GW-SOBS Student of the Month

DECEMBER

Pamela Chansky

(she/her/hers)

Program: Genomics & Bioinformatics

PIs: Dr. Wei Li & Dr. Cath Bollard

Why did you choose to pursue a PhD?

[PC] During undergrad I did some cancer research, but wasn’t sure what I wanted to do long-term, so, after graduating I joined a biotech company to get a better sense of what industry is like. It was a great way to learn about the different aspects of industry and all the teams involved in patient-centered technology. While I was there, I quickly realized that the specific parts of biotech that I was most interested in were in research-focused teams, and everyone on those teams had PhDs!

Tell us about your project!

[PC] My project is focused on using computational approaches to study patient response to virus-specific T cells (VST) therapy. This is a therapy for immunocompromised patients with viral infections and is utilized by clinicians at Children’s. Working with the Translational Research Lab in CCIR has given me the opportunity to use different machine and deep learning approaches to model VST therapy outcomes. I use a variety of clinical and sequencing data to better understand patient response in the hopes of improving future treatment planning for this patient population.

What are some skills (scientific or non-scientific) you have gained while in the program?

[PC] In terms of scientific skills, I’ve learned how to analyze a variety of sequencing data, including bulk and single-cell RNA and TCR data. The Li Lab is also involved in a lot of CRISPR work, so I’ve been able to get involved with CRISPR screening and how to analyze that data as well. 

What do you like to do outside of the lab?

[PC] Outside of lab I like to hike — in DC or within a short drive of the city — or run — the views and trails along the Potomac are great! Last spring, I ran my first ten miler at DC’s Cherry Blossom 10 Mile. Fall in the DMV is perfect for leaf-peeping in Rock Creek Park or out in Shenandoah. 

What are your favorite things to do in the DC/DMV area?

[PC] DC has been a fun spot to be a student because there are always lots of events going on. I’ve gotten to explore a lot of the city, from museums and memorials to comedy shows and restaurants, and after 2 years there is still more to experience. I love walking down to the National Mall for a picnic on rare warm winter days when it’s not too crowded. 

Any pets?

[PC] I’m currently raising a puppy for the Guide Dog Foundation— a four-month-old black lab named Electra, who hopes to become a guide dog one day. She loves to snuggle, and seeing a puppy grow is fun during the long PhD process. My first puppy, Seneca, joined me during my first year in the IBS program and is now a working girl! 

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Thank you, Pamela, for sharing!

If you would like to get in touch with Pamela you can contact her via email: chansky@gwu.edu