Emily Castillo

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

I never actually “realized” that I wanted to study Genetics and Genomics; it just fell into place. I’ve been super passionate about Marine Biology since I was a little girl, and for my master’s, I wanted to study the population structuring of marine species using a genetics and genomics approach. That’s how it came to be, and I have enjoyed it ever since.

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

My principal investigator at Texas A&M University at Galveston highly recommended the Genetics & Genomics Ph.D. program. My PI believed that I would be a good fit, and after looking into the program, it seemed like a phenomenal place to continue my education.

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

If I were free to choose anything to study, I would love to continue my research on population genetics on marine and aquatic species.

Fun Facts:

• Who was your famous role model growing up?

My mom! In my eyes, she is totally famous and the biggest superstar. She has excelled at her career and has been a leading role model for how I want to live my life and develop my career.

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

My dream job after graduation is to continue on to do a post-doc and then become a PI at a leading institution.

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

I don’t have any hidden talents I don’t think, but I do enjoy crocheting and knitting.

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

I have a “little” doggie named Rowan! He is my pride and joy and I absolutely love him. Rowan is a 35 pound caramel terrier mix who is afraid of everything that moves…even his own shadow.

• Favorite place you have travelled to.

My favorite place that I have visited is the Chichen Itza Mayan ruins and the Cenotes in the surrounding area.