Archive for category: Student Spotlight

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

Meet Alexa Garcia! Alexa is a fourth-year Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology major who wishes to pursue an MD degree and continue research in medical school and beyond. She is currently involved in the Undergraduate Research Scholars Program (URSP), a three-quarter scholarship program that supports students who are conducting a life science, physical science, or engineering research project with a UCLA faculty member. Alexa is currently conducting research in the Lipshutz Lab, where the primary research focus includes finding genetic therapies for metabolic disorders in the brain and liver in children.

1. How did you first get involved in your research project? Tell us a bit about the lab you are in and the research you are conducting (if possible)!

During my Freshman and Sophomore years, I had been involved in PEERS, the Program for Excellence in Education and Research in the Sciences. The PEERS program introduced me to BISEP (Biomedical Sciences Enrichment Program), which was met to teach and introduce us into basic laboratory skills as well as how to analyze papers. At the end of our program, we had the opportunity to interview with multiple labs in a mini interview format. I interviewed with Dr. Gerald Lipshutz and was very intrigued by the work his lab did, and so I contacted him and soon joined the lab!

In the Lipshutz Lab, the primary research focus includes finding genetic therapies for metabolic disorders in the brain and liver in children. I currently am researching an AAV gene therapy for SLC6A8 transporter protein deficiency in murine models. In the past, I have done research pertaining to a gene therapy for CPS1 deficiency, a hepatic enzyme. We primarily conduct wet lab assays such as Western blots, PCR, RT-qPCR, creatine assays, and immunohistochemistry staining.

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

My research experience at UCLA has been an extremely educational and valuable experience. I remember entering UCLA and knowing I wanted to get involved in research, but was never sure about the path I needed to take. Research has given me opportunities to apply the abstract concepts and experiments that I have learned about to real, scientific hypotheses. UCLA had also provided an environment that supports research at every avenue and truly gave me an opportunity to learn it from the very beginning. I began with learning PCR and assisting around the lab, before I received all of the required trainings. I then was able to learn and conduct assays of my own and assist with the SLC6A8 project.

3. What is your year and major?

I am entering my fourth year and my major is Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology.

4. What is one piece of advice you have for other students thinking about getting involved in research?

I advise others who are interested in research to look at department faculty websites and search for faculty that conduct research you may be interested in! It is always valuable to reach out and provide your information as they may be accepting undergraduate students in their lab. Even if you are not sure, reaching out and inquiring about their lab is a great step as it puts you out there and allows you to have discussions with labs.

5. What are your future career goals?

In the future, I wish to pursue an MD degree as well as continue research in medical school and beyond. I hope to practice in pediatrics and pursue research avenues catered towards clinical therapies for cerebral metabolic disorders.

6. Please list any URC/departmental programs you are/were involved in. How has your experience been in these programs?

I was first involved with the PEERS, Program for Excellence in Education and Research, during my Freshman and Sophomore years. Through this program, I received the CARE Fellows scholarship. I also was in the URSP, Undergraduate Research Scholars Program, during my Junior year and will also be in URSP for my Senior year.

7. What was the impact of undergraduate research on your career path?

My undergraduate research experience at UCLA has greatly influenced my career path. Research has taught me how to critically think and also understand different methods for achieving a specific hypotheses. It has given me valuable skills in conducting experiments and assays that are the basis for understanding clinical applications. While I do not do clinical research, it is fulfilling to know that someday these genetic treatments can be applied clinically. This has become a great source of inspiration when beginning research.

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

Meet Sasha Gladkikh! Sasha is a fourth-year Computational and Systems Biology major who plans to attend medical school to pursue a career as a physician-scientist. She is currently in the Undergraduate Research Fellows Program and will be joining the URC – Sciences Summer Program this summer. Sasha’s current research in the Lusis Laboratory investigates the protective role of microbiota-derived metabolites in abdominal aortic aneurysms. One piece of advice Sasha have for students interested in research is to “Start before you feel ready. It is completely normal to feel intimidated when stepping into a lab for the first time…that initial uncertainty is often where the most meaningful learning begins.” Read Sasha’s full interview below.

