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Nicole L

- Research Program Mentor

PhD candidate at Dartmouth College

Expertise

Microbiology, Immunology

Bio

My name is Nicole and I’m in my 5th year in graduate school at Dartmouth College. I am a PhD candidate in the Molecular and Cellular Biology program and my thesis work is in the field of Microbiology and Immunology. More specifically, my project has been to create a mouse model to study lung infections with Burkholderia cenocepacia to be able to study its pathogenesis. Burkholderia cenocepacia is an opportunistic lung pathogen in cystic fibrosis and chronic granulomatous disease patients. I am using this model to understand the role of a toxin produced by Burkholderia cenocepacia in its virulence. Outside of my time in lab I enjoy spending time outdoors with my friends. I like to hike, camp, and ski. I played D3 collegiate volleyball so I also play recreationally indoors and outdoors.

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.

What makes cystic fibrosis patients susceptible to lung infections?

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disease that affects many organs but especially the lung. CF patients get frequent lung infections and lung disease is the most common cause of death. This project will explore the genetic link in CF patients and the susceptibility to lung infections.

Teaching experience

At my undergraduate institution I was a TA for organic chemistry for 2 years. In graduate school I've helped run a microbiology lab for medical students and mentored rotation students and a high school student one-on-one in lab.

Credentials

Work experience

JRS Pharma (2014 - 2015)
Quality Intern
Resolution Rx (2015 - 2015)
Pharmacy Intern

Education

Wells College
BS Bachelor of Science (2016)
Microbiology & Immunology
Dartmouth College
PhD Doctor of Philosophy candidate
Microbiology & Immunology

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