Jesse Cochran

Jesse Cochran, Undergraduate student, Biology, Chemistry, and Biochemistry

Prevents heart failure


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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