Computational Biology & Cancer Genomics

We study how genetic diversity shapes cancer — and how our one-size-fits-all reference genome falls short. Our work uses pangenome graphs and patient-derived data to uncover ancestry-specific cancer biomarkers and reduce disparities in precision medicine.

And with our recent cMEDA Seed Grant, we’re expanding into spatial transcriptomics to explore how the microbiome interacts with its host — bringing my scientific journey full circle.

MS Biostatistics Student

I am currently pursuing a Master’s in Biostatistics at Virginia Commonwealth University, building on my foundation in Biology and Chemistry from FSU. My early research focused on virology and microbiology along with homologous genes in Kaposi’s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV), sparking a deep interest in host-microbe interactions. Now, I’m excited to apply that interest to the data analytics side of research by learning about bioinformatics and spatial transcriptomics. As part of this lab, I’m looking at how bacterial presence spatially influences RNA expression in epithelial cells. This summer research is my first hands-on experience with Visium technology, spatial data analysis in R, and large genomic datasets which I’m eager to learn and develop. I hope to use this experience to prepare for a future industry where I can contribute research in my areas of interest:

• Spatial Transcriptomics
• Cancer Biology / Clinical Trials
• Microbiology Analysis
• Environmental Spatial Analysis

Outside of my studies, I enjoy dancing, hiking, travelings, and reading a good fantasy or sci-fi novel.

VCU Honors College MS Bioinformatics Student

I am currently an accelerated master’s student studying bioinformatics at VCU. What excites me most about the bioinformatics field is being able to apply data science practices to discover patterns that can ultimately be used to improve a patient’s health. Through this project I hope to gain more advanced knowledge of whole genome sequencing, particularly the role of reference genomes in developing specialized medical treatments.

MS Bioinformatics Student

My personal interests of science fiction, history, and all things nature, led me to pursue a BA in Geography, and while spending over two years with the U.S. Geological Survey, I earned a BSc in Bioinformatics from VCU. Now pursuing an MSc in Bioinformatics, I use an interdisciplinary background to combine geospatial remote-sensing knowledge with spatial transcriptomics.

MS Bioinformatics Student

I graduated as a Medical Laboratory Scientist and spent my first three years working in UVA’s Flow Cytometry Department, where I assisted in diagnosing hematological malignancies. This experience sparked my interest in the computational tools used for biomarker analysis, which inspired me to pursue my Master’s in Bioinformatics.

VCU Honors College MS Bioinformatics Student

I am passionate about using bioinformatics to create more precise and effective medicines to help personalize clinical procedures and improve outcomes. From this research experience, I hope to get better proficiency with both common and uncommon bioinformatics tools and experience with large-scale genomic workflows. It’s also a wonderful opportunity to work with others in this field and grow my perspective!

MS Bioinformatics Student

I am a second-year Bioinformatics Master’s student at Virginia Commonwealth University with a focus on spatial transcriptomics. My research explores the tumor microenvironment in human breast cancer using Visium HD data and R-based analysis pipelines. I hope to apply the computer science and clinical research experience I’ve gained and look forward to becoming proficient in R-based analytic pipelines. I’m excited to learn about the tricks and nuances of the analyses as a new member in the bioinformatics scene.

VCU Honors College BSc Bioinformatics Student

I am an undergraduate student at Virginia Commonwealth University, pursuing a B.S. in Bioinformatics, on the Pre-Medicine pathway. I believe that science and medicine go hand in hand—global crises can only be tackled through effective collaboration between researchers and healthcare professionals. Fueled by my personal experiences, I am interested in how the computational aspects of bioinformatics can be used for biomedical research as well as clinical applications. Specifically, I hope to investigate the genetic and molecular mechanisms of diseases such as cancer. As both an aspiring physician and scientist, I aim to merge my passions for medicine and research, to address global healthcare disparities, and advocate for underserved communities.