Samantha (Sam) Franklin

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

I did an NSF REU in the Entomology Department, although I found out that I wasn’t such a fan of bugs, I found genetics to be fun! Working with Dr. Hillhouse at TIGSS really solidified my decision to pursue a graduate degree in genetics.

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

I have really enjoyed my time as an undergraduate at TAMU and found the Genetics program to have everything that I was looking for!

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

I’d like to research disease genetics.

Fun Facts:

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

I shoot archery on the Texas A&M Collegiate archery team. We’re the 21 time and reigning national collegiate champions, and I really have enjoyed shooting with the team!

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

I just got a corgi puppy, her name is Minnie Winnie, and we’ve been exploring campus this past semester!