Jordyn VanPortfliet

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

I realized I wanted to study genetics in high school biology class when we read the book, Genome: The Autobiography Of A Species In 23 Chapters by Matt Ridley. I was amazed at how four simple nucleotides make up complex organisms such as humans and the enigma of their impacts. This drove me to get my bachelor’s degree in Genomics and Molecular Genetics, which has cemented my desire to study Genetics

Why did you choose the Genetics PhD program at A&M?

I chose the Genetics PhD program at A&M because I feel that it is a place where I will have an abundance of tools and opportunities. I am excited to take advantage of as many of them as I can, to make as great a contribution as possible, to my lab and genetic science. I also appreciate how welcoming the staff and students at Texas A&M have been.

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

I would like to study human genetics and its impact on disease. This being said, to me, it is less about the topic and more about what I can do with it. I would like to keep my mind open and learn about as much about the research going on at Texas A&M as I can before deciding what question I would like to address for my graduate studies.

Fun Facts:

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

I have a ragdoll cat named Ella. Ragdolls get their name because they flop in your arms like a ragdoll when you pick them up. Ella loves to cuddle and chase her mouse on a fishing pole.

Favorite place you have travelled to.

I have traveled to many places in the US, but my favorite place to travel to is my home in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. I love the small towns, hiking, nature views, wildlife, and the Great Lakes.