The Rosalind Franklin Young Investigator Award, funded by the Gruber Foundation and administered by the Genetics Society of America, supports women in the first one to three years of an independent faculty position doing genetics research in human and non-human mammals and in non-mammalian organisms. This award is only granted every three years; three women receive $75,000 each, over a three-year period ($25,000 per year). 

In 2022, three recipients were recognized for their scientific creativity, originality, and leadership in making new scientific discoveries: Aude Bernheim, PhD, of Pasteur Institute; Kara McKinley, PhD, of Harvard University; and Viviane Slon, PhD, of Tel Aviv University. We chatted with them to see how the award impacted their research journeys and careers and to hear about their experiences as women in science and why these types of awards are essential. 

Aude Bernheim

Aude is a geneticist interested in how bacteria fight off their viruses and how these immune mechanisms are conserved across domains of life. She leads a lab at the Pasteur Institute where she employs a wide range of disciplines mixing bioinformatics and experimental approaches including genomics, phylogenetics, bacterial genetics, phase biology, and more to research these topics. 

Having taken an unconventional path to becoming a biologist, studying not only the life sciences but economics and public policy, as described in the blog post published in 2022, Aude is no stranger to trying new things and taking chances. Her curiosity ultimately led her to heading a lab focused on exploring the diversity of anti-phage systems at different scales, from molecular mechanisms to large-scale evolutionary trends. Receiving the Rosalind Franklin Young Investigator Award gave her the resources, recognition, and confidence to continue this work. She found the award a great boost for her career—the international recognition underscored the quality of her work, which allowed her to obtain additional funding to support her lab’s research and to establish herself as an expert on a national and international scale. True to her curious nature and passion for learning, Aude explained, “The funding allowed me to start risky projects that turned into major lines of research in the lab.” The lab used the funds to support activities like lab retreats and conferences that brought them closer together, which was key for improving communication and building trust, essential to conducting interdisciplinary research. 

On being a woman in the field, Aude shared, “Women were in the past, and still are, less credited for their science than men.” She explained that this and other obstacles systematically exclude women from scientific areas of research like genetics, but made a case for increasing diversity in the field saying, “Diversity of scientists is a major driver of scientific progress, as it is an incredible source of creativity and innovation. As such, we urgently need to support women to promote diversity.” 

Kara McKinley

Kara is an Assistant Professor of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology at Harvard University and a Freeman Hrabowski Scholar of the Howard Hughes Medical Institute. Her lab studies the biology of menstruation. She is also the founder of Leading Edge, which looks to improve gender diversity in biomedical research faculty. 

During her time studying cell division processes using live-cell microscopy and genetics and biochemistry techniques at the Whitehead Institute and Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Kara fell in love with microscopy. When she was able to start her own lab, she wanted to focus on that drive and was very excited, but also felt great uncertainty–Kara recalled, “During the first few years, I was constantly swinging between: ‘I get to pursue the science of my dreams!’ and ‘What if I can’t deliver?’” Like Aude, Kara wanted to take risks to do great research, and she feels this award allowed her to do so, “It gave me a boost to take risks and push forward bravely. Now we really are pursuing science beyond my wildest dreams!” 

Throughout her career, but especially since founding Leading Edge, Kara has spent time with many extraordinary scientists who are women and other marginalized genders. She said, “Scientific innovation and the scientific ecosystem are better with them in it.” while stressing the need to do all we can to build a scientific infrastructure and community that is worthy of these talented individuals who are currently rising through PhD and postdoc ranks. 

Viviane Slon

Viviane is the head of the Historical and Prehistorical Genetics Laboratory at the Dan David Center for Human Evolution and Biohistory in the Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, at Tel Aviv University. 

In the 2022 profile, Viviane shared that her interest in prehistoric humans actually started in early childhood. Having a similar and essential quality to Aude—deep curiosity—and being born in a family of readers, Viviane felt the need to go “beyond books” and learn through hands-on experience, opting to conduct physical anthropology research and actively participating in excavations. Being awarded the Rosalind Franklin Young Investigator Award allowed her to become an independent researcher and do the type of research that she is truly passionate about. “The recognition and financial support provided gave me the confidence to pursue a research path that has been a longstanding passion of mine–retracing the genetic history of the southern Levant through ancient DNA,” she explained. Viviane added that this type of research is challenging due to the difficulty of preserving ancient DNA in warm climates, which requires methodological advancements and extensive fieldwork. For this, you need teamwork, and this award allowed her to assemble a dedicated research group and establish fruitful collaborations nationally and internationally. “This support has been instrumental in advancing our research efforts and laying the groundwork for future discoveries,” she said as she expressed her gratitude. 

