Professor Dr. Alex Feltus is part of a new collaborative research study that found some genetic traits modern humans inherited from Neanderthals may increase a person’s susceptibility to autism. The study suggests long-term effects of ancient human hybridization on brain organization and function and could possibly lead to earlier diagnosis.
“This is the first evidence that I am aware of actually showing that Neanderthal DNA is associated with autism,” said Dr. Feltus.
In this study, the researchers used data from publicly available data bases: Simons Foundation Powering Autism Research (SPARK). They found specific Neanderthal genetic markers were enriched in people with autism compared to ethnically-matched control groups.
However, this does not mean that everyone who has these Neanderthal-derived variations will develop autism. The hypothesis of the study is instead, that Neanderthals gave us some of the gene tweaks that give a higher susceptibility for autism.
“Autism is a complex trait. It is controlled by many, many genes. A big part of what we do in my lab is try to understand the level of complexity,” said Dr. Feltus. “Of the 60,000 genes in the human genome, how many genes are at play when you’re developing autism or cancer or any other complex trait? We embrace complexity. We don’t try to erase complexity.”
Crystal Pitts (left) and Ashley Anthony (right) joined the Department of Genetics and Biochemistry staff.
Crystal Pitts
In May the Department of Genetics and Biochemistry welcomed Crystal Pitts as their new graduate program coordinator.
Crystal, originally from Brooklyn, NY, has lived in the Upstate for most of her life. She graduated from Lander University in 2022 with a degree in Business Administration and is set to receive her MBA in Digital Brand Communications from Clemson University in August 2024.
As our Graduate Services Coordinator, Crystal provides administrative support in planning, designing, and implementing graduate degree programs in the Department of Genetics and Biochemistry. She serves as primary representative for initiating and maintaining academic and payroll records for enrolled students and assisting with student recruitment.
A fun fact about Crystal is that she used to be a 9-1-1 dispatcher for both Clemson University Police Department and Anderson County Sheriff’s Office. Outside of work, you can find her listening to jazz at Blues Boulevard, dining at her favorite Greenville restaurants Coral and Konnichiwa, or spending time with her husband and two cats, Zira and Olan.
“I am excited for the opportunity to work with student and faculty to make the upcoming Fall 2024 semester one of the best experiences,” says Crystal.
Ashley Anthony
The department recently welcomed Ashley Anthony, the new accounts payable and receivable accountant to their staff.
Ashley was born and raised in just around the corner in Pickens, SC and graduated from Pickens High School in 2001. Ashley has many years of accounting experience and recently left Blue Ridge Electric in the Customer Service Department after 11 years of service.
As our accounts payable and receivable accountant, Ashely handles all purchasing, invoicing, and reimbursement needs. She is the go-to person for all Concur, Buyways and day-to-day accounting needs.
A fun fact about Ashley is that she has fostered children and keeps in touch with some of them! She has three kids and is engaged to be married. Ashley’s favorite place to be is her lake house on Hartwell spending time with friends and family.
“I am honored to have gotten this opportunity to be with such great people. I am very blessed to work with such a great team!”
Biochemistry student Ryan Mehlem (third from left) was part of the winning group.
Senior biochemistry student Ryan Mehlem was part of a group that won the Pay it Forward competition, sponsored by South Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives.
The Pay it Forward competition challenges students at Clemson University, South Carolina State University or the University of South Carolina to propose solutions to pressing social and economic problems in rural areas. Students work as teams to create a solution to a long-standing issue, presented as a research paper and video.
Other students in the winning group include Mercy Crapps and Natalia Nortz, both biological sciences majors. The group received $1,000 for their design for a mobile STEM academy toolkit that provides resources, volunteer support and community outreach to students in rural South Carolina schools. The STEM education toolkit helps teachers provide their students with an experiential learning approach that can complement textbook learning or computer simulations in the classroom.
“I remember from my middle school experience, I was able to do some molecular biology practices and techniques which was exciting and interesting,” said Mehlem. “And now I work with those in my own research, pretty much every day.”
When building their STEM education project proposal, the team’s research focused mostly on middle schools, talking to staff at several rural schools throughout the state before developing their initiative.
The trio plans to start with fewer than 10 schools before refining their toolkit and expanding to other locations.
Junior genetics major Kylie Towery has been studying abroad in Florence, Italy this summer through the Lorenzo de Medici Institute.
Kylie is from York, SC and has minors in biochemistry and psychology. She is involved in several extracurricular activities on campus, during the school year and this fall will be joining Dr. Haiying Laing’s Woody Plant Genomics Lab.
“On campus, I am involved with my sorority, Kappa Delta, where I serve as Senior Experience Chair and on the Parenting Place Committee for the past two years.”
Kylie is studying abroad this summer through one of Clemson’s third-party programs, which are coordinated by other universities and study abroad organizations. She is studying at the Institute of Lorenzo de’ Medici (LdM) in Florence, Italy. LdM is noted as one of the most distinctive and well-established study abroad institutions in Italy.
“For four weeks, I am taking a Love and Natural Selection class at LdM that will count towards my psychology minor.”
Kylie shares an apartment with five other girls, tow of which are from Clemson. They like to spend their time truly immersing themselves in the culture. Living close to both the river and the replica of David, Kylie enjoys amazing views when she goes out. She has been exploring Florence, eating at new food, shopping and meeting new people.
