Courtney S
- Research Program Mentor

MD/PhD candidate at Stanford University

Expertise

Genetics, biology, chemistry, medicine/human disease related projects, data science / coding in R unix or python

Bio

I'm currently a Genetics MD/PhD Candidate at Stanford. I'm currently investigating how common genetic variation affects the biochemistry in our bodies and how this can lead to phenotypic variation such as differences in blood pressure or susceptibility to complex diseases. For undergrad, I majored in Chemistry with a focus in biochemistry at Stanford University and conducted research about the role of the gut microbiome in lactose intolerance. In my free time, I enjoy tutoring, running and hiking new trails, and reading.

Project ideas

Project ideas are meant to help inspire student thinking about their own project. Students are in the driver seat of their research and are free to use any or none of the ideas shared by their mentors.

Elucidating Disease Mechanisms

One project idea is writing a review article synthesizing what is currently known about the genetic, epigenetic and environmental factors that contribute to the disease mechanism of the student's disease of interest. This would involve learning to search for and review scientific literature, develop creative hypotheses and integrate information from many sources. This could optionally involve an introductory coding component for data visualization and processing.

Coding skills

python, R, unix

Teaching experience

I've served as a private Chemistry tutor to a middle school student for the past 3 years. Before that I was a private math tutor for a middle school student for 8 months. I also started mentoring an undergrad in genetics research about 6 months ago. I also volunteered for a year as an ESL tutor for Upward Scholars. In addition, I have TA-ed a class at the graduate school level as well as a second year medical school class. I have also served as a Polygence mentor for over three years.