Further expounding on the importance of collaboration and championing women in science, like Kara, Viviane added that “supporting the development of women scientists in genetics is crucial because in addition to challenges inherent to an academic career, women often face additional societal pressures and obstacles.” Programs and awards like this one are key to building the confidence young women need to navigate the field and advance their careers. Over the past years, Viviane has felt incredibly fortunate to work with impressive and driven women scientists at all levels of their careers, as mentors, colleagues, and students. “The strength of women supporting, encouraging, and driving each other forward through challenges is a powerful force and, in my opinion, essential to nurture this network to ensure that future generations of women scientists can thrive,” she concluded. 

These three inspirational women in science used the Rosalind Franklin Young Investigator Award to take risks in their careers, knowing that trying new things and innovating is what often produces groundbreaking discoveries. They also used the award to build a culture of inclusivity, to stress the importance of supporting brilliant and creative women in science, and to build each other up to continue paving the way for other women scientists to do the same. 

GSA is pleased to announce the recipients of the DeLill Nasser Award for Professional Development in Genetics for Spring 2024! Given twice a year to graduate students and postdoctoral researchers, DeLill Nasser Awards support attendance at meetings and laboratory courses.

The award is named in honor of DeLill Nasser, a long-time GSA supporter and National Science Foundation Program Director in Eukaryotic Genetics. Nasser was regarded by some as the “patron saint of real genetics,” shaping the field through more than two decades of leadership. She was especially supportive of young scientists, people who were beginning their careers, and those trying to open new areas of genetic inquiry. For more about Nasser, please see the tribute from Scott Hawley, published in the August 2001 issue of GENETICS.

Anush Chiappino-Pepe
Harvard Medical School

I work at the interface of synthetic biology and computational biology, decoding and expanding genome functions to introduce new chemistries in cells.

Brenda Cabrera Mendoza
Yale University

I study the biological and genetic factors that contribute to suicide and addictions.

McKenna Feltes
Johns Hopkins University

My research aims to identify new genes involved in lipoprotein synthesis to better understand how genetics contribute to the development of dyslipidemia—a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease, which is the leading cause of death worldwide.

Leticia Magpali
Dalhousie University

My PhD research focuses on the evolution of acoustic genes and sounds of toothed whales.

Sylvia Durkin
University of California, Berkeley

My work focuses on how genetic changes and environmental conditions together contribute to thermally adaptive phenotypes in tropical and temperate house mice (Mus musculus domesticus).

Toheeb Oyerinde
University of Medical Sciences

I am studying how environmental exposure, specifically exposure to heavy metals, influences the genetics associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder using C. elegans as a model organism.

Ben Hopkins
University of California, Davis

My work seeks to understand how evolutionary change at the cell type level drives the evolution of organ function.

Darren Lam
Stanford University

I am studying the mechanisms and evolutionary reasoning behind microbial cell death programs.

Austin Daigle
University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill

I study how natural selection, demographic history, and genome architecture shape genetic variation in natural populations.

Ayawovi Selom Ametepe
University of Arkansas

My PhD project focuses mainly on investigating the functional importance of structural domains in the Drosophila Robo3 axon guidance receptor.

GSA, supported by the National Science Foundation, offered $97,500 in funding to help early career scientists attend the conference. The award covered travel, lodging, registration, and professional development costs for 50 early career researchers, as well as expenses to attend peer review training workshops, the Community, Connections, and Mentorship Lunch, and scientific writing workshops.  

We spoke to an NSF Rising Scientist about her experience at TAGC 2024 and how the scientific enterprise can be made more inclusive and equitable. Carolyn is a postdoctoral fellow at Indiana University Bloomington School of Public Health. She uses the Four-Core Genotype mouse model to investigate mediators of sex differences in allergic airway inflammation and elucidate mechanisms through which they carry out their effects.

Tell us a little about yourself. What made you choose science as a career path?  

Growing up in Nigeria, I observed many superstitions that sparked my curiosity about science and motivated me to seek scientific explanations. I remember the first time I learned about the autonomic nervous system in class—the lecturer explained why when someone yawns beside you, you immediately do the same. I was similarly fascinated to learn that rhesus incompatibility sometimes causes stillbirth. This was surprising because growing up, I had heard people attribute stillbirths to supernatural causes, and believed the same. These experiences propelled me to study human physiology. My interest in identifying problems and studying the mechanisms that help prevent or treat these problems led to my pursuit of a master’s degree in the same field. At the end of the program, I investigated the effect of staple food on human health. I was so excited about doing research that I obtained a PhD in human physiology. Being a Nigerian-trained scientist, my quest to know more and be able to impact my mentees made me start applying for postdoctoral training in the U.S. where I could access different resources to support my research.

