2021 Graduate Studies Entrance Award
Project title: Intracellular competition between coinfecting poxviruses
How would you describe your research project to someone without a scientific background?
My work focuses on how the molecular aspects of poxvirus replication impact the emergence of novel traits. I am trying to understand if two viruses can share genetic information when replicating in the same cell, and how this might affect the spread of a gene within a population of viruses.
What impact do you hope this project makes once completed?
I hope that my investigations can improve our understanding of poxvirus evolution. My work is using a pair of mutations that result in drug resistance as a model, so my project can also shed light on how drug resistance might spread among poxviruses.
How has the support from Li Ka Shing Institute of Virology helped you?
I think simply having a dedicated virology institute at the university is amazing. It’s brought so much great work to my attention. There weren’t many virologists at my previous institution. I’m enjoying learning from so many excellent researchers here.
What is it about your field of study that speaks to you?
I think viruses are fascinating machines. It’s amazing that such a small particle of biomolecules can completely hijack human cells. There is so much that viruses can do - both good and bad - that are seemingly impossible. I think this provides endless opportunities for asking interesting questions and makes the work very compelling.
What's been the best part of your research experience so far?
The best part of my research experience has been learning new techniques. My project is exposing me to many new methods, and I’m enjoying diversifying my skill set.
What is something your colleagues do not know about you?
I’m a multi-instrumentalist. I play the piano, trumpet, and guitar.
If you could live in any other time, when might that be?ng>
The future, when the pandemic is over.