1. How did you first get involved in your research project? Tell us a bit about the lab you are in and the research you are currently conducting.
I joined the Lusis Laboratory at the David Geffen School of Medicine in my third year to pursue my interests in cardiology and bioinformatics. The Lusis Lab applies a systems genetics framework to investigate complex cardiovascular and metabolic disorders, including atherosclerosis, heart failure, and fatty liver disease, by integrating multi-omics data from both human cohorts and mouse models. Under the mentorship of Dr. Aldons J. Lusis and PhD candidate Jenny Cheng, my current research investigates the protective role of microbiota-derived metabolites in abdominal aortic aneurysms, a degenerative vascular condition that currently ranks as the 15th leading cause of death in the United States.

2. How would you describe your research experience at UCLA?
Transformative. I entered UCLA with no prior research experience and little guidance on how to begin. As the daughter of refugees, I was accustomed to navigating uncertainty independently, but stepping into research introduced a new world, one shaped by rigorous inquiry, collaborative problem-solving, and intellectual humility. Joining the Lusis Lab gave me the structure, mentorship, and environment I needed to grow. I learned to approach scientific questions with both curiosity and precision, to treat setbacks as essential to the learning process, and to recognize persistence as a critical part of progress. This experience sharpened my analytical skills, deepened my appreciation for discovery, and solidified my long-term commitment to research.

3. What is your year and major?
I am a fourth-year majoring in Computational and Systems Biology.

4. What is one piece of advice you have for other students thinking about getting involved in research?
Start before you feel ready. It is completely normal to feel intimidated when stepping into a lab for the first time; I certainly did. However, that initial uncertainty is often where the most meaningful learning begins. You do not need to have all the answers to contribute. What matters most is approaching research with curiosity, accepting feedback, and being willing to grow through trial and error. Ask thoughtful questions, take responsibility for your mistakes, and seek mentors who will challenge your thinking while supporting your development. With the right environment, you will not only strengthen your skills, but also grow into a confident and capable researcher, often in ways you could not have anticipated.

5. Have you attended a conference before? If so, can you describe your experience on preparation, presenting, etc.?
I attended the 2024 UCLA Cardiovascular Theme Symposium, a two-day conference that convenes leading researchers across disciplines to explore advances in cardiovascular metabolism, epigenetics, oncology, and therapeutic development. Although I did not present, attending keynote talks by physician-scientists, early-career investigators, and biomedical engineers deepened my understanding of the pressing questions shaping the field. Observing how researchers framed their findings and engaged their audience helped me think more intentionally about how to communicate science with clarity and purpose. The experience broadened my perspective and provided practical tools I will carry into future presentations of my own work.

6. Have you had your work published? Can you talk about what that process was like?
Yes, I have co-authored two publications:

● The impact of plakophilin-2 deficiency on the atrial myocardium: electrophysiological insights and therapeutic implications, The Journal of Physiology (2025). DOI: 10.1113/JP288315.

● Trimethylamine-N-oxide affects cell type-specific pathways and networks in mouse aorta to promote atherosclerotic plaque vulnerability, bioRxiv (2025). DOI: 10.1101/2025.02.25.640205.

The publishing process gave me a deeper appreciation for the full trajectory of scientific research, from hypothesis generation to public dissemination. I came to understand that impactful science is not only grounded in data, but also in how clearly and rigorously it is communicated. Each stage, from data interpretation to manuscript revision, pushed me to think critically, collaborate across disciplines, and refine the way I present complex ideas. Contributing to these studies strengthened my commitment to research and taught me that discovery becomes meaningful through precision, persistence, and shared purpose.

