LATINX HERITAGE MONTH

Meet Cristian Ponce, a third-year Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics major, minoring in Biomedical Research. The URC-Sciences was able to learn a bit about Cristian’s current research in Dr. Anthony Covarrubias’ lab and how his cultural background ties into what is he working towards today. Read more about Cristian below:

1. What are your pronouns?

He/him/his

2. What is your year and major?

I am a rising third-year student majoring in Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics and minoring in Biomedical Research.

3. In one sentence, what are you currently researching?

My current research aims at identifying genes associated with mitochondrial DNA production and how they can possibly serve as a novel target for treating age-related inflammation and diseases.

4. What research experience did you have before joining a lab at UCLA?

Absolutely none! One of my biggest insecurities when initially applying for lab positions was the fact that I had no understanding of practical research skills. But that’s the great thing about labs here at UCLA: they make sure to create a learning and collaborative environment that allows you to develop as a successful student researcher.

5. How did you first get involved in your current research project?

At first, it took a lot of reading to understand potential knowledge gaps I could address for my project. But then, after meetings with my mentors, I was guided to my first project, looking at a mitochondrial-bound enzyme necessary for DNA synthesis and how it can be targeted to attenuate markers of sterile inflammation.

6. How would you describe your research experience at UCLA?

It has been an amazing experience to participate in research at UCLA, especially in Dr. Anthony Covarrubias’s lab. The environment is welcoming, collaborative, and tight-knit. I’ve learned so much already and am super excited to see where my next two years at the lab will take me.

7. What are your future career goals?

Ultimately, my plan is to pursue a PhD and conduct research in aging and age-related diseases. I think it would be super neat to contribute to such a new and rapidly expanding field and support aging populations in increasing their quality of life.

8. Can you share a bit about how your experiences growing up and your cultural background has influenced your decisions on your academic and career journey?

Growing up in a Mexican household, right from a young age, I learned what it means to put in an honest day’s work and embrace resilience. This past summer was my first time constantly working on my project, and while there were plenty of ups and downs (mostly downs), I was motivated and driven towards my work. These were necessary and valuable experiences that demonstrated the difficulty but also the beauty behind biomedical research. So, going forward, I am even more motivated to conduct research and build a successful career in academia.

9. Do you have any advice that you would give to Latinx students who are thinking about pursing STEM or getting involved in research?

I would highly recommend that everyone reflect on their experiences and determine what fuels them to pursue STEM or become involved in research. Most of the time, research can be tedious, frustrating, and confusing. So, it takes a lot of motivation and resilience to become successful and create a lasting impression. But having that sense of drive, support, and vision can really make a difference.

10. Please list any URC/departmental programs/clubs you are involved in.

This past summer, I was fortunate to participate in the URC-Sciences Summer program under the direction of Dr. Jorge Avila. Going into this fall quarter, I will be participating in the Louis Stokes California Alliance for Minority Participation program funded by the NSF.