How was your experience as an NSF Rising Scientist at #TAGC24? What did you enjoy most?

I am grateful to the Genetics Society of America for the opportunity to attend TAGC 2024. During one of my online searches for programs to help me achieve my goals, I came across the unique opportunities offered by GSA, a society I had never heard about. I sent in my application and to my greatest surprise, I was granted the award.  

Ever since I came to the U.S., I have always looked for opportunities to develop my career and to connect with experts in my field for mentoring (an aspect of my career that needs great attention). I often heard about the importance of networking, but as an introvert, it was something I struggled with. I could not just walk up to people and start a conversation even though I knew conferences were the best place to meet other great scientists. Thankfully, GSA made it so easy. The Society organized a networking program for all NSF Rising Scientists where I was able to easily network and discuss science with other researchers. Most importantly, I enjoyed the postdoc meetup session, where I met with other postdocs during this conference and learned about the amazing research they do. I also got in touch with potential collaborators and engaged with experts in the field for mentoring opportunities. Getting involved in GSA’s Professional Development Programs was an eye-opener to the different opportunities present within the Society that can help me in my career. I am thankful for the privilege GSA gave me to accomplish my dream at no cost by providing a scholarship that covered the conference expenses.

What has been your experience as a minoritized early career scientist in the field? How can the scientific enterprise be more welcoming of scientists from underrepresented or marginalized groups? 

My quest to know more and be able to impact my mentees made me start applying for postdoctoral training in the U.S. where I could access different technologies to support my research. I lost count of the rejection letters—I remember a professor asking me in one of the interviews, “Is there a stable electricity supply in Nigeria, how then do you do research?” Most people I contacted told me a Nigerian-trained scientist couldn’t get an appointment in the U.S. Others requested that I work pro-bono for one year to prove my worth because of my perceived background. I persevered for four years, developing and improving myself until I met my present mentor—it was the happiest day of my life! Eventually, I came to the U.S. in November 2021. In the laboratory, I was faced with imposter syndrome, which I quickly turned into my strength. I had to work hard to prove myself as a scientist, and this has helped me make huge progress in my career. As a result, today, I have won several awards, published six papers (four first-authored), won the postdoctoral challenge in grant writing in my school, and submitted my first NIH grant (K99/R00). Through diligence and perseverance, I was able to achieve these things which in turn helped improve my confidence as a minoritized early career scientist in the U.S.

I wish the scientific enterprise could be more welcoming for minoritized scientists by giving them the chance to express themselves without fear of being discriminated against. There is a need to believe in their abilities as a scientist, to help nurture them into being the best in what they do. I strongly believe that everyone has potential but opportunities differ. Another way to make the scientific enterprise more welcoming for scientists from underrepresented communities is to improve accessibility to resources that can aid their career development.

What are some key takeaways from your #TAGC24 experience that will both help your career trajectory and help you contribute to making the field more inclusive?

TAGC 2024 had a great, positive impact on my career trajectory, equipping me with confidence for the next step in my career. At the conference, I saw the importance of networking among scientists. I had the privilege of meeting experts in my field of respiratory system research, and got feedback that helped improve my research. Listening to all the presenters, especially those from IMGS, as well as the lecture on microbiome in health and diseases, helped me develop an excellent research idea for an NIH grant proposal. 

GSA’s Starter Culture Microgrant Program provides up to $2,000 in funding to GSA members to support  new, impactful initiatives that will benefit the genetics community. This volunteer-driven program includes a quarterly proposal review process by the Microgrant Review Committee. 

What is the committee looking for? 

We fund small projects that can make a big difference to the genetics community. We get particularly excited by applications that come up with new ideas for community outreach. 

A variety of projects can be funded, including summer camps, virtual presentations, and scientific workshops. However, a key aspect to consider is their impact: We look for evidence that the initiative will be transformative at some level, be it by engaging with broad and diverse audiences or underrepresented groups in science, or by fulfilling an unmet need in the community. 

We also like to ensure that, regardless of the applicant’s career stage, there is a solid connection between their background and the initiative they propose, such as a bioinformatics professor proposing a bioinformatics bootcamp. It is also important that we are convinced that the microgrant budget is both adequate and needed to deliver the initiative.

What type of projects are we looking for?

We do not want to limit your creativity, so we encourage you to apply with any amazing ideas you have! Just remember: Your project should clearly respond to a community need, have a broad and far-reaching impact, and benefit as many scientists and communities as possible. 

One of the main criteria we evaluate is the impact your initiative will have on your community and assurance the audience covers a breadth of research areas, geographic regions, institution types, and other elements that foster a wide range of knowledge and expertise.  . We want to see projects that fulfill a need in your community or benefit the community at large, such as genetics-focused STEM fairs or similar events that help expand access to genetics knowledge, or seminar series open to all early career scientists at your institution and across several institutions. 

