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I have a broad range of research interests across the natural and physical sciences. I have a particular interest in integrating the fields of biological and computer sciences, but I've developed a curiosity for ecology and evolution. Additionally, I am interested in applied research, i.e. research that can be implemented for real-world use. I have worked the past three summers before college in Dr. Beverly Davidson’s lab at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia as a lab assistant. In addition to wet bench work and general lab work, I've also assisted a lab member in her study of the Fragile X Syndrome pre-mutation by rating the behavior of wildtype mice and mice with the pre-mutation. I am currently working in the Brisson research lab, studying the disease ecology and evolution of ticks and their associated pathogens (such as those causing Lyme Disease). The work includes going out into the field to collect ticks, identifying species and cataloging them, and general lab work. Outside of Penn academics, I am involved in the Biosphere program and Penn Appétit.

  • National Honor Society
  • Former lab assistant in the CHOP research lab of Dr. Beverly Davidson
Academic Major(s): Biology
Garrett Tishkoff Leach

My research interests lie at the intersection of biology and economics, and I am particularly focused on using economics to solve healthcare issues. I am conducting research in health economics under Dr. Jalpa Doshi at the Center for Health Incentives and Behavioral Economics (CHIBE), where I evaluate access barriers to oral anti-cancer medication for Chronic Myeloid Leukemia. In the past, I have conducted independent Drosophila research with the TRIP lab, where I investigated the effects of alumni compounds on fruit fly fertility. The following year, I served as a teaching assistant in the TRIP program, helping other students with their fruit fly research. Alongside my research, I’m a part of Penn Masti, a South Asian fusion dance team, the Daily Pennsylvanian’s Strategy & Promotions team, the Wharton Women MBA Mentorship Committee, and Wharton’s Agriculture Business Club.

  • UScholars Summer Research Training Grant
Academic Major(s): Biology, Economics
Anoosha Shukla

I am interested in research at the intersection of computer science and pediatric disease and have spent my first year at Penn exploring both fields. This summer, I have been primarily working as a wet lab research assistant in the Wolpaw Lab at CHOP, in which I help create and assess 3D models for neuroblastoma. I am also part of the Shen Lab, where I have been exploring the use of AI for computational drug discovery. I am excited to merge the skills I gain from both experiences in my own independent project.


Outside of research, I am part of a variety of student organizations, including the Asian Pacific American Pre-Medical Student Association, Service Link, the Brain Exercise Initiative, and Penn Chamber. I am also a College Peer Advisor and love meeting new people and talking to them about research!

Academic Major(s): Biology, Biochemistry
Megan Xie

My research interests are in the intersection of Design and Biology. I am fascinated by how we can use design to improve or solve different biological problems. I am also curious about how different patterns in nature help shape the world of design, whether based on function or aesthetics. I have worked under Dr. Laia Mogas-Soldevila at DumoLabs Research since my sophomore year at Penn. This past summer I conducted research on Mycelium and its functionality. We have tested our creative approaches in the realm of Mycelium-Based Composites by using 3D printing. I am currently still working on this project and exploring more of Mycelium’s acoustic protective qualities. Outside of academics, I am involved in a business and cultural club called SEAC, where I help in member engagement and professional development.

  • Mayor's Scholar
  • Research Assistant to Dr. Laia Mogas-Soldevila at DumoLabs Research
  • College mentor for SEA 2 Uni that helps high school students through the college application process
  • PMG Group Lead
Academic Major(s): Biology
Myrna Ho
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