7. What are your future career goals?
I plan to attend medical school and pursue a career as a physician-scientist. My goal is to bridge clinical practice with bioinformatics-driven research, particularly in cardiology, to uncover novel mechanisms of disease. I hope to contribute to the development of more targeted, data-informed therapies that advance both patient outcomes and our broader understanding of human health.

8. Please list any URC/departmental programs you are/were involved in.
I am currently a scholar in the Undergraduate Research Fellows Program (URFP) and will participate in the URC–Sciences Summer Program this summer. URFP has played a pivotal role in shaping my development as a researcher by providing financial support and a thoughtfully structured environment for academic and professional growth. Through the RES PRC 103 seminar, taught by Dr. Jorge Avila, I strengthened my skills in science communication, research proposal writing, and graduate school preparation. One of the most impactful aspects of the program was engaging with a diverse cohort of undergraduate researchers across the life, physical, and engineering sciences. Learning from their perspectives encouraged me to approach my own work more critically and broadened my appreciation for interdisciplinary collaboration. Beyond the skills I gained, URFP gave me a lasting sense of connection to UCLA’s research community and reaffirmed my commitment to a career grounded in discovery and impact.

9. What was the impact of undergraduate research on your career path?
Undergraduate research has been foundational in shaping both my career goals and my sense of purpose. It affirmed my aspiration to become a physician-scientist, someone who not only delivers clinical care but also investigates the molecular mechanisms driving disease. Research taught me that science is not about having immediate answers, but about asking the right questions and approaching uncertainty with patience, creativity, and persistence. It pushed me to think more critically, embrace setbacks as part of the process, and recognize the value of sustained effort. Most importantly, it helped me discover how deeply I care about advancing knowledge in ways that ultimately improve patient lives.

 

 

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

Meet Mrinalini Mishra! Mrinalini is a fourth-year Neuroscience major who plans to become a physician, as well as continue her research focusing on neuroscience-related public health issues and associated health disparities. Mrinalini is a URFP scholar, and is currently conducting research around analyzing imaging data from acute stroke patients to see if early imaging can reveal the risk of developing post-stroke epilepsy as part of the Mazumder Lab. One piece of advice Mrinalini has for students thinking about getting involved in research is “…it never hurts to try emailing a potential research mentor if you truly are interested in their research!” Read Mrinalini’s full interview below.

 

1. How did you first get involved in your research project? Tell us a bit about the lab you are in and the research you are conducting.

I work in the Mazumder Lab, which is a clinical research lab focused on epilepsy and global health. I got involved in my specific research project at the start of this school year, though I have been a research assistant for my lab since my 2nd year here. My project centers around analyzing imaging data from acute stroke patients to see if early imaging can reveal the risk of developing post-stroke epilepsy.

 

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

My research experience at UCLA has been positive overall! During my first year, it was definitely challenging trying to figure out how to contact researchers at school. However, through a chance encounter after a neurology interest event, I was able to find my PI and have been with my lab ever since! I am glad I am part of the Mazumder Lab, especially because of the kind people who I get to work with, from my PI to my fellow research assistants. I enjoy going into the lab and getting to spend time with them!

 

3. What is your year and major?

4th year, neuroscience!

 

4. What is one piece of advice you have for other students thinking about getting involved in research?

I would say that it never hurts to try emailing a potential research mentor if you truly are interested in their research! If they don’t respond to you or tell you they don’t need research assistants, it’s ok. I would much rather live with a no than think about what could have been had I been brave enough to email them.

 

5. Have you attended a conference before? If so, can you describe your experience on preparation, presenting, etc.?

I have not attended a conference before, but I will be presenting my research at the neuroscience capstone poster day and the undergraduate research week symposium!

 

6. Have you had your work published? Can you talk about what that process was like?

As of yet, I have not had my work published. However, I might be able to begin work on a manuscript about my project once the school year ends!

 

7. What are your future career goals?

My future goal is to become a physician, but I do not want to give up research! My goal is to continue research in some capacity in the future, focusing on neuroscience-related public health issues and associated health disparities.