We are also eager to fund projects in areas with limited access to science resources and communication. Seminar series, lecture workshops, hands-on training workshops in developing fields such as bioinformatics, and science communication initiatives are great ideas for your project, especially if these activities would not occur without  funding from this program.

What details are needed?

When preparing your Starter Culture Microgrant proposal it is essential that you include detailed, precise, and relevant information to effectively communicate the merits and feasibility of your project. Here’s a breakdown of what to include to make your proposal stand out:

1. Clear and specific objectives:

Begin with a well-defined statement of your project’s goals. Clarify what the project aims to achieve, the expected impact, and ensure these objectives are measurable, achievable, and relevant – this helps the committee understand your vision and the structured planning behind it.

2. Detailed project plan:

Provide an in-depth description of the activities and methodologies your project will employ and include a timeline with key milestones and phases. For example, if you’re proposing a symposium, list the topics to be covered, types of sessions (e.g., workshops, keynote speeches), and the format of each session. Describe the selection criteria for speakers and how the event will offer novel insights compared to existing symposia. For another example, if your project is about providing education or training to your community, explain the curriculum or content and teaching methods to be used.

3. Rationale and need:

Explain the significance of your project by highlighting the specific issues or gaps your project addresses and why it is timely. Your rationale should connect with the broader goals of the Starter Culture Microgrant Program, demonstrating alignment with program objectives.

4. Target audience and beneficiaries: 

Identify the direct beneficiaries of your project, provide detailed demographic information, and describe how the project meets their needs. Discuss the expected changes or benefits for this group, emphasizing the direct impact of your initiative.

5. Outcomes, impact measurement, and evaluation plan:

Detail expected outcomes and how you will measure the project’s impact. Include specific metrics or indicators, such as participant feedback, post-event surveys, or measurable changes in participant knowledge. This section demonstrates your commitment and the anticipated impact of your project.

6. Support and collaboration:

Mention any additional support, such as co-sponsorships, partnerships, or endorsements from relevant organizations. If you have received or are seeking other grants, specify how these support your current proposal and demonstrate broader validation of your project, and why this particular grant is also needed for your initiative.

7. Detailed budget justification:

Provide a line-item budget where every expense is justified in relation to project activities. If you’re requesting funds for materials, specify quantities, costs per unit, and total cost. For example, if updating educational materials, provide a breakdown of costs involved in updating each set of slides or resources. If the budget includes stipends or honoraria, explain the rationale behind the amount and the responsibilities covered by these payments. This transparency enhances your proposal’s credibility.

Sample budget:

Let’s say your project is a hybrid genome engineering symposia. Your budget should include a breakdown of supplies needed, speaker travel reimbursements, printed marketing materials, and other costs you might incur: 

• $500 – Snacks and refreshments for 100 in-person participants 
• $280 – Invited speaker’s travel reimbursement  
• $200 – Print cost of posters, banners, and fliers  
• $980 – Total requested funding

8. Sustainability or future directions:

If your project is part of a larger initiative, describe how it will have an impact beyond the funding period. Discuss plans for scaling, potential future funding, or integration into broader practices, showing the long-term vision beyond the grant period.

Once you’re ready, use the Starter Culture Microgrant Application checklist to develop your application for submission. We’re excited to see the innovative ideas you’ll bring to the genetics community. Submit your proposal today! 

We are thrilled to announce that the Genetics Society of America (GSA) is collaborating with the Personal Genetics Education & Dialogue (PGED)¹ based in the Department of Genetics at Harvard Medical School, and the Reclaiming STEM Institute (RSI) on a Leading Culture Change Through Professional Societies of Biology (BIO-LEAPS) grant from the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF). The two-year Design grant awarded to PGED’s home institution, Harvard Medical School, supports “Culture Change–Building a Relational and Inclusive Discipline through Genetics Engagement (CC-BRIDGE),” a capacity-building initiative that seeks to explore public engagement with science as a path for transformative culture change in the field of genetics. 

“As part of GSA’s mission to cultivate a community that creates and communicates the excitement and implications of discovery, CC-BRIDGE will help us better understand and develop ways to address issues our field faces surrounding public perception and a lack of trust in science and scientists. Through public engagement driven by this project, our members will be able to dialogue with each other and with the public more effectively, making our genetics community more inclusive, inviting, and better equipped to serve all,” says GSA President Mariana Federica Wolfner.   

