Hi!I'm Grace, a first-year Cell Biology PhD student at New York Medical College (NYMC), in Valhalla, NY. As a researcher, I'm motivated by a deep-seated curiosity in what drives disease at the molecular level and how that understanding can be leveraged to design potential treatments. I plan to delve further into this academic area while completing my lab rotations at NYMC.I've built my strong academic foundation and passion for research by obtaining a Bachelor of Science from Drew University, received in May 2024. I majored in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and minored in Neuroscience, graduating as a member of Phi Beta Kappa, TriBeta, Gamma Sigma Epsilon, and Nu Rho Psi.As an undergraduate, I gained hands-on experience in molecular biology, genetics, synthetic biology, and biomedical engineering research, working on projects such as designing and testing novel DNA constructs, optimizing gene expression and regulation, and engineering bacterial biosensors. I have also developed skills in experimental design, data analysis, and scientific communication, presenting my research at multiple conferences and symposia.Furthermore, I am passionate about combatting underrepresentation in STEM and increasing accessibility in science, which is why I founded and led the Empowerment in STEM Club at Drew University, organizing workshops, events, and outreach programs to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in STEM fields. As I progress through my scientific career, I aim to dedicate my focus to mentorship, science communication, and DEI initiatives, in addition to my research.