Julien Goldstick

Mary Gates Research Scholar, Winter 2022

RESEARCH

Research Project: Investigating the interaction between mTOR and mitochondrial dynamics during hypoxia.

Research Project Description: The goal is to prove a novel fundamental link between mitochondrial dynamics and a major regulator kinase (mTOR) during a period of no oxygen. To investigate this, I will measure hypoxic sensitivity, hypoxia-induced mitochondrial fission and fusion, hypoxia-induced mitochondrial protein aggregates, and the mitochondrial unfolded protein response.

What have you learned throughout your research project and experience?

Participating in the lab has showed me I want a career in research, because it provides me with an environment where I am continuously learning, being challenged, and contributing to the plethora of scientific knowledge. Biological research experience led me to become an Applied and Computational Mathematical Science in the Biological and Life Sciences (ACMS BLS) on top of my Biochemistry Degree. Biological lab work on how to conduct, analyze, and model genomic research that more broadly apply to my ACMS BLS major and my medicine track. In addition, I am applying techniques I have learned in my classes at UW; in Statistics 390 I learned R and now use it to graph and analyze experimental data. Most importantly research is a marathon not a sprint.

What advice do you have for future Mary Gates Leadership applicants?

The only way to get better is to practice. Part of that practice is failing. Make sure that you fail quickly, and practice to not repeat those failures.