Since 2020, GSA has collaborated with PGED to develop genetics-and-society programming through webinars, workshops, and other events. This grant will fund the development of a program that better equips scientists to effectively engage with their communities on topics of interest and relevance to genetics. Director of Programs at PGED Marnie Gelbart shares her enthusiasm, “PGED is thrilled to embark on this journey with GSA, RSI, and project advisors as we bring our collective expertise to explore the role of public engagement in cultivating a more inclusive and welcoming genetics culture.”  

Design Track projects funded by this grant support researchers in developing evidence-based approaches to culture change. Through webinars, workshops, and a symposium focused on historical and current social impacts of genetics research, CC-BRIDGE will pilot a reciprocal and inclusive public engagement program for scientists. Increasing evidence suggests that participation in science communication and outreach positively impacts the professional development and identity of scientists—which can in turn benefit scientific institutions and culture—while also building public understanding and positive perceptions of science. 

RSI Co-Executive Directors Evelyn Valdez-Ward and Robert Ulrich emphasize the importance of cultural transformation in genetics and its implications for those in STEM as well as broader societal impacts, saying, “Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) are shaped by the values of the dominant U.S. cultural norms… [and] success in STEM fields privileges these [norms]. Public engagement is an undervalued way to change these conventions. CC-BRIDGE could be a critical first step in helping change the culture of genetics as a whole.” 

This pilot program will draw on input from a multidisciplinary advisory group comprising experts in genetics and the broader life sciences with vast knowledge in inclusive public engagement, science communication, pedagogy, and professional development. The group represents various career stages, sectors, identities, and lived experiences, and includes representatives from other organizations like AAAG, AABA, ASTC, Alliance for Genomic Justice, Black In Genetics, CienciaPR, Gallaudet University, and SACNAS.² PGED Public Engagement Associate Rob O’Malley shares, “I’m particularly excited to co-develop new programming with GSA to support members in how they approach conversations on emerging issues in genetics with the public and with each other, and to highlight a wide range of voices and perspectives from beyond the discipline.”

We are excited to collaborate with our partners in these endeavors and we extend our gratitude to NSF for their generous support. GSA Executive Director Tracey DePellegrin underscores the importance of scientific societies like ours taking a leadership role in creating culture change in the sciences, “Given our broad impact and reach, it is incumbent upon GSA to provide a platform for members to share their lived experiences. Because these experiences actively shape how scientists conduct research and engage with others, by fostering an environment that amplifies their unique perspectives, we fuel progress both within and outside of our field.”

NSF awarded this grant under the BIO-LEAPS program, which leverages the reach of professional societies like GSA to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion in the biological sciences. CC-BRIDGE program activities started in April 2024.

1.  Formerly Personal Genetics Education Project ︎
2.  AAAG: American Association of Anthropological Genetics; AABA: American Association of Biological Anthropologists; ASTC: Association of Science and Technology Centers; CienciaPR: Ciencia Puerto Rico; SACNAS: Society for the Advancement Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science. ︎

Receiving the DeLill Nasser Award inspired Gosia to apply for faculty positions and ultimately secure her dream job. “[DeLill Nasser Award] was a turning point in my career,” she shares, as it encouraged her to “take the future of my career in my hands.” As a James F. Crow Early Career Researcher Award finalist, she presented a lecture at PEQG 2022, which along with networking, led her to immediately start her job application process upon return from the conference. Additionally, she considers the DeLill Nasser Award an important recognition of both her science and service to the community, particularly her research studying how biology is coded in the genome and how gene expression modulates phenotypical traits. 

It wasn’t smooth sailing though–it took Gosia several tries to receive this award, but the perseverance was well worth it! “I would like to encourage everyone to apply and apply consistently across years, it took me a couple of years and numerous applications, to finally make it happen,” she says. 

At TAGC 2024 this past March, Gosia expanded her network and paved the way to grow her involvement with GSA. Thanks to TAGC’s unique format, she found this large-scale conference with small-meeting interactions ideal. “I was particularly impressed by TAGC 2024 being a large meeting with a feeling of a small meeting,” she explains. “Also, the numerous opportunities to attend as a mentee as well as to serve as a mentor and network with the GSA Board were cherries on my years of involvement with GSA,” she adds. 

Gosia has participated in all of the opportunities GSA offers early career scientists, starting with the GSA Journals Peer Review Training Program, followed by the Early Career Leadership Program both as a subcommittee member and then as a co-chair and steering committee member. GSA has been one of her main scientific societies since she started her PhD and Gosia shares plans to continue paying it forward, supporting the next generation of scientists through her leadership and involvement with GSA. “It was particularly rewarding this TAGC to serve as a mentor and poster judge–to support young scientists, the bright future of science,” she shares.

