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Gurangad Chandok
Junior
Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

I study the mechanism of inherited diseases caused by
expansion of trinucleotide repeats at specific positions
in the genome.

How did you get involved in undergraduate research at Penn State?
My friends who were involved in research inspired me to get involved in research and give it a try. I filled out the application for independent research (BMB 496) and submitted it to the BMB Department. I heard back from the professor (Dr. Maria Krasilnikova) and took the opportunity and started doing research. I have been doing research for two years now.

Beyond the results or findings of your research, what have you learned from this experience?
Research has not only given me the opportunity to practically apply what I have learned but has also helped me broaden my perspective as a whole. In the past two years of research, I have developed various skills and mastered innumerous techniques. Above all I think research has taught me how to tackle various problems and manage my time efficiently.

What have you enjoyed most about your research experience?
Research has introduced me to the practical aspect of biochemistry; I find it amazing that I can actually apply what I have learned in various courses. I have not only had the opportunity to work with various different kinds of cells and enzymes but I have been able to closely follow the different stages of the cell cycle.

What would you tell a friend who wants to get involved in research?
I would strongly encourage any person to get involved in some research pertaining to their major. It will help you gain invaluable experience that will not only help you get accustomed and better understand various courses in college but will also help you later on in life.