Rami M
- Research Program Mentor
PhD at University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill (UNC Chapel Hill)
Expertise
Genetics, genome editing, molecular biology, neuroscience, bioethics, science policy, genetics in human health/medicine
Bio
I am interested in the intersection of science with many other areas of life: advocacy, ethics, policy, communication, and outreach. To best work at these intersections, I believe that a deep knowledge of science is incredibly helpful. This led me to pursue my PhD in Genetics and Molecular Biology. My current research interests involve using CRISPR Cas9/gene editing to treat rare genetic brain diseases and examining some of the ethical questions that arise when contemplating the use of gene editing in humans. Although research takes up most of my time, I am involved with a variety of science outreach, communication, and policy initiatives, and passionately believe that science should be for everyone. I love when students have their "lightbulb" moments!Project ideas
Exploring the potential for gene editing therapeutics in neurogenetic diseases
In this project, you would learn about various neurogenetic diseases, gene editing therapeutics, and current advancements in these fields. You will also learn how to critically analyze scientific papers. This would culminate in a review of the topic that could be submitted for publication to a scientific journal like the International Journal of High School Research.
Considering the ethics of gene editing: where we are and where it could go
If you've watched the movie GATTACA or read Brave New World, you've seen science fiction at work depicting alarming societies where gene editing controls social hierarchies and both physical and social outcomes. As CRISPR and other gene editing technologies become more commonplace, is this the world we are destined to create? Where should the line be drawn, and who should draw it? In this project, you will explore real-world gene editing cases and the ethical questions that could arise from their implementation. This could be presented in a series of blog posts, podcast episodes, or as a single speech.