If you’re a graduate student or postdoc interested in applying for the DeLill Nasser Award for Professional Development in Genetics for $1,000 to support your attendance at a conference or laboratory courses, learn more online and apply by May 9, 2024.

If you’re interested in exploring all the benefits of a GSA membership or to join, find additional details on our website.

“At any career stage, the GSA membership is an amazing investment for any genetics professional!”

Julio Molina Pineda is a PhD Candidate in Cell and Molecular Biology and a Research Assistant at the University of Arkansas, and a Doctoral Academy Fellow at the Lewis Lab. In 2023, Julio was awarded the DeLill Nasser Award for Professional Development in Genetics in recognition of his genetics research and work leveraging natural variation in yeast to understand why certain individuals are more susceptible to stress and disease, as well as his service and leadership in his community.

“GSA is one of the premier scientific organizations and being honored by receiving one of their most prestigious awards has not only helped me with starting to establish my record as a scientist, but it has also inspired me to keep working hard and reproducing more great science!” shares Julio, stressing how receiving this award marked an important event in his academic journey. This recognition is more than a financial award intended to support attending a conference or completing lab work—it signifies to Julio that he’s on the right path in his career. 

To apply for this award, you must be a GSA member. While many scientists may join for a discount on conference or abstract fees or to apply for a funding opportunity like the DeLill Nasser Award, Julio shares how maintaining a GSA membership has been essential for his professional growth. As a GSA member, he has enjoyed countless professional development opportunities, access to publish in the GSA Journals, GENETICS and G3, at a reduced fee, and one or two conference discounts. From being a member of the Early Career Leadership Program to participating in seminars, networking events, and GSA Conferences like The Allied Genetics Conference 2024, Julio says, “GSA has allowed me to broaden my horizons and learn much more about other careers and parts of the field I was not aware of.” 

At TAGC 2024, Julio had the opportunity to present his research, an impactful experience due to the feedback and encouragement he received from both senior scientists and fellow early career scientists. “When you are doing research, it can sometimes get lonely or obfuscating, but receiving clear feedback and learning that others appreciate your work and agree with your results and conclusions make all the hard work worth it!” He even met PIs and senior scientists who inspired him to keep working towards a career in academia. Julio also found that professional development activities at TAGC 2024 allowed him to grow his professional skills and create an amazing network of colleagues with similar goals. “Thanks to TAGC, I was able to learn and apply to a science policy fellowship as well as apply and get accepted to a scientific writing/preprint review program—so, I was able to broaden my horizons and take advantage of new opportunities that can transform into career options in the near future!” he shares. 

When it comes to his career trajectory and what the future holds, Julio recognizes that a GSA membership will always be a key piece. He emphasizes its value for all career stages, explaining that while it allows early career scientists to create amazing networks with great colleagues and grow professionally, you can continue to learn from others throughout your career and even teach or become a mentor. From receiving the DeLill Nasser Award, to participating at TAGC 2024, to being an ECLP member, who knows what the future holds for Julio? We’re certain of one thing: it looks bright! We might see him serve on a GSA committee or perhaps run in one of our elections and even join our Board! 

If you’re a graduate student or postdoc interested in applying for the DeLill Nasser Award for Professional Development in Genetics for $1,000 to support your attendance at a conference or laboratory courses, learn more online and apply by May 9, 2024.

If you’re interested in exploring all the benefits of a GSA membership, and joining, find additional details on our website. 

Advances in genome engineering are of broad interest (e.g., 2020 Nobel Prize in Chemistry); however, since they occur at a rapid pace, it’s difficult for scientists to stay up to date. Attending conferences is crucial for learning about cutting-edge advances, but accessibility barriers such as travel and registration costs exist. Additionally, while principal investigators are typically invited to give talks, the first author scientists who carry out the research are better suited to answer technical questions and would greatly benefit from presenting their work.

On November 30, 2023, Harvard Medical School hosted a hybrid symposium on recent advances in genome engineering, organized by three postdoctoral researchers: Justin Bosch, University of Utah; Joana Ferreira Da Silva, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School; and Raghuvir Viswanatha, Harvard Medical School. Sponsored by a GSA Starter Culture Microgrant, this event brought together Boston-area scientists and virtual attendees to update them on recent genome engineering tools, to give early career scientists and first authors an opportunity to present their research, and to make these talks available free of charge to a worldwide audience.

The symposium featured keynote speakers Benjamin Kleinstiver, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, and Julia Joung, Whitehead Institute, along with presentations from nine PhD students and postdocs on their recently published work. The symposium was highly successful with approximately 200 in-person attendees, 385 virtual attendees, and more than 800 views of the recording across the globe. Positive feedback from attendees focused on the lack of fees, availability of a recording for those in distant time zones, and advertising through GSA. Critical feedback centered on a perceived preference for in-person attendee questions over virtual.

