Damia Gonzalez Akimori

Name: Damia Gonzalez Akimoriimg_5503.jpg

Hometown: Lancaster, PA

Anticipated graduation: December 2020

Major: Biology

Internships/Research/Projects:

I began research in the summer of 2018 in Dr. Jonathan D. Stoltzfus’s lab and have worked on various nematode research project ever since. In my first project I investigated the effects of a ketoconazole, a cytochrome P450 inhibitor, on nematode development. In the summer of 2019, I researched maternal effects on egg hatching success, and in the 2019-2020 school year my project focused on molecular mechanisms of nematode developmental arrest and activation.

Currently for my departmental honors thesis I’m working on transcriptome analysis of Strongyloides stercoralis, a human parasitic nematode, to determine key genes involved in sex determination for the species.

Inspirations (for major, research, internship):

I always loved science since I was elementary school and knew I wanted a career in the sciences. It wasn’t until I took Foundations Genetics & Molecular Biology in 2018 that I fell in love with a specific subject and started to specify specific job interests. My research with nematodes and reading about all of the studies that have been conducted with them has also inspired me to continue working with them.

Finally, I’ve had the pleasure of working on campus as an academic mentor for biology where I primarily assist with the Foundations of Genetics & Molecular Biology course. This experience has helped me determine that I aspire to teach at the college level.

 Highlights (from courses/internship/research):

So far, I have given four presentations involving my nematode research which where all wonderful experiences. At the PASSHE STEM conference in November 2019, my “Maternal Factors Affecting Egg Viability in Nematodes” presentation  received the Best Presentation Award in Biology.

Since 2017 I have been a participant and then later in 2019, a mentor for the Biology Mentoring Program (BMP) founded by Dr. Brent Horton. The BMP has a mission of creating a network of both academic and personal support for underrepresented students in biology. This is a cause that is very dear to me, and I have gained many valuable skills and memories through this program.

 Takeaway (from courses/internship/research):

My main takeaway is that I can succeed in the sciences. I often struggle constantly with Imposter Syndrome, feeling like I don’t belong or that I’m not good enough for this career path. However, Millersville University’s programs like the Biology Mentoring Program and ADSE, my peers, and especially my professors have helped me realize that I can grow to be a good scientist. I know others often feel insecure and unsure of their positions in the sciences, but this is a community that will help build you up, and through work and dedication you can make it.

 Advice (for incoming freshman in your shoes):

Don’t be afraid to try new things! I never thought I’d love researching nematodes – at first I honestly thought they were a little gross but now I’m absolutely fascinated by them and think they’re pretty adorable. I was also intimidated by the idea of genetics and molecular biology, but through discussions with my mentor, shadowing previous research students, and asking a ton of questions, my worries subsided and I learned about all the career options that existed for my interests. It can be intimidating to reach out to professors about doing research or applying for that internship you’ve been eying, but the experience is worth it.

Also, try to engage in student organizations like the Biology Mentoring Program where you can meet students who you can build a support network in. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed with coursework and feel like you’re on your own, but there are numerous organizations here at MU to help support students.

Aspirations (upon graduation):

Through my experiences with research and academic peer mentoring I’ve decided to pursue a Ph.D. with a focus on genetics. Currently I’m working on applying for graduate programs, and I hope to one day research and teach at a primarily undergraduate institution.

What has been the most significant and/or exciting aspect of your work?

Being able to look back at my previous work and see the growth in myself as a scientist has been incredibly exciting to me. I love discussing and designing projects with Dr. Stoltzfus and being challenged to think through the obstacles that we encounter in our research. Also through my conferences and presentations I’ve begun to overcome my fear of public speaking which is incredibly valuable to me!

Scholarships awarded while attending Millersville University

Mervin W. Hess Endowmed Scholarship

Mentored Undergraduate Summer Experience (MUSE) Fellowship

President’s Commission on Cultural Diversity & Inclusion Summer Research Mentoring Initiative Fellowship

Student Grands for Research and Creative Activity

Neimeyer-Hodgson Student Research Grant