Annette (she/her) is a junior majoring in molecular cell biology. Her research interests include genetics and reproductive biology. In her free time, Annette enjoys traveling, cooking, and trying new things!
Annette joined the Hanlon Lab in the fall of 2023 and has continued working as a student researcher under principle investigator Dr. Stacey Hanlon. Her lab studies B chromosome dynamics in the fruit fly. She received a 2024 SURF Award, allowing her to embark on her first independent research project. This summer, Annette was able to investigate how oocyte age impacts B chromosome transmission.
During her first year at UConn in the fall of 2022, Annette got involved in HuskyTHON, raising money and spreading awareness for Connecticut Children's Hospital. Additionally, she became an active member of Alpha Beta Epsilon, UConn’s premier biology fraternity. In the Summer of 2023, Annette spent two weeks in Tanzania, Africa volunteering in a local hospital with PMGY UConn. This upcoming fall Annette will be a First Year Experience mentor to a class that focuses on STEM undergraduate research.
In the future, Annette plans to pursue graduate studies in developmental genetics. She aspires to become an embryologist and work at a fertility clinic. She is fascinated with the evolving reproductive field and the new technologies within.
Before coming to UConn, Annette was unaware of all of the research opportunities available to her. Getting involved in research has helped Annette find her passion and changed her career goals. She recommends that everyone should give research a try!