This symposium was the culmination of five years of grassroots efforts by Boston-area scientists to stay on top of cutting-edge genome engineering techniques. Originally organized as an in-person journal club at Harvard Medical School, the virtual Genome Engineering Seminar Series (GESS) was created to mitigate COVID-19 social distancing policies. GESS is a free weekly seminar in which first authors present their recent paper or manuscript live over Zoom. Running since 2021, GESS has had more than 100 speakers and over 3,000 cumulative attendees from more than 51 countries.

Additionally, GESS provides leadership opportunities for early career scientists as seminar organizers. The program was initially established by Justin Bosch and Tracy Zhang, and the current GESS organizers are Ferreira Da Silva, Viswanatha, Hassan Bukhari, and Nouraiz Ahmed.

By hosting the symposium both in person and via Zoom, we eliminated most expenses typically associated with registration and travel for attendees. Given Boston’s concentration of groups involved in the development of genome engineering methods, it was practical to extend invitations to local experts to present in person. Therefore, our symposium format greatly reduces barriers for scientists to both present and attend. We hope to make this symposium an annual event with its hybrid format serving as a model for other research areas.

You can learn more about GSA’s Starter Culture Microgrant Program on the GSA website. Applications for microgrants are accepted on a quarterly basis.

To promote excellence in undergraduate research and education, GSA established the Undergraduate Travel Award, which supports travel costs for undergraduate members who are presenting at and attending a GSA conference.

Congratulations to the 2023 awardees!

Trace Ackley
Truman State University
I genetically modify roundworms to help us better understand the sperm maturation process.

Morgan Apolonio
University of California, Berkeley
I research the possible correlation between long intergenic non-coding RNA (lincRNA) and tocochromanol (Vitamin E) abundance in maize using Genome Wide Association Studies and Transcriptome Wide Association Studies.

Nkechinye Baadi
Colby College
My research focuses on studying the role of the gene MMS21 in DNA damage repair and response pathways in S. Cerevisiae.

CeOnna Battle
Christopher Newport University
My research examines the connection between gut health and the aging process of the muscles and the brain using D. melanogaster.

Dimitrios Bikas
University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
I interrogate the roles of KMT2C and KMT2D in chondrocyte differentiation and subsequent bone formation.

Joseph Butler
University of Western Ontario
My research pertains to genomic signature analysis using machine learning tools.

Jacqueline Cho
Brown University
My current research interests revolve around understanding how genetic variations impact sleep mechanisms and contribute to sleep disturbances. To explore this, I am employing the model organism C. elegans to investigate the role of GOA-1—a gene encoding a G-protein alpha(o) subunit involved in G-protein signaling complexes— in sleep.

Arthur (Araceli) Colunga
University of Massachusetts, Lowell
I examine phenotypes arising from epigenetic modifications in the model C. elegans using immunofluorescence assays.

Lydia Cruce
Grand Valley State University
The research I am involved with is determining the in vivo role of the AANATL-7 gene in histamine metabolism and effects on the male reproductive system in Drosophila.

Ismael Curiel
Elmhurst University
We assessed the development of the nerve ring in GFP tagged C. elegans by measuring the expression levels of ADM-4 after incubation at 28 degrees Celsius.

Jayden Cyrus
Duke University
This project explores the role of various proteins, like Draper and Spastin, in neurodegeneration.

Madeline Daniel
Lewis and Clark College
I study the pathways of formation of lysosome-related organelles in the developing C. elegans embryo.

Leah Ding
Austin College
The PGM2 gene in yeast helps manage sugar levels and calcium balance which is crucial for many biological functions. Without PGM2, cells grow slower and struggle with maintaining proper calcium levels. I am currently investigating a relatively unexplored gene, YDL206W, to see how it might be connected to these problems and whether it could teach us more about similar issues in humans.

Julinette Gines-Garcia
Goucher College
We are using zebrafish (Danio rerio) to study the cell cycle dynamics of Müller glial cells in retinal neuron regeneration.

Lexis Grandel
College of the Holy Cross
I am in an undergraduate research lab that uses fruit flies to study how glia, a cell type in the brain, modulate seizure susceptibility.

Rutuja Gupte
University of Wisconsin, Madison
I study the effects of mutations on the fitness of haploid and diploid yeast.

Reiley Heffern
University of Missouri, Columbia
I am currently investigating the genetic basis of learning and memory skills in D. melanogaster.

Tapasya Katta
University of Alabama, Birmingham
I am using yeast as a model organism to identify genes that play a role in the escape of mitochondrial DNA.