 

8. Please list any URC/departmental programs you are/were involved in.

I am not part of any other URC programs besides the URFP. I really value the URFP and my experience has been really impactful. On the first day of the research practicum class all URFP scholars must take, I got to hear about my peers’ research projects and I was amazed at how intelligent and hardworking they all are! Being surrounded by such incredible researchers has pushed me to put more work into my own research. I am also very grateful for Dr. Avila, who encourages all of us and makes himself available for all of our questions.

 

9. What was the impact of undergraduate research on your career path?

Research has solidified my desire to pursue medicine as a career. I want to be able to explore new ideas that can help patients and then actually be able to apply them in clinical practice as well. I also am interested in pursuing an MPH as well to learn more about public health as a whole.

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

Meet Kimberly Jorge! Kimberly is a third-year Human Biology and Society major with a minor in Chicana and Chicano studies. She has been involved with the URC – Sciences Summer Program, a 10-week program designed for undergraduate students to undertake research with a UCLA faculty and receive professional development through workshops and seminars. Through this program, Kimberly is now a California Alliance for Minority Participation (CAMP) scholar, which she credits for helping with her public speaking skills, as well as opening up doors for additional opportunities to present her research. Kimberly is currently preparing to present at the CAMP Scholars Symposium, and plans to become a pediatrician in the future! Read Kimberly’s full interview below.

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

I got involved with my research project/lab due to the PEERS (Program for Excellence in Education and Research in the Sciences). They held an event where we could meet potential faculty looking for undergrads and that was where I met my mentor, Dr. Hayes.

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

My research experience has been amazing. Admittedly, coming into UCLA I was very nervous to venture out and get involved in research as I had little exposure to what research consisted of. However, due to PEERs and my mentor, research has helped me gain confidence in skills consisting from lab skills to networking, etc. I’ve gained so much knowledge about the lung cancer field that I otherwise would not have been exposed to and am excited to continue learning these next couple of quarters.

3. What is your year and major?

I am a third-year HBS (Human Biology and Society) major with a minor in Chicana and Chicano studies

4. What is one piece of advice you have for other students thinking about getting involved in research?

Look at sites such as Handshake or ask around to learn about labs. Put yourself out there as scared as you may be. Most importantly, when interviewing or thinking about potentially joining a lab, ensure you will have a great mentor who can guide you and that the overall lab environment makes you feel comfortable as you will be around this environment a lot.

5. Have you attended a conference before? If so, can you describe your experience on preparation, presenting, etc.?

I have not yet presented at a conference and will be doing so soon. I will be attending the CAMP scholars symposium where I will present my current findings on a poster. I have been in the process of gathering materials and thankfully my mentor has been there to guide me along the way. She has helped me feel prepared by giving advice and feedback whenever needed. I have presented in smaller settings such as the URC-Sciences Summer Program where at the end of our 10-week session we presented on what we did during our 10 weeks in the lab. My mentor also has us present in our lab meetings to begin facilitating our public speaking skills.

6. Have you had your work published? Can you talk about what that process was like?

I have not had any work published yet.

7. What are your future career goals?

My future career goals are up in the air. I know I certainly want to become a pediatrician but am constantly going back and forth on if I would like to pursue a PHD/MD or just continue with my original plan of getting an MD.

8. Please list any URC/departmental programs you are/were involved in. How has your experience been as a CAMP Scholar?

This past summer I was involved with the URC-Sciences Summer Program which was a 10-week full-time program. This program helped me develop the skills I would need for this school year to begin independently working on my experiments/projects. Through this summer program, it is how I became a CAMP scholar. Overall being a CAMP scholar has tremendously helped in my public speaking skills due to the presentations we had during the program and during our research seminar. Not only has it helped my public speaking, but has opened the door to opportunities of presenting my own research which I otherwise probably would not have done. This current school year I am part of the Undergraduate Research Scholars Program where I can continue working in my lab and then present my work/submit a paper, helping me gain more skills in the research field.

