Layla
Gusa
Hometown: Durham, NC
Major: Quantitative Biology
Research Interest: Applying computational skills to aid in biological analysis
“Working at the intersection of life and computational sciences is such an ideal niche for me that perfectly combines both of my primary academic interests in biology and computer science.
WHAT ATTRACTED YOU TO THE CSS PROGRAM AND CAROLINA?
I was really blown away by how beautiful UNC’s campus was and of course its great research and academic opportunities too. With CSS, access to those opportunities would be even more enhanced, so the prospect of having such endless ways to get involved in networking, research, and academics as part of the program was really exciting. The amazing support system within the CSS program with both other students and staff was also something I was highly interested in!
WHAT ARE YOU MOST LOOKING FORWARD TO EXPERIENCING AT CAROLINA OVER THE NEXT FOUR YEARS?
Definitely exploring all of the secret places around campus, getting involved in student organizations, meeting new people, and participating in a research lab!
WHAT RESEARCH TOPIC(S) ARE YOU INTERESTED IN EXPLORING AND WHY?
I’m interested in exploring bioinformatics and computational biology, but also pharmacometrics! Working at the intersection of life and computational sciences is such an ideal niche for me that perfectly combines both of my primary academic interests in biology and computer science. Specifically, I would love to make computer programs that can help scientists effectively sort and manage large data sets and simulate biological processes. These programs would allow scientists to gather important data while saving both time and resources in the lab!
WHAT IS ONE THING YOU HOPE TO ACCOMPLISH IN YOUR FUTURE STEM CAREER?
I hope to become a successful and knowledgeable scientist in the field I enter, making an impact in the scientific community and maybe even the greater world around me someday!