back into photography, thanks to the free Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop access available to all BU students!
What are your post-graduation plans?
I plan to pursue a Ph.D. in molecular and cellular biology, with particular interest in molecular signaling and regulatory pathways. I hope to continue building my research skills while contributing to a deeper understanding of biological mechanisms and their roles in health and disease.