David Uribe

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

I began to take an interest in genetics when I attended South Texas College (STC) and became fascinated with genetic engineering in regenerative medicine. This was further enhanced when I attended the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) and joined Dr. Megan Keniry’s cellular/molecular biology laboratory. During my master’s program, I read articles about therapies utilizing genetic engineering methods for glioblastoma. I aim to obtain a PhD to increase my knowledge, develop as a researcher, create therapies, and aid society. I searched for possible universities and identified the Interdisciplinary program of Genetics & Genomics at Texas A&M. The program aligns with my goals and provides opportunities to gain vast skills and knowledge from different specialties going beyond genetic engineering.

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

My interest in Genetics & Genomics focuses on regenerative medicine, modifications (protein, metabolic, cellular/molecular, chemical, synthetic, and genetic), biotechnology, and nanotechnology. These factors are included in the program, allowing me to combine medicine, science, and technology to enhance living organisms for the better. I chose this program because of its incredible resources, diverse research areas, and the technological advancement it offers. This program has many applications I could try and learn from to reach my goal as a true scientist.

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

If I were to choose any research question/topic that I would like to address in my graduate studies, it would be “Applying genetic engineering in regenerative medicine to improve effectiveness.”

Fun Facts:

• What would be your dream job after graduation from the program?

My dream job after graduation from the program is to work in genetic engineering in regenerative medicine.

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

I can play Tuba due to being in band in middle school and high school. Additionally, I can swim freestyle, backstroke, butterfly, and breaststroke. I used to be a swimmer in high school.

• Do you have any pets? If so, please tell us about them.

I don’t have any pets. However, I have cats come by to visit me due to them being spoiled by the food that I give them.

• Favorite place you have travelled to.

My favorite place I have travelled to was Six Flags in San Antonio.