“I have met so many amazing people from all over the US as well as several people from different parts of the world!”
Kylie is making sure to take advantage of this experience and travel to different parts of Italy, so far having been to Cinque Terre, Tuscany, Venice, San Gimignano and Castiglioncellon. She just wrapped up a weekend trip to the Amalfi Coast, where she got to see Positano, Capri, Sorrento and Pompeii.
“The views everywhere have been amazing so I have been soaking up every moment and opportunity that I can!”
Kailie Greer ’24
Senior biochemistry major Kailie Greer is currently in Florence, Italy studying introduction to cross cultural communication.
Kailie is originally from Charleston, SC and has minors in chemistry and animal and veterinary science. During the academic year, Kailie works at Crossroads Animal Hospital in Seneca, SC.
In addition, I am part of Dr. Scott Pratt’s Advancement of Assisted Reproductive Technologies for Cattle and Other Species Creative Inquiry.”
This research project focuses on methods to increase bovine fertility and examine the putative microRNA markers associated with early pregnancy and early pregnancy loss in pregnancies produced by in vitro fertilization or embryo transfer.
Kailie is studying abroad this summer through one of Clemson’s third-party programs, which are coordinated by other universities and study abroad organizations. Kailie is studying at the Institute of Lorenzo de’ Medici (LdM) in Florence, Italy. LdM is noted as one of the most distinctive and well-established study abroad institutions in Italy.
“My typical day starts with a walk to a new coffee shop, my roommates and I are trying all the coffee we can, then I grab lunch and sit outside while I catch up on readings for class.”
At LdM, Kailie is taking an introduction to cross cultural communication course. This course explores and explains everything from the influence of culture on personal identity, differing conceptions and norms of personal space, rituals, speech patterns, myths, ideologies, and the mass media’s influence on cross-cultural representations of reality.
In her free time, Kailie is enjoying walking the streets of Florence, trying new restaurants, and exploring all of what Italy has to offer. She has visited the Amalfi coast, Tuscany, and participated in a cooking class.
“I have met some really great people from all over the United States, as well as some students in my classes from all over the world. This is by far one of my favorite experiences!”
Brooke Dellingham ’24
This summer, senior genetics major Brooke Dillingham spent about two weeks studying abroad in Greenland, Denmark, the world’s largest island, located in the North Atlantic Ocean.
Brooke is from York, SC and is involved in many extracurriculars on campus including conducting research in Dr. Michael Sehorn’s DNA repair and Meiotic Homologous Recombination lab.
“In addition, I act as a Clemson LIFE peer mentor, the assistant attorney general of Clemson’s Judicial Board and a member of the Science Student Advisory Board.”
Brooke studied abroad in Greenland as a part of Clemson’s National Scholars Program, exploring the ideas of art and climate change in the Arctic. Led by associate professor of art Dr. Todd Anderson, Brooke and the group started out their trip in Copenhagen, where they went to the Statens Museum for Kunst, the national gallery of Denmark.
“The first part of Greenland we explored was Kangerlussuag where we saw the Russell Glacier, reindeer, an arctic hare, an arctic fox and an ice sheet.”
Known for its airport, Kangerlussuaq is a small town in western Greenland where 25km east, you will find the Russell Glacier. The Russell Glacier flows from the Greenland ice sheet and stands like a wall of ice – reaching up to 60 meters at some points. Brooke also explored Disko Island, where they saw Bowhead Whales and did a polar plunge.
“Our final destination was Ilulissat, which is one of the larger settlements in Greenland. It is said that the iceberg that sank the Titanic originated from Ilulissat’s Disko Bay.”
While visiting Copenhagen, Kangerlussuag, and Ilulissat, Brooke and the group spent most of their time outside taking in the breathtaking scenery and hiking.
“There is nothing that can compare to seeing the icebergs and glaciers of Greenland. When standing next to some glaciers there are points when you look up and around you and all you can see is ice.”
Photo credit to Dr. Todd Anderson
Gabbie Gardiner ’24
Gabbie Gardiner, senior genetics and biochemistry major, minoring in Spanish, is participating in a one-month study-abroad program. The Clemson Language Immersion Program aims to provide students with a language immersion experience in Spain.
Gabbie is originally from Louisville, KY and is involved in Alpha Chi Omega, the Clemson Spanish Club and a non-profit called Her Best Foot Forward, which distributes hygiene necessities to girls in need. In addition, Gabbie participates in Clemson F45, a fitness training that combines elements three different types of workouts, and she works in the Genetics and Biochemistry Teaching Lab as a work-study student.
Currently studying at the University of Salamanca in Salamanca, Spain, Gabbie is only permitted to speak Spanish during the duration of her study abroad experience. Therefore, she takes two classes conducted entirely in Spanish, one with a Clemson faculty member, who focuses on Spanish grammar, and one with a local Spanish professor at the University of Salamanca, who teaches the culture and history of Spain. After classes, they typically have an activity to attend.
“During the week we have our two classes then usually an activity in the afternoon, whether it be a tour of a historical monument in Salamanca or an activity with local students at the university.”
Throughout this break, she also has the time stop into stores or get gelato or a tapa, do some homework and talk with her host family. Gabbie lives with a host family to help immerse her into the culture and language. Her host family only speaks Spanish and has introduced her to traditional Spanish meals and customs.
