• What is your degree program and expected graduation date? I am an undergraduate majoring in Biology, Chemistry, and Biochemistry. I will graduate in May 2019.

• Please describe your research: I study how aberrant metabolism and cellular signaling can lead to heart failure.

• In simple terms, why does this research matter? 2,300 American lives are lost daily from cardiovascular disease – an average of one death every 38 seconds. My work hopes to elucidate the molecular underpinnings of this disease and to develop treatment strategies for these models.

• How soon after starting at the University of Iowa were you able to participate in research? I began conducting research at the beginning of my second year at the University of Iowa.

• How has being involved in research made you more successful at the University of Iowa? Research has provided me with a more holistic perspective to both view and confront challenging and unfamiliar problems. Moreover, it has acquainted me with the appropriate methodology necessary to address these questions.

• What are your career goals and/or plans after graduation? I plan to apply for M.D./Ph.D. programs, so that I can eventually become a medical scientist, splitting my time between clinical practice and research.

• Faculty mentor/advisor: Dr. E Dale Abel

• Hometown: Newton, Iowa

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