Q. What aspects of your MCB degree program best helped you prepare for your career?
A. My degree from UC Berkeley provided a strong foundation in molecular biology and data science. While the competitive academic environment challenged me, it also encouraged me to seek research opportunities that ultimately shaped my career. Pursuing research at Crystal Mackall's lab at Stanford University solidified my interest in cancer immunotherapies and artificial intelligence. My current research integrates high-dimensional single-cell and spatial transcriptomics to elucidate mechanisms of therapy resistance in engineered T cell immunotherapies for cancer and immune disorders. I also develop computational models to analyze primary patient samples, contributing to our understanding of therapeutic outcomes. In parallel, I am actively involved in clinical trials utilizing FDA-approved CAR T cell therapies to treat hematologic malignancies and solid tumors, bridging computational biology and clinical translation.
Q. How did you decide on your current career path?
A. My career path was shaped by a strong interest in the intersection of computational immunology and artificial intelligence. This passion drives my pursuit of a Ph.D., where I aim to uncover the cellular and molecular mechanisms of the immune system. By leveraging AI-driven approaches, I seek to advance our understanding of disease biology and develop innovative tools to address complex immunological disorders.
Q. Share your favorite Berkeley lunch place, coffee shop, landmark study spot...etc.
A. The computer station on the second floor of the DOE Chemistry Library was my go-to study spot. It provided a quiet and focused environment, perfect for diving into research and coursework.