“My experience with my host family has been amazing and I have learned a variety of new Spanish vocabulary, traditions, and meals.”
On the weekends Gabbie and the other students travel to other parts of Spain to learn more about the differences in culture between the autonomous communities. So far, they have visited five autonomous communities: Castilla y León, Castilla-La Mancha, Madrid, Galicia, and País Vasco. While there, they visit monuments and museums, learn about different local dialects and Spanish cuisine.
“Some of the most notable things we have seen are the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, the Royal Palace of Madrid, the cathedral of Toledo, the Tower of Hércules, La Playa de La Concha and the Guggenheim Museum. My favorite place we have visited is San Sebastián in País Vasco. The cuisine there is impeccable and unique to the community.”
Gabbie loves to walk around the town and admire the beautiful architecture, go on a run across the Puente Romano, siesta, and meet friends from both Clemson and ones she has made in Salamanca in the Plaza Mayor for gelato.
“Overall, this experience has been so rewarding and my Spanish has improved significantly.”
Logan Rush ’26
Logan Rush with her OTH Regensburg acceptance letter.
Logan Rush is National Scholar and a sophomore genetics major with a minor in Pan-African studies. She is currently studying abroad in Germany for eight weeks.
On campus Logan is involved in the Call Me Doctor ESTEEMED Scholars Program, College of Science Student Advisory Board, National Society of Black Engineers, Sister2Sister, and more.
“I serve as the financial committee chair for Clemson’s chapter of the NAACP, the social media liaison for the college of science and a mentor in the program CONNECTIONS. Furthermore, I also participate in research in Clemson’s bioengineering department.”
Logan is studying abroad in Germany with the rest of her National Scholars Program cohort. All NSP study-travel experiences are designed specifically and exclusively for National Scholars. These experiences offer NSP students the opportunity to develop intercultural competencies, grow personally and intellectually and build a community within and across their scholar cohort.
For the first two weeks of her study abroad experience, Logan explored parts of Berlin and Stuttgart. She then arrived in Regensburg, Bavaria to her internship at the university OTH Regensburg. OTH Regensburg is one of the most research-intensive universities of applied sciences in Bavaria.
“I’m interning in a health informatics lab where my project consists of becoming familiar with/writing about research pertaining to privacy risks associated with genetic processing.”
In her free time, Logan has enjoyed exploring the town, traveling to neighboring places, and even has a plan to visit Prague in the next few weeks.
“Overall, I’ve really enjoyed having the opportunity to explore, learn, and immerse myself in a different culture.”
Allison Donohue ’24
Allison Donohue is a biochemistry major with a minor in cluster engineering from Kinnelon, NJ. Allison is currently participating in the Faculty-Directed: Summer Undergraduate Research in Osaka, Japan.
This study abroad program provides research experience for students in world-class research laboratories at one of three top universities in Japan. The research project that Allison is conducting is synthesis of ruthenium complexes towards anticancer drugs.
Allison’s days consist of hands-on experiments, synthesizing different compounds and working on her research paper or Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) presentation. COIL is a program where Clemson students work alongside Japanese students to construct a presentation comparing certain aspects of Japan to the United States. In addition, she also meets with her professor to discuss her research progress and her assigned mentor who helps her get acclimated to the Japanese lifestyle.
In her free time, Allison has loved getting to travel, enjoy the traditional Japanese cuisine, shop for souvenirs and immerse herself in everything Japan has to offer.
“I love exploring different areas of Osaka and traveling to different parts of Japan. I enjoy getting to see the more touristy parts of Japan, but the less touristy, more natural beauty areas of Japan are even more intriguing.”
One of Allison’s favorite trips was visiting Amanoshidate, a pine-covered sand-bar and one of Japan’s three scenic views. They stayed in a more traditional home, got to try out an onsen (a hot spring) and see more of Japan’s natural beauty. Another place she enjoyed visiting was Nara, the deer park. Here she was able to pet and feed deer that bowed to her.
“I’ve loved everything about this experience so far and I cannot wait to experience more as I go through the rest of my experience here.”
Graduate student Amara Onoh awarded grant for educational science program.
Biochemistry and molecular biology graduate student from Dr. Michael Sehorn’s lab Amarachukwu Onoh (Amara) has been awarded an American Society of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology 2024 Science Outreach and Communication (ASBMB SOC) grant.
The ASBMB Science Outreach and Communication Committee’s mission is to expand the effectiveness of inclusive and accessible science outreach and communication activities. Each grant supplies up to $1,000 for a new or existing public engagement activity to promote a molecular understanding of life.
Amara is using her grant towards the Africa of Our Dream Initiative, which she facilitates. The Africa of Our Dream Initiative is one-day event that reaches up to 200 undergraduates from the University of Nigeria with a goal to enhance scientific literacy and appreciation of bioresearch. This program is designed to engage undergraduate students in the process of drug discovery, providing an educational experience that includes a keynote speech and hands-on learning to introduce drug-target interactions using simulations of molecular docking. The event ends with a science challenge, with prizes awarded and each participant receives a certification of completion.
“Given that Nigeria is a developing country with a low level of scientific literacy, the country needs science outreach programs designed to inform the populace about science, especially biochemical science,” Amara said.“We desire to contribute towards raising a generation of future leaders who are science literate and appreciate scientific research.”
