Megan Williams

Hello! My name is Megan Williams, and I am going into my fourth year at Carleton University in the Bachelor of Health Sciences program with a concentration in Biomedical Sciences. My favourite part of science is being able to understand how things work and how things can go wrong to make you sick, which is undeniably why my research interests fall into cellular and molecular biology. My previous research experience was working to understand the molecular effects of a TRNT1 mutation which has been commonly linked to SIFD, a rare pediatric mitochondrial disease. This research opportunity further shaped my appreciation for molecular biology and the complexity of cell interactions within various pediatric diseases. Through the Amgen Scholar program, I will have the opportunity to work with Dr. Christoph Licht’s lab whose research investigates complement-mediated kidney diseases, adding to my experience within the world of molecular biology. Some of my academic goals include going to medical school to earn my MD as well as graduate school so that in the future I can work in both worlds of clinical practice and research. I believe there is great importance for translational medicine and would like to continue to bridge the gap between research and patient care. My interests outside of academia are being active and enjoying the outdoors. Lately I have really enjoyed just being outside and I try to go for lots of walks or bike rides with my friends as often as I can. I’ve also gotten really into rock climbing and have made it a goal of mine to be able to go climbing outside at least once this summer!