Alessandra DeGidio
My name is Alessandra DeGidio, and I am a senior majoring in microbiology with minors in informatics and data science at the University of Washington. I first became interested in microbiology in middle school after learning about the human microbiome and its influence on health and disease. The summer after my freshman year, I pursued an internship at the National Institutes of Health, where I did cancer immunology research. During this internship, I became fascinated with immunology, especially the ways immune pathways can be harnessed or dysregulated in disease. When I returned to UW, I joined the Stetson Lab, an immunology-focused research lab, to continue developing these interests. My work in the Stetson Lab centers on the STING pathway, a critical innate immune sensor involved in antiviral defense, inflammation, and cancer immunity. Through this research, and with the mentorship of Erik Van Dis, I have gained experience designing experiments, analyzing data, and thinking critically about immune regulation. My minors in informatics and data science complement my wet lab work by allowing me to approach biological questions with computational and quantitative tools, strengthening my ability to interpret large and complex data sets. I was motivated to apply for this scholarship because it would provide meaningful support as I continue balancing coursework and research. Financial support will allow me to dedicate more time to my scientific training and pursue opportunities that prepare me for my long-term goal of earning a PhD in immunology. Ultimately, I hope to build a career in research focused on advancing our understanding of immune pathways and translating those insights into improved health outcomes. Outside of classes and lab work, I enjoy going to coffee shops, climbing, and running.
Goals
I plan to continue my research training after graduation in the Ghajar Lab at Fred Hutch, where I will further develop my experimental and analytical skills in a translational research environment. In the long term, I aim to pursue a PhD in immunology and build a career in research focused on advancing our understanding of immune mechanisms and their therapeutic applications.
Tips
Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Many people are happy to help, and doing so can save you time and open you up to perspectives you might not have considered.