For Amara the ASBMB grant provides funds for the Africa of Our Dream Initiative’s basic infrastructure such as internet, projector and sound equipment, as well as awards for speakers and funds for advertising the event.
Junior biochemistry major with a minors in chemistry and cluster life sciences, Albash Khan studied abroad in Osaka, Japan this summer, where he was involved in a bioengineering research program.
“My research focuses on developing microgels for miRNA replacement therapy, aimed at treating cancer cells. The core of my work involves engineering these microgels to effectively deliver miRNA to cancerous cells, with the goal of halting abnormal protein production within the targeted cell.”
In the lab, Albash spent most of his time conducting experiments to prepare microgels to analyze. On Tuesday evenings Albash’s entire lab, including our professor, gathered to present their current research and discuss recent scientific papers.
“I collaborated closely with my lab mates, who have been incredibly supportive and foster a collaborative environment.”
During the weekends, Albash has the time to explore and spend time with fellow Clemson students in the program and his new Japanese friends. He has had the opportunity to travel to different parts of Japan, such as Kyoto and Okinawa, where he has experienced the country’s diverse landscapes and traditions.
“In my free time, I love immersing myself in the local culture. I often visit historical sites and try out new restaurants. I’ve also had some unique adventures, like feeding deer that bow in Nara Park or biking 50 miles across five islands.”
Beyond the academic and cultural experiences, this study abroad journey has allowed Albash to build strong connections with both local and international students sharing many memorable moments, from hiking in the mountains to attending baseball games.
“These lifelong friendships have been a highlight of my time in Japan and have truly enriched my study abroad experience.”
Albash is originally from Florence, SC, and chose our Biochemistry program to help reach his goal of becoming a Nephrologist. Albash is involved in the Hunting for Novel Antibiotics Creative Inquiry led by Dr. Min Cao in Biological Sciences; the Rutland Institute for Ethics’ student ethics committee, Creative Habits and Norms Guiding Ethical Decisions; and the Health Extension for Diabetes Program.
Lauren Anderson ’25
Lauren Anderson, a junior Genetics major with a minor in women’s studies interned at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine and Greenville Memorial Hospital in Greenville, SC through the National Institutes of Health R25 program.
“I worked under Dr. Thomas Nathaniel, researching the Demographic and Psychotropic Factors in Patients with Vascular Dementia with Neuropsychiatric Symptoms and a History of Alcohol Use.”
Lauren’s research was cultivated by the data from patients diagnosed with dementia from Prisma Health-Upstate Alzheimer Registry, which is collected when patients come to the hospital with a dementia-related complaint.
“A univariate analysis was used to determine the differences in demographics and psychotropic factors for venereal disease patients who present with neuropsychiatric symptoms with a history of alcohol use compared with those without a history of alcohol.”
Lauren is originally from Greenville, SC and during the academic year is involved in various pre-medical clubs and organizations such as Clemson MedEx Academy, Clemson HOSA and Tigers for Babies. In addition, she gives her time to outreach activities including volunteering at the Clemson Free Clinic, guiding others as a core training instructor at the local gym and supporting low-income families at the community care center.
Lauren has also collaborated with Clemson’s Psychology Research Department on a study focusing on psychological pressure and decision-making.
“After graduating, I plan to attend medical school pursuing a career as a fertility endocrinologist and delve into in vitro fertilization and reciprocal in vitro fertilization.”
Riley Murphey ’24
This summer Riley Murphey, senior genetics major with a minor in Russian area studies, interned at the National Institute of Environmental Heath Science (NIEHS) in Durham, NC, working in Dr. William Copeland’s lab studying mitochondrial DNA replication.
NIEHS’s mission is to discover how the environment affects people to promote healthier lives. At NIEHS, William C. Copeland, Ph.D., is Chief of the Genome Integrity and Structural Biology Laboratory and head of the Mitochondrial DNA Replication Group, which studies mitochondrial diseases. Riley had three projects this summer.
“The first included generating an HA-tagged mitochondrial single-stranded binding protein (mtSSB) construct for future competition assays. The second project’s goal was to explore the binding affinity of Polymerase Gamma’s subunit POLG2 in a mutant and wild type form to a D-loop structure in the mitochondrial genome. My last project was exploring the binding affinity of Transcription Factor A Mitochondrial (TFAM) to single-stranded DNA.”
Through these research projects, Riley was introduced to new techniques including anisotropy, fast liquid column chromatography (FPLC) and protein purification, oligo annealing, DNA purification from a gel, dot blotting, and electrophoretic mobility shift assays (EMSA).
“My work was completed under the supervision of the amazing Dr. Dillon King, who is a post-doctoral fellow in the Genome Integrity & Structural Biology Laboratory. She was an excellent teacher and has become a great friend.”
Summer interns at NIEHS had the opportunity to present their work at a poster forum. Riley earned second place in the undergraduate category for research and poster.
“I absolutely loved my time at NIEHS and hope to return to the people there as a post-doctorate fellow after graduate school.”
Elizabeth Caldwell ’24
Elizabeth Caldwell is a senior genetics major with a minor in biochemistry and she is currently a Pediatric Oncology Education (POE) Program intern at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The POE Program is a competitive summer internship that allows students to conduct world-class laboratory research while exploring pediatric oncology’s clinical side.
Elizabeth returned to the POE Program for a second summer to continue her acute myeloid leukemia (AML) research in the Klco Lab. The Klco lab is focused on defining the molecular and biological causes of this class of tumors.
“I am honored that St. Jude and Dr. Klco have given me the opportunity to continue exploring my passion for rare disease research by investigating rare mutations seen in pediatric AML. I have learned many new skills that I am excited to bring back to Clemson and carry with me for the rest of my career.”
At St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Elizabeth has had the opportunity to explore the clinical side of survivorship care, pediatric lymphomas and leukemias, and adult gynecologic oncology in addition to her research.
“St. Jude is so special to me because it is the perfect institution to see my three passions intersect: research, patient care, and public health. The community of St. Jude is very strong, and I feel a similar connection to my cohort within the program. I have made so many great friends that I’ve enjoyed exploring Memphis on the weekends and Nashville over the July 4th Weekend.”
As a 2024 Truman Scholar, Elizabeth had the opportunity to attend the Truman Scholars Leadership Week (TSLW) earlier this summer. During this week, Elizabeth met other scholars, learned about graduate school opportunities, and participated in a service project for the community of Liberty, Missouri.
“I am so thankful to be named a Truman scholar amongst some of the most driven people I have met. I am excited for what the future holds, and the opportunities Truman will provide to delve deeper into my passions in public health policy.”
Originally from Hendersonville, TN, Elizabeth is a National Scholar in the Clemson Honors College and a member of Dr. Sehorn’s lab. During the academic year, Elizabeth serves as president for Tigers 4 Accessibility, volunteers with the Clemson Free Clinic and a local hospice organization, acts as a student representative on the Accessibility Commission, and is a member of Phi Delta Epsilon.
Natalie Shay ’24
Natalie Shay is a senior genetics major with a minor in psychology, and she just finished up her summer internship at the Greenwood Genetic Center (GGC).
The Greenwood Genetic Center is a non-profit organization that has provided clinical genetic services, diagnostic laboratory testing, educational programs and resources, and medical genetics research to patients for over 50 years.
At the GGC, Natalie got to shadow many lab techniques such as DNA extraction from human blood, RT-PCR, Western Blotting, Oxford Nanopore DNA sequencing (her favorite) and GGC’s special methylation array test called EpiSign. She also got to see their aquaculture center that houses the zebrafish they use in their research experiments.
“The project that I was a part of is called the Genomic Discovery Project (GDP). In the GDP, clinicians refer patients with suspected genetic disorders to the GGC to investigate further. There are 3 tracks in the GDP: Discovery, Resolution, and Treatment.”
Natalie worked under Dr. Richard Street and was part of the Resolution track, which is where, patient cases with results showing genetic “Variants of Unknown Significance” are reviewed to determine what kind of experiments can be done.
“I focused on two patient cases with multiple Variants of Unknown Significance, made presentations on what was already known about those genes, and tried to link it back to our patients’ phenotypes.”
Natalie had the opportunity to present those presentations in GDP meetings that triaged the patient cases to determine experimental feasibility. Working with real patient data made Natalie feel more connected and proud that her efforts would be used to help actual patients.
“I got to work with a wide variety of people from all over the world, and it was great making connections with everyone who worked there. The Greenwood Genetic Center does wonderful work!”
Sofia Wiley ’24
Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (hEDS) is thought to be the most common genetic connective tissue disorder. Senior genetics major Sofia Wiley has spent her summer researching this disease, one which she is diagnosed with herself.
“As a part of the Gensmer hEDS internship program, I have been given the rare opportunity to study my own disease.”
Sofia is working with the Norris Lab at the Medical University of South Carolina on a project related to the complement system and its biological importance in hEDS. Alongside her project, she has been able to shadow in neurosurgery, dermatology, orthopedics, and genetic counseling. Advocacy is a significant part of the program, and Sofia has had the opportunity to work on many projects to improve patient education and resources.
“My favorite part of the program is the community that is being built and the ability to promote disability involvement in STEM.”
This summer Sofia has spent her free time enjoying beach picnics, exploring new restaurants and ice cream shops around Charleston, watching movies with friends and reading. Also, Sofia is working on additional advocacy projects.
“I am also working on a few advocacy projects, focusing mainly on advancing the disability community through patient, parent and physician education. That was a large part of this internship, and I have a few projects which will continue well into the future.”
Originally from Birmingham, AL, Sofia is a part of the Honor College, pre-med with a minor in biochemistry. During the academic year, Sofia volunteers at NewSpring Church, participates in undergraduate research in Dr. Michael Sehorn’s lab, is a member of Kappa Delta, and is vice president of Alpa Epsilon Delta, a pre-health honor society designed for distinguished students who want to pursue a career in one of the health field.
Leigh Anna Brown ’25
Junior biochemistry major Leigh Anna Brown is spending her summer as a medical assistant, a tutor, a resident community manager and more (as you see in the photo above)!
Leigh Anna is working as a medical assistant at a dermatology clinic where she gets to work with patients and assist providers with biopsies and excisions. In addition, she is tutoring two third graders prepping them for the new school year. Leigh Anna has also been working with high schoolers and incoming freshmen this summer.
Giving back to her community is important to Leigh Anna. This summer she volunteered at a week-long event in her local community called Serve Week, where she led middle and high schoolers in projects.
“We go out every day doing different service projects such as cleaning up roads and washing cop cars.”
She is also a Resident Community Mentor (RCM) on campus in Byrnes Hall this summer working with incoming freshman. RCMs serve students in the residential communities as community engagers, community advocates, and resource educators.
“I love working with freshmen and helping them establish themselves in the Clemson community and making a home here.”
While not busy at the clinic, on campus or tutoring, Leigh Anna is enjoying walking, getting coffee, reading and maintaining goats this summer.
“I started raising goats with my fiancé this summer. We have six right now and hopefully will be breeding them soon!”
Leigh Anna is involved in Campus Outreach, an interdenominational college ministry program and Sigma Alpha Omega, a Christian sorority where she serves as their Judicial Board Chairwoman and Bible Study Chairwoman.
“In the fall, I am starting a research project on prenatal and postpartum mental health and chronic illness in the fall and am super excited.”
Kaylee Board ’25
Kaylee Board is a pre-med junior genetics and biochemistry double major with minors in biological sciences and chemistry from Arlington, VA. This summer Kaylee is balancing her time between studying for the MCAT, volunteering and shadowing.
On campus Kaylee participates in the Clemson University Student Government as a member of the Judicial Board, the organization It’s On Us, which is the nation’s largest nonprofit program dedicated to college sexual assault prevention, and is a member of Chi Omega. In addition, Kaylee is part of two Creative Inquiries.
“One is a chemistry CI through the Honors College under the guidance of Dr. Julia Brumaghim, which focuses on synthesizing thione/selone N-heterocycles. My second CI project focuses on environmental genomics under the guidance of Dr. Kimberly Métris.”
In Dr. Métris’ CI the Kaylee is working with the team to interrogate eukaryotic connections among vertebrates, plants, and fungi using environmental DNA from local sites they selected. At the Focus on Creative Inquiry (FoCI) Poster Forum in April, Kaylee and the group presented research showing their bacterial 16S rRNA metagenomic sequencing results and are also working as a team to interrogate eukaryotic connections among vertebrates, plants, and fungi using environmental DNA from local sites they selected.
Kaylee has been keeping busy during her summer as well, partly studying for the MCAT to get in to medical school.
“For the MCAT, I’ve been working on a mix of content review from pre-requisite classes and passage style questions to get used to the formatting of the exam.”
While Kaylee has been studying for the MCAT, she has also been volunteering at Virginia Hospital Center and shadowing in their Emergency Department. She has had the opportunity to learn for the physicians during evening/night shifts. In addition to the Emergency Department, Kaylee has shadowed in various other medical specialties this summer including Urology, Dermatology, Plastic Surgery and Pediatric Oncology.
“There’s so much involved with being pre-med, largely gaining experience to ensure medicine is the career path you truly want to follow.”
When not studying, volunteering or shadowing, this summer Kaylee has been enjoying cooking, spending time with friends, going to coffee shops and hiking.
Helen Kiser ’24
Helen Kiser, senior genetics major from Maryville, TN, has been researching, traveling, attending conferences and shadowing this summer.
During the academic year, Helen, who has a minor in biological sciences, volunteers with Camp Spearhead, a camp facility for children and adults with special needs specifically designed to meet the wide-ranging needs of our campers. Helen also participates in research with Dr. J. Antonio Baeza in the Biological Sciences Department.
“My spring research involved using various bioinformatic tools to create a novel genomic resource of the mitochondrial genome for the species Gonodactylaceus falcatus (the Philippine mantis shrimp).”
This summer Helen is a part of the Summer CI + UR Research Program. She is currently conducting bioinformatic research to characterize the mitochondrial genomes of 4 mantis shrimp and conducting an in-depth phylogenetic analysis to prove these 4 species are in fact unique species.
“My summer research is an extension of this project in order to create one comprehensive project of three other species in the same genus in order to create multiple novel genomic resources that both provide in-depth descriptions of each mitogenome and provide one phylogenetic analysis of the entire infraorder Stomatopoda.”
“Despite attending the conference every day, I still was able to explore Taipei and Taiwan by going to one of the many night markets in the city, visiting the National Palace Museum, and just generally exploring.”
In addition to research and traveling, Helen has also been shadowing different genetic counselors all around Knoxville, TN this summer. She has shadowed at East Tennessee Children’s Hospital, UT Medical Center and Thompson Cancer Survival Center.
“This will help I’m applying to graduate school in the fall for a Master’s Program in genetic counseling.”
She has also found time for hiking and taking couple personal trips to Portland and Philadelphia, where she attended a Phillies baseball game.
Katie Cross ’25
Katie Cross, a junior biochemistry major with minors in anthropology and plant pathology, is conducting a research project focusing on the effects of progesterone on craniofacial development this summer.
Originally from Roanoke, VA, Katie is involved in the Clemson Honors College, Clemson Club Swimming and the Delta Gamma sorority, where she serves as their director of sisterhood.
“During the academic year, I also participate in undergraduate research with Dr. Kara Powder studying the craniofacial development of cichlids and zebrafishes.”
This summer, she has been given the opportunity to conduct her own research project in Dr. Powder’s lab through Clemson Creative Inquiry + Undergraduate Research Summer program.
“My project focuses on the effects of progesterone on craniofacial development specifically on cichlid fish and how such developmental alterations can be interpreted to the hormone concentrations found in our everyday environment.”
Katie is thankful for the Creative Inquiry + Undergraduate Research Program. She appreciates that the program provides participating students with the resources to conduct their independent projects and coordinates weekly seminars with guest speakers to help students improve their professional development skills.
“We were also given the opportunity to volunteer for Ready, Set, Roar! Orientation, where groups share their Summer CI + UR experiences with incoming freshmen. I was able to present at an orientation recently with peers Kate Miller and Kristen Gulbrandson.”
While outside the lab, you may find Katie kayaking, reading in her hammock, listening to live music at the City of Clemson’s “On the Ave,” volunteering for the Clemson Aquatic Team, traveling to close destinations such as Charleston, SC or Athens, GA, or participating in a Barre class at Fike Recreation Center.
“Even though my research is my main priority this summer, I have still had plenty of time to enjoy all of the wonderful things Clemson has to offer.”
Originally from Downers Grove, IL, Helen is minoring in Chemistry and Spanish studies and participates in many extracurriculars on campus. Her involvement includes acting as vice president for the Clemson Running Club, the philanthropic chair for the Alpha Omega Epsilon sorority and a member of the Genetics and Biochemistry Club.
In addition, Helen participates in research at Clemson, working in Dr. Jim Morris’s lab in the Eukaryotic Pathogens Innovation Center (EPIC) researching potential drug targets for diseases caused by protozoan parasites.
“This is quite different from the research I’m doing this summer, but the invaluable research skills I learned in Dr. Morris’s lab allowed me to jump right into my project in the Emanuele lab at UNC.”
Helen’s summer internship is through the Department of Pharmacology at the UNC School of Medicine. The lab that Helen is working is called the Emanuele Lab and is located in and associated with the Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, a cancer research and treatment center at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill that serves patients N.C. Basnight Cancer Hospital.
The research that Helen is focusing on is studying the growth and proliferation of human cell lines in order to better understand certain processes involved in cancer progression. The long-term goal is creating cancer therapies targeting cell proliferation.
“Specifically, I am working on analyzing specific proteins involved in the cell cycle of breast cancer cells in order to identify potential drug targets and methods of drug delivery.”
Outside of work, she is enjoying having the free time that sometimes the academic year doesn’t allow. In the afternoons and on the weekends, Helen enjoys hanging out with her new friends—roommates and other members of her program, reading and catching up on her favorite Netflix series.
“I’ve been exploring all that there is to do in Chapel Hill and the surrounding area—restaurants, shopping, farmers markets, hiking, etc.”
Kate Miller ’25
Kate Miller, a junior genetics major with a minor in biological sciences from Fort Mill, SC, is spending her summer at Clemson continuing her research of cichlids, a large family of freshwater fishes that can be found in Africa, Central and South America, parts of Jordan, Iran, India and Sri Lanka.
On campus, Kate is a part of the Honors College, the Club Swim Team, works at the concession stands at the sports games and is on the Beaker Box team, a group that creates and distributes educational science activities designed for the middle school.
“However, most important to Kate is her involvement in two Creative Inquiry (CI) programs, both led by Dr. Kara Powder.”
Since her sophomore year, Kate has been an undergraduate researcher in Dr. Powder’s lab, where she has been studying craniofacial development of cichlid fishes, a study that she has continued throughout the summer.
“Endocrine disruptors such as estrogen have been found in the environment due to pollution, and this research will show what may happen to the facial development of humans if exposed, especially in utero.”
Kate is making the most of her summer outside of the lab as well! She loves to go on hikes, watch movies, and spend as much time outside as possible, all of which she has been experiencing this summer in Clemson!
Disha Qanungo ’24
Senior genetics student Disha Qanungo is spending her summer volunteering at the Shifa Clinic, which is a medical clinic for uninsured and undocumented people and also serves as a food pantry for underserved people.
At the Shifa Clinic, Disha takes patients vitals, gets a history and an idea of why they’ve come to the clinic. In addition, she works in the food pantry packing boxes for families in need.
Occasionally, she will also assist the volunteer coordinator with planning for Health Fairs and other administrative tasks. Disha tries to squeeze in some fun as well, getting into some old hobbies.
I’ve been trying to get back into hobbies that I don’t normally have time for at school such as horseback riding, cooking, and art,” says Disha.
Disha is spending some of her summer horseback riding and painting.
Disha is originally from Cleveland, Ohio and is minoring in Biochemistry and Anthropology. Disha hopes to attend medical school and specialize in Gynecology, her long-term goal being to create free clinics for women and children in developing countries.
Dr. Madeline Santana (right) performs research at the Center for Human Genetics.
Dr. Madeline Santana came to the Department of Genetics and Biochemistry from the Dominican Republic through the Fulbright Foreign Student Program, a highly selective international academic exchange program that enables graduate students, young professionals and artists from abroad to study and conduct research in the United States.
Dr. Santana’s professional background is in pediatrics in the Dominican Republic, and she had always desired to expand her knowledge in the field of genetics. After the extensive application and interview process and being named a Fulbright Scholar, she chose to attend Clemson University.
“It’s been a dream come true to immerse myself in another culture and gain new knowledge for my career. Fulbright made this possible, and I will be forever grateful.”
