Zachary Pappalardo, BS

I received my B.S. degree in cell and molecular biology from San Francisco State University. As an undergrad I studied non-coding DNA regulatory elements in the Lab of Dr. Ahituv at UCSF. Having gained inspiration in studying genetics and its implication in human disease, I am now fortunate enough to be working in the McManus lab studying RNA-mediated regulation of genes involved in the Insulin pathway in pancreatic Beta cells. I am working with Dr. Gregory Ku to perform a genome-wide siRNA screen on these Insulin producing cells to discover novel genes involved in this critical metabolic pathway, with the aim of gaining some insight into the mechanisms of Diabetes. Apart from my interest in studying human disease, I value the importance of environmental conservationism and have a keen interest in pursuing both an academic and professional career in renewable energy and biofuel technologies. When I am not studying biology, I am usually playing my guitar or attending some concert in Golden Gate Park.