The UCSC Team

"I wanted to work on a diverse team in order to tackle a world problem,
especially one which would lead to a greener future." -Saumya Singh

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The Researchers

Mary Lenore Pafford, Bioinformatics Undergraduate




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Maximilian Genetti ,
Biomolecular Engineering Undergraduate
with a Bioinformatics minor

Originally from Los Gatos, California

Why are you at UCSC?

"Since my first biology class I have always been fascinated with genetics. It was when I was applying to colleges that I learned about how UCSC was involved with the Human Genome Project and what it was continuing to do with bioinformatics and single molecule detection that that I knew it was where I needed to go."

What do you like to do outside the lab?

"Scuba Diving is the best hobby I ever picked up. Everything from exploring the ocean at 60 feet down, navigating kelp forests, getting followed by sea lions, and struggling out of a cold wetsuit are all part of why I do it."

Renee Jocic (Captain)
Biology Undergraduate

Originally from Rancho Palos Verdes, CA

What interested you about iGem?

iGem gave me the opportunity to lead a team of undergraduates and participate in the experimental design of a research project. iGem is my starting line in making a difference. In the future, I intend to dedicate myself to alleviating the world's energy problems.

What do you like to do outside the lab?

I enjoy kickboxing, yoga and video games. I am a fan of the "Game of Thrones" series and classic novels by Hemingway and Fitzgerald.

Christopher Lee ,
Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology Undergraduate
Computer Science minor
Bioinformatics Minor

Originally from Riverside, California

What interested you about iGem?

"I wanted to join the iGEM after informally participating in last years project as a consultant. In addition, synthetic biology has been a rather small part of my time here at UCSC, and iGEM presented a perfect opportunity to learn more about it as a field."

What do you like to do outside the lab?

"My main hobbies include powerlifting and basketball, as well as discussing general health and nutrition."

Kaylee Walker ,
Biomolecular Engineering Undergraduate

Originally from Los Osos, California

What interested you about iGem?

iGEM gives a unique opportunity to become involved as an undergraduate in all areas of a research undertaking, from planning and fundraising to wet lab work; in our case, we are also striving to create a sustainably sourced biofuel, a topic of great interest and relevance.

What do you like to do outside the lab?

Outside of school, I enjoy art and music; specifically, I play the accordion and piano and try my hand at scientific and naturalist illustration.

The Mentors