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Rebecca R

- Research Program Mentor

PhD candidate at Stanford University

Expertise

How to develop novel therapeutics for diseases; Molecular mechanisms behind diseases and cellular processes

Bio

Ever since I was young, I have been fascinated by the cellular mechanisms behind life. The idea that four nucleic acid (A, T, C, and G) encoded everything that happened in my body pushed me to pursue biology in college with a focus on research. Now, I am at grad school interested in studying molecular mechanisms (how proteins interact), focusing on the roles that RNA could play in the cell. I am also interested in the process of taking scientific findings from the lab and developing them into medicines that patients can benefit from and use. On a personal level, my favorite hobby is baking! I feel that the process of creating a cookie or cake is a lot like doing science, except the end result is a tasty baked good. I also love cats! My cat's name is Josie and I spend a lot of time playing with her when I'm taking breaks from work.

Project ideas

Project ideas are meant to help inspire student thinking about their own project. Students are in the driver seat of their research and are free to use any or none of the ideas shared by their mentors.

How can RNA be used to treat cancer?

Cancer is one of the biggest diseases in the US with thousands of people working to find cures. One class of new therapies uses RNA molecules to specifically target cancer cells. In this project, we will explore RNA therapies currently in use. We will then come up with a new target or approach for the use of an RNA therapy in treating cancer or another disease of your choice. Your findings can be summarized in a scientific paper or presentation.

Coding skills

Basic Python

Languages I know

French, intermediate

Teaching experience

Biology Student Advisor: Mentored freshmen at Cornell University in the biology major about the transition to college, class selection, time management, and finding research opportunities. Tutored for several courses as well. Comparative Anatomy TA: Provided individualized instruction for students in an introductory level comparative anatomy course. Developed and administered oral exams. Lead laboratory sections. Cell Biology Study Group Leader: Leaded study group sections that reviewed course work weekly for an introductory level cell biology course.

Credentials

Work experience

Washington University in St Louis (2019 - 2021)
Research Technician

Education

Cornell University
BA Bachelor of Arts (2019)
Biology
Stanford University
PhD Doctor of Philosophy candidate
Chemical and Systems Biology

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