Isabel D
- Research Program Mentor
PhD candidate at Stanford University
Expertise
biology; ecology and evolution of infectious diseases; microbiology, virology, mathematical biology; social and political impacts of infectious disease
Bio
Hello! I am a Ph.D. candidate in the Microbiology and Immunology department at Stanford University. I am passionate about researching the impact of global change on infectious disease dynamics, specifically viral infection, evolution, and transmission. Outside of science, I am a huge soccer fan; my favorite teams are Tottenham Hotspurs (#COYS!), Austin FC (Vamos Verde!), Feyenoord, and the Netherlands (Hup Holland!).Project ideas
Choose your own adventure!
Your choice! We can brainstorm together to come up with your own topic, as broad or specific as you like, and we will work to learn more and create a fulfilling project. The goal is that you will learn how to ask and investigate good research questions, so you can continue to move forward as an successful independent researcher. Research topics are not limited to biology. Project outcomes are equally not limited—if you can dream it, you can do it!
Infectious Disease and Us
Infectious diseases include viral, bacterial, fungal, and parasitic pathogens around the world that can strongly impact our way of life. For example, over 600 million people have been infected by COVID-19 worldwide and the pandemic has completely altered how we interact with those around us—from sheltering in place when sick to wearing masks to avoid infection. You may choose any infectious disease of your choice and we will investigate what it is and effects it may have on our way of life. This project will include reading scientific papers from peer-reviewed journals and will culminate in a research paper similar to a scientific literature review. This project can be tailored for all students regardless of prior experience with science or research.
The Ecology of Viruses
How do our actions with the Earth affect viral dynamics? Can global warming really make pandemics more common? Designed for students with interdisciplinary interests, we will read scientific articles from peer-reviewed journals and discuss how changes with the Earth might affect a virus of your choice. You will then develop a research question you want to investigate and write and original research proposal. This project can be tailored for all students regardless of prior experience with science or research. Students with interests of applying to public or private agencies for fellowships/scholarships are welcomed, as well.
