GW-SOBS Student of the Month

NOVEMBER

Sarah Tiufekchiev

(she/her/hers)

Program: Genomics & Bioinformatics

PI: Drs. James Novak and Jyoti Jaiswal

Why did you choose to pursue a PhD?

[ST] I was involved in Breast Cancer research starting my Freshman year of undergrad. I quickly realized I loved research and was encouraged by mentors to continue on the journey toward grad school. I’ve always been a science nerd, and as challenging as the program has been so far I can’t imagine doing anything else.

Tell us about your project!

[ST] I am still narrowing down my project, but it will be related to metabolic dysregulation in muscle disease and its impacts on cell fate and muscle regeneration. In the meantime, I am involved in several projects spanning cardiac and skeletal muscle in Duchenne muscular dystrophy and dysferlinophathy.

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

[ST] I’ve learned A LOT of soft skills and wet lab skills in my time here, but my favorite knowledge gained has been in computer science. I have become more proficient in programming in R, Python, and shell scripting, and it has given me access to a wide array of projects and avenues of research.

What are your plans after receiving your PhD? 

[ST] I would really like to be involved in scientific journalism, but I am keeping my options as I continue to learn.

What do you like to do outside of the lab?

[ST] On weekends I enjoy finding new spots to eat and playing games like darts and pool. I also really enjoy cooking and hosting friends.

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

[ST] I am a big fan of live music, so concerts or dining experiences with a band are my favorite!

Any pets?

[ST] No pets here in DC, but I love and miss my parents’ furry friends Crosby and Daisy in Ft Lauderdale FL.

---

Thank you, Sarah, for sharing!

You can find Sarah via email at tiufekchiev@gwu.edu