What brought you to the Stowers Institute?

I have been interested in being a part of the Institute since my undergraduate genomics course at the University of Central Missouri. During a long incubation in the lab, a discussion broke out about the best local biomedical research facilities, and the Stowers Institute was mentioned as one of the best institutes in the Midwest. After class, I went on a deep dive into learning more about the Institute. Between the fascinating research being done and the overall mission, I knew this was the place where I wanted to start my career. I then made it my goal to be a part of the Stowers Institute one day!

Why are you interested in your field of research?

I knew I wanted to work at the lab bench as I have always enjoyed the hands-on work and detail-oriented nature that comes with following an experimental protocol. But I was also fascinated with the role that genetics play in how we evolve, our overall health, and how subtle changes in the genome could make a lasting impact on an organism. I found that being a part of a Technology Center allows me to learn more about the genetics of different species while spending the majority of my time at the bench performing specific protocols. So, I get the best of both worlds!