Perla Aramburu, Senior, Mathematics, 2021

Research Program: MURPPS
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Javier Arsuaga
Research Title: Applications of Computational Homology to the Analysis of Copy Number Changes in Breast Cancer
Hometown: Bay Area, San Mateo
Three words to describe me: Friendly, Optimistic, and Persistent

What are your future plans and/or goals?

Pursue both a Teachers Credential and PhD in math. Teach at both a high school, community college and get experience in mathematical medical research in study of bio mathematics.

In what ways has engaging in undergraduate research impacted your future goals and plans?

I was always interested in applying math into anything medical related that would better our health system. Engaging in undergraduate research gave me more of an insight to the research environment. I was able to distinguish wether research is something I would actually enjoy investing my time and energy in. It impacted my future goals and plans in better preparing me to what is expected of me as a graduate student conducting research.

What contribution(s) will your research make to your field of study?

I want to pursue conduction research in bio mathematics. It applies mathematical concepts to biological topics for example using graph theory to understanding breast cancer tissue, which is the research I am currently working on.

What preparation and research experience did you have before applying to your research program?

Before applying to my current research lab I did gain relevant preparation through MURPPS as to how to communicate well with my team, advisor, and research.

Personal achievements/accomplishments or other news and information:

I also received the opportunity to be our lab webpages web developer.

What advice do you have for other undergraduate students seeking research experiences?

Before you contact your professor make sure you've done extensive research on the professor research, education, and overall who they are/what they do. When contacting them be professional, enthusiastic and eager to learn together. Learn how to work well in a team but also independently.

Perla has to say about the MURPPS program:

"Not only do we prepare you in gaining knowledge conducting research, but also knowledge in who you are as a scientist."

What else would you like us to know about you?

Some of the things I love the most are God, going on food and nature adventures, meeting new people, and spending quality time with family, friends, and my boyfriend.