Name: Mariel Burquez
Hometown: Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico
Hobbies: Horseback riding, hiking, baking
