Samuel DeSantis
Laboratory Technician, The Seluanov Lab
You work in a laboratory. What are you currently researching?
Our lab investigates the molecular mechanisms behind aging and cancer in a variety of unique species like the adorable Naked Mole Rat. These little guys live an exceptionally long time for rodents and are extremely resistant to cancer.
What do you enjoy most about working here at the U of R?
The people! It’s wonderful to work with a group of such passionate, motivated, and diverse students, professors, and staff.
What advice would you give to prospective students looking to study in our department?
Don’t be afraid to approach professors and try something new. Every lab has something different to offer and the U of R biology department is a very welcoming place.
What’s the most important thing that you’ve learned working here and/or studying biology?
How to work with different types of people. Everyone brings something different to the table and offers unique perspectives on any given problem. Learning to work effectively and efficiently with a large lab has taught me valuable interpersonal skills.
How do you unwind when you’re not in the lab?
I love to run and bike outside (when the 91×ÔÅÄÂÛ̳ weather allows for it), play music with my friends, and check out local concerts and nightlife on the weekends.