Alexandra M
- Research Program Mentor
PhD at Dartmouth College
Expertise
Cancer biology, immunology, biotechnology, startups, venture capital, entrepreneurship, mental health, science-backed skincare, beauty & wellness
Bio
Hi, I'm Ali! I recently obtained my PhD in cancer biology & biotech innovation from Dartmouth. My research explored endogenous retroviruses in human cancers; this was ultimately a blend of cancer biology, immunology, epigenetics, & bioinformatics! Prior to Dartmouth, I worked in Boston conducting immunology research at the Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT & Harvard. I then spent several years in biotech, working at an immune oncology startup, Neon Therapeutics. At Neon, I was on the vaccine technology team developing neoantigen-based therapies for cancer. It was during this time that my interests in biotechnology, startups, & life science innovation really took root! Throughout my PhD, I remained actively involved in Dartmouth's entrepreneurial & startup ecosystem. Alongside my research, I worked at an early-stage human & animal health investment firm. Outside of work, I love to snowboard, listen to podcasts, & volunteer at local animal shelters! I remain passionate about all things related to animal welfare, mental health, wellness, skincare, & beauty science!Project ideas
Going viral: endogenous retroviruses in cancer & immunity
Did you know that 8% of our DNA is made up of viral sequences? Endogenous retroviruses (ERVs) are fossilized sequences of past retroviral infections that have become fixed in our genome. This project will explore basic questions around ERV expression and regulation in human health and disease.
It's all about presentation...
The ability to understand, interpret, and relay complex biology and experimental data to a target audience is invaluable. You will pick a scientific topic or research paper of interest and learn how to put together an effective seminar-style presentation. This project will provide you with the tools, skills, and confidence necessary to give an informative (and memorable!) presentation.
Have a startup idea? Interested in entrepreneurship? Let's pitch!
Do you have an idea, technology, or tool that you would like to see out in the world? Let's build out your startup plan and put together a 10-minute pitch deck!