Advisor: Emilyn Alejandro, PhD
Alejandro lab
Research: Investigating the interplay between O-GlcNAc and mTORC1 signaling in modulating autophagy-driven pancreatic beta cell function.
After graduating with B.S. in Biochemistry from University of Minnesota, I wanted to explore and further hone my skills in biomedical research, where I had found a home in Dr. Alejandro's lab in IBP department. Here, I became fascinated by the complexity of physiology at systemic level and was enamored by the lab's expertise and ability to study the molecular metabolism and signaling in pancreatic beta cells and their subsequent effects in whole-body glucose metabolism. This experience inspired me to further pursue PhD degree in physiology and investigate important biological signalings that affect the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes.