Valeria Duran Salas

When and how did you realize that you wanted to study Genetics & Genomics?

While being an undergraduate I was able to learn a lot about the field of genetics through courses and talking to other scientists in the community. I have always had an interest in the topic of DNA and the human genome, but it was talking to others in the field which sedimented my interest in it and led me to want to pursue it .

Why did you choose the Genetics & Genomics Ph.D. program at A&M?

The program is very unique in the fact that it’s an interdisciplinary program where I have the possibility of learning about different areas of study. This, in addition with the great and diverse scientific community that is part of it, made me choose this program.

If you were free to choose anything, what research question/topic would you like to address for your graduate studies?

This is a tough question, thus far, my scientific career has been mainly in chemistry and I am still learning more about all the research topics in genetics. I have an interest in the relation of the genome and microbiome in the human body and would like to learn more about it, however, I am open to any new research topics.

Fun Facts:

Do you have any hidden talents? If so, what are they.

I learned to play Bass Guitar when I was twelve, I joined a band with a couple of my friends and we even got to play a couple of times in the town square! Although I don’t have much time to engross myself in music now,  I still enjoy playing from time to time.

Favorite place you have traveled to.

Mexico City, is a really culturally rich place where you can learn and experience a lot of different things. It is a very big city and you can always find something nice to do. It also has countless museums and parks to visit and learn about Mexican culture and history.