Iris Kazzi
West Chester University
I am currently exploring novel Intracellular Pathogen Response Triggers in C. elegans and analyzing the impact of ethanol on intestinal permeability and its implications for innate immunity in humans.

Eleanor Laufer
University of Oregon
My research investigates the evolutionary fitness of interacting genes which contribute to drug resistance in the model system C. elegans. We use novel genetic engineering and ultra large populations to track fitness over several generations.

Nicolas Lee
University of Oregon
I am characterizing mutations that affect the heat tolerance of proteins in C. elegans cells responsible for reproduction.

Siqi (April) Li
New York University
My project aims to generate cell-type-specific genetic tools to study Drosophila neuronal development in the optic lobe.

Cheung Li
Colby College
My research focuses on deciphering the genetic interactions between the C-terminus of MMS21 and RAD5, two genes vital to the DNA damage response and repair system of budding yeast.

Kayla Ly
University of California, Irvine
My research aims to discover novel genes contributing to transposable element-mediated heterochromatin formation in D. melanogaster.

Jennifer Madu
Emmanuel College
I am investigating GEF and GTPase function in the mitotic exit network in S. cerevisiae by further analyzing the impact mutated MEN proteins has on regulation and activation of growth

Sergio Moreira-Antepara
Cornell University
I use genetic approaches to study the regulation of body size and BMP signaling in C. elegans.

Mai Tien Nguyen
Colorado College
My research looks at the inventory of inner kinetochore proteins in budding yeasts, which are important for accurate chromosome segregation. This offers insights into the coevolution of centromeric DNA sequences and associated proteins, providing directions for future experimental work in the lab.

Mara Stout
Morehead State University
I am investigating linear versus circular chromosome structure during cellular division.

Mingyang Tang
Bryn Mawr College
My research strives to understand how changes in DNA chemistry affect gene expression, specifically the mechanisms responsible for establishing and maintaining these chemical modifications.

Erika Tsukamoto
University of Minnesota, Twin Cities
I am investigating the mechanism of maternal mRNA clearance during the oocyte-to-embryo transition in C. elegans.

Zoe Upham
San Jose State University
I am investigating how the cells that form the intestinal lining coordinate themselves to create a hollow tube capable of digestion, and I am specifically interested in understanding the roles of two highly conserved proteins, PAR-1/MARK and UBA-2/UBA2, in this process.

Peri Wivell
George Washington University
My research involves studying the role of macrophage populations during development and in diseases of the prostate.

GSA is pleased to announce the recipients of the DeLill Nasser Award for Professional Development in Genetics for Fall 2023! Given twice a year to graduate students and postdoctoral researchers, DeLill Nasser Awards support attendance at meetings and laboratory courses.

The award is named in honor of DeLill Nasser, a long-time GSA supporter and National Science Foundation Program Director in Eukaryotic Genetics. Nasser was regarded by some as the “patron saint of real genetics,” shaping the field through more than two decades of leadership. She was especially supportive of young scientists, people who were beginning their careers, and those trying to open new areas of genetic inquiry. For more about Nasser, please see the tribute from Scott Hawley, published in the August 2001 issue of GENETICS.

Mariana Harris
University of California, Los Angeles
My research focuses on quantifying the tempo and mode of adaptation in natural populations, highlighting the distinction in selection signatures (selective sweeps) between the X chromosome and autosomes, driven by the unique effect of selection on the hemizygous X chromosome in males.

Jennifer Alexander
University of Pennsylvania
My research seeks to understand the link between the aging process and cancer progression in high risk populations.

Renee Geck
University of Washington
I use yeast as a tool to understand how differences in genetic sequence can affect how people respond to pharmaceutical drugs.

Landen Gozashti
Harvard University
I use a combination of computational and statistical methods to interrogate the origins of genome architecture and the mechanisms driving genome structure evolution.

Bogdan Sieriebriennikov
New York University
I study how the nervous system evolves by comparing different insects.

Sarah Colon Plaza
University of Colorado
I study the non-apoptotic role of apoptotic caspases after Ionizing Radiation (IR) exposure.

Travis Tu’ifua
University of Utah
I study genetic interactions in a fruit fly model of a rare human disease called NGLY1 deficiency to understand the genes and pathways that modify disease symptoms.

Rachel Meade
Duke University
I study the interactions between Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacterium that causes tuberculosis, and genetically diverse mice to understand the genetic factors that control susceptibility to tuberculosis in a diverse human population.

Malek Elsayyid
University of Delaware
I use a C. elegans model and genetic techniques to study extracellular vesicles as a form of intercellular signaling in both homeostasis and disease.

Julio Molina Pineda
University of Arkansas
I leverage natural variation in yeast to understand why certain individuals are more susceptible to stress and disease.