9. What was the impact of undergraduate research on your career path?

It has led to me seeing the many different career paths I can take, and really hone in on what exactly I would like to see myself doing in the future. As of now, it’s created some confusion on what path I’d take, but I know this is all part of the process of figuring out what is best for me.

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

Meet Natalie Swerdlow! Natalie is a fourth-year Physiological Science major and Spanish minor, who plans on applying to medical school this upcoming cycle. She had previously co-authored a paper titled “Cell type and sex specific mitochondrial phenotypes in iPSC derived models of Alzheimer’s disease” and a review titled “Mitophagy and the Brain” during her involvement in the Wilkin’s lab at the University of Kansas. Read Natalie’s full interview below.

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

I had prior experience researching Alzheimer’s disease in a lab in my hometown at the University of Kansas and I knew that I wanted to continue work in the same field when transitioning to a research position as a student at UCLA. While exploring labs both within and outside UCLA, I broadened my search to find a project that truly resonated with me. This led me to the Koronyo Lab at Cedars-Sinai, and I started the summer after Sophomore year. The Koronyo Lab caught my attention because their research focuses on correlating brain pathology with changes in the retina. The therapeutic potential of this connection fascinated me and deepened my interest in joining the lab.

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

While there are many opportunities through UCLA, I’ve come to realize the potential in the surrounding areas as well. I’m especially grateful that I reached out to labs at Cedars-Sinai and ultimately joined the Koronyo Lab, especially since it’s so close to campus! Reflecting on my journey from when I first began research to where I am now, it’s clear how much I’ve grown and learned. It’s incredibly rewarding to work with such an amazing team, contributing to the advancement of our projects while continuously asking new questions to understand more about the field.

3. What is your year and major?

I am a fourth-year majoring in Physiological Science and minoring in Spanish.

4. What is one piece of advice you have for other students thinking about getting involved in research?

Research can feel overwhelming, especially in the beginning, with all the new knowledge and techniques to learn. One of the most important aspects of research is to keep asking questions. This can not only drive the advancement of existing projects but can inspire your own project. When conducting an experiment, take the time to understand the purpose behind each technique or procedure. This insight can help you determine what aspects might be replicated if successful or modified to explore alternative hypotheses. Another piece of advice is to be patient with your project and not become discouraged if you need more time to achieve results. Starting out can be difficult, but by asking questions and being patient with yourself, you’ll gradually build the skills and confidence needed to make meaningful contributions.

5. Have you attended a conference before? If so, can you describe your experience on preparation, presenting, etc.?

I am planning to attend a conference in May for The Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology (ARVO) to present on an ongoing project on bacterial infection and inflammation in Alzheimer’s Disease!

6. Have you had your work published? Can you talk about what that process was like?

I previously coauthored a paper titled “Cell type and sex specific mitochondrial phenotypes in iPSC derived models of Alzheimer’s disease” and a review titled “Mitophagy and the Brain” during my involvement in the Wilkin’s lab at the University of Kansas. I am currently working on a review about retinal inflammation in Alzheimer’s disease. The process can be long, however, I’m lucky to have worked with amazing lab members and a PI in both labs willing to help the editing process.

7. What are your future career goals?

I plan to apply to medical school this upcoming cycle! I want to stay involved in research throughout my medical career to continuously learn and grow in my field.

8. Please list any URC/departmental programs you are/were involved in.

I have completed Research Practice 99 during the school year as well as Research Practice 195 during the summer.

9. What was the impact of undergraduate research on your career path?  

Research has become a motivating factor in my pursuit towards becoming a physician. I’ve learned to ask sophisticated questions to acquire the knowledge needed to work independently on projects as well as communicate my findings. While some constraints in medicine are more obvious than others, research helps drive the advancement of medicine and potential to improve overall health and well-being on a broader scale. This makes me more excited for my career in medicine and commitment to lifelong learning.