Dr. Santana is completing her studies and research at Clemson’s Center for Human Genetics located in Greenwood, SC. She is part of Drs. Trudy Mackay and Robert Anholt’s lab, where they are using fruit flies as model animals to study human diseases, particularly neurological and substance abuse. Dr. Santana’s research specifically focuses on a hereditary neurodegeneration with brain iron accumulation.
“I have enjoyed being at Clemson Center for Human Genetics. There is a lot of camaraderie, exchange of ideas and a community sense.”
Both as a Fulbright Scholar and personally having a dedication that stems from a desire to contribute meaningfully to the well-being of her community, Dr. Santana holds a commitment to return to her home country and utilize the vast knowledge she acquired during her time abroad. Armed with advanced methods for diagnostics, treatment and prognosis, she aims to introduce innovative ideas and fresh perspectives to enhance her country’s health system.
“The Fulbright experience equips me with academic expertise and instills a sense of responsibility to effect positive change upon my return home.”
She says she will always cherish her time at Clemson, where she has expanded her knowledge in the field of genetics, navigated a new research field and became more organized and time efficient.
“This past year has been filled with invaluable experiences that have propelled my career forward. Meeting people from diverse cultures, all united by our passion for advancing science has been truly inspiring.”
Elizabeth Caldwell receives prestigious Truman award
In April Elizabeth Caldwell, genetics major and National Scholar, was named a 2024 Truman Scholar, recognized for her commitment to raising accessibility awareness and ambition to influence health care policy related to her rare disease research.
The Truman Scholarship, named in honor of the late U.S. President Harry S. Truman, is given to high-achieving college students who show commitment to public service and potential to continue that service beyond graduation.
Elizabeth is Clemson’s fifth recipient of the Truman Scholarship in 42 years and is the only student in South Carolina to receive the honor this year. She will receive up to $30,000 for graduate study, leadership training, career counseling and other opportunities within the federal government.
Originally from Hendersonville, TN, Elizabeth has been involved with the Accessibility Commission, Phi Delta Epsilon, the ASC Peer Tutoring Program, and the Clinical Undergraduate Research Experience in Surgery (CURES) course. In addition, she co-founded Tigers 4 Accessibility, Clemson’s only club that focuses on students with disabilities. Their mission is to increase inclusivity and accessibility on campus and within the greater Clemson community.
After falling in love with research while working in Dr. Michael Sehorn’s lab, Elizabeth decided to pursue a Dual Departmental Honors in G&B to culminate her research experiences into a thesis and solidify her findings. She hopes to integrate research into her future career as a physician and the departmental honors program has allowed her to build the skills necessary to succeed.
After graduation, Elizabeth plans to pursue an MD/MPH to intersect her passion for patient care, disability advocacy, and research, making a positive change in healthcare.
Honors College student and Breakthrough Scholar Katie Barfield named Dixon Global Policy Scholar.
Genetics and sociology double major, Katie Barfield, is one of the twelve Clemson University students that have been named a 2024 Dixon Global Policy Scholar.
Created through an endowment from the active Clemson family members, the Dixon family, the Dixon Global Policy Scholars program is a selective and intensive program for high-achieving Honors College students with a demonstrated interest in major national or global issues.
During summer of 2024, the scholars will take specialized courses on global perspectives on politics, economics, philosophy and public policy and participate in an intensive study abroad experience in France and Germany, where they will visit European institutions, important historic sites and museums, and meet with key policymakers, diplomats, academics and journalists.
The College of Science faculty and staff awards celebration was held Tuesday, April 30, 2024, in the Life Sciences Building atrium.
Two members of the Department of Genetics and Biochemistry team were honored with awards at the recent College of Science Faculty and Staff Awards ceremony: senior lecturer Dr. Kimberly Métris and office manager Meredith Bradley.
Dr. Kimberly Métris was awarded the College of Science Excellence in Student Engagement Award, which honors a faculty member who has demonstrated excellence in service and innovation in teaching, with emphasis on the most recent three years.
She has developed a Creative Inquiry, a new experiential learning course and a project with a new, unique presentation method, all while mentoring at least 30 graduated students. Dr. Métris’ students thrive in and out of the classroom with at least six of her undergraduate students conducting field, lab, and bioinformatics research and five winning university awards over the last few years.
A student wrote, “As I told Dr. Métris, she was truly born to teach.”
Meredith Bradley was awarded the endowed 2024 Hattie B. Wagener Award, which is named after Hattie Boone Wagener, a long-time administrative staff member at Clemson. The award recognizes an individual who readily and routinely exceeds stated job expectations and presents a positive work attitude.
Meredith came to the department with a wealth of experience in administrative support roles in business environments in October 2021 as the administrative assistant. Department chair David Clayton said he quickly came to appreciate her capacity for thinking strategically about what needed to get done, why and when.
In just a couple short years, Meredith was juggling two jobs for the department: one the role for which she was first hired and the other by covering more duties for the department’s human relations and payroll liaison. After the HR person resigned in summer of 2023, Meredith quickly stepped into the role while continuing to serve as the chair’s direct administrative assistant.
Meredith has become the go-to person for the faculty and staff of the Genetics and Biochemistry Department. She leads the office with purposefulness and consistently exceeds expectations.
Congratulations to both Dr. Métris and Meredith on their accomplishments. We can’t wait to see what you achieve in the future!
