RNA Featured Researcher — Marissa Cloutier, Human Genetics
Marissa Cloutier
Ph.D. Candidate
Kalantry Lab
Department of Human Genetics
- Who/what brought you to science? I got hooked on science while taking a developmental biology course at Albion College. The following semester I began doing research with the professor who taught the course and I have been involved in science ever since!
- What are your research interests? I am interested in the epigenetic mechanisms that control early development. I find it fascinating that all the cells in our bodies have the same genome, yet can differentiate into such diverse structures that perform so many different functions.
- What do you hope is the outcome/impact of your research? I hope that my research can provide insights into how epigenetic silencing occurs. Developing a better understanding of these processes will allow us to develop new therapies to fight human disease.
- What advice would you give to students who’d like to get more involved in research? If you find something you’re interested in, don’t be afraid to ask about how to get more involved. Scientists are generally very excited to meet someone who is excited about their work!
- What profession other than your own would you like to attempt? I’ve always thought it would be fun to be a park ranger at a National Park!