Mentor: Balaji Manicassamy, PhD

Leadership: Treasurer, UIowa ASM Student Chapter, 2024-2026

Research focus: 

Severe respiratory viral infections such as influenza and SARS-CoV-2 can trigger excessive inflammatory responses that contribute to tissue damage and disease progression. Capicua (CIC) has emerged as an important regulator of antiviral and inflammatory gene expression. However, the pathways that regulate CIC during viral infections remain largely unknown. My research uses molecular biology and genetic approaches to define the cellular mechanisms that regulate CIC and identify pathways that influence its stability and function during infection. Ultimately, this work seeks to uncover mechanisms that could be targeted to reduce excessive immune responses while preserving effective antiviral immunity.

Honors/awards:

3rd Place for Visual Art Competition for Jakobsen Graduate Research Showcase 2026

The Iowa Pathway to Graduate Excellence Award