Samantha Shelton
Year Graduated: 
2014
Scientist, Virology
PureTech Health

Job description

My Ph.D. research focused on brain development, transcriptional differences between cells, and how Zika virus is able to infect certain cell types based on gene expression to cause microcephaly. I hope to use these skill sets in my new position as a scientist in the industry. I'll be working on gene therapy delivery systems that are cell type and tissue-specific using adenovirus. The goal is to help improve the quality of life for people suffering from diseases of the brain, immune system, and gut.

Why did you choose this program?

HSU is known for its fantastic Cellular/Molecular Biology program. HSU also has an amazing Psychology program where I could double major to best set myself up for my Neuroscience Ph.D.

How did this program prepare you for your job?

HSU provided me with outstanding undergraduate research experience. I was able to work in multiple labs in different areas of biology and psychology to learn hands-on laboratory practices and hone my scientific thinking.

What did you enjoy most about the program?

HSU attracts wonderful people and the community I found at HSU provided me with support and lifelong friendships.

What would you say to prospective students who are thinking about applying to this program?

Take advantage of the wonderful professors, research assistant opportunities, and take the time to soak up everything you learn because you will use more of it than you think.

Christian Brown, 2017 »
Graduate Teaching Assistant
University of South Florida, Integrative Biology

Casiana Gonzalez, 2018 »
Graduate Student Researcher
University of California, Davis

Vannia Peña, 2018 »
Public Health Laboratory Assistant II
Humboldt County

Samantha Shelton, 2014 »
Scientist, Virology
PureTech Health

Michael J. Boyle, 2003 »
Biologist. (PhD 2010, University of Hawaii at Manoa)
Smithsonian Institution


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