Meet Dave Tolmach ’27, an OUR Peer Research Ambassador
majoring in Molecular & Cell Biology and Human Development & Family Sciences.
What is the focus of your research/creative activity?
I study the limitations of a genetic system in fruit flies that allow scientists to turn on genes by growing flies at a specific temperature. I study this system when it is combined with RNA interference (RNAi), which uses small pieces of genetic material to break down RNA, a copy of DNA for a particular gene, and prevent the formation of proteins.
Why did you get involved in research/creative activity?
I first heard about the opportunity to get involved in research while taking Anatomy and Physiology. I reached out to the professor, interviewed, and secured a position in the lab.
What advice would you give to aspiring student researchers?
Stick with it! You will get rejections, and that is simply part of the process. I would also encourage students to think outside of the box. Can you participate in research outside of Storrs, or perhaps in another department that approaches the topic you are interested in from a different angle? I would also recommend broadening your horizons. Some people are very passionate about a specific, pre-chosen research topic, but it can be helpful to consider opportunities in the broader field as well. This can open up many more opportunities. For instance, instead of saying, “I only want to study Alzheimer’s”, consider saying, “I am interested in neurodegeneration.” The latter is more general and makes it more likely that UConn will have several professors conducting research related to your interests.
What do you enjoy the most about participating in research/creative activity?
The best feeling on the planet is finding something really cool and realizing that you are the only person in history, with the exception of your parents who may not really understand what you are doing, to know it! I also really enjoy doing statistics. Statistics are a cool way of understanding natural phenomena!
Describe the impact your research experience/creative activity has had on you.
My research experience has led me to choose research as a career, including pursuing a master’s degree and a PhD. It has also given me a way to practice and apply the things I have learned in class. Lastly, I have met so many amazing, brilliant, and passionate researchers. If you have ever felt energized after learning something new and interesting (at a museum, zoo, gallery, et cetera), imagine going to conferences where that is a large part of what you get to do.
What is your greatest accomplishment so far?
I am a published author! I have a peer-reviewed publication in Insect Biochemistry and Molecular Biology on tools for studying support cells in the fruit fly antenna.
What are your plans after graduation? How has involvement in research/creative activity influenced your plans and/or prepared you for the future?
I plan to attend graduate school. I am currently in a 4+1 program in Physiology and Neurobiology (PNB). Although, for me, it is really a 5+1 program because I am completing two bachelor’s degrees and took a little more time to finish them. After completing my master’s degree, I plan to pursue a PhD in neurodevelopment and developmental cell biology. Ultimately, I hope to transition into industry and work in biotechnology or pharmaceuticals, or potentially remain in academia in a medical school setting.
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