Alexia S. Meléndez Rivera came to UW–Madison to participate in the Cellular and Molecular Biology of Stress Summer Research Program organized by WISCIENCE. During this 10-week program, Alexia got hands-on research experience in the Fungal Interactions Lab while also learning about research careers and practicing science communication skills.
Alexia, who comes from San Juan, Puerto Rico, is majoring in microbiology at Interamerican University of Puerto Rico: Metro Campus. Outside of her studies, Alexia enjoys embroidery and listening to music.
Briefly, what is the research project you are working on right now?
Investigating the possibility of a fitness trade-off imposed by Starships, which are the pioneers of horizontal gene transfer in fungi.
What has been the most valuable part of your lab experience this summer?
The most valuable part of my lab experience this summer has been getting to make new connections with my lab members and learning and perfecting techniques in the lab.
How do you think your experience here will impact your goals for the future?
This experience has opened new doors for my career in research and furthermore, has given me newfound confidence in my career choice.
What advice would you give to future CMBS students?
To future CMBS students I will say to find a good balance between your work and your life. Make good connections and develop a good support system. This experience is really fun, but it also gives you good insight on what working in research actually looks like. It’s good to have people to talk to when things don’t always go how we expected.
Learn more about the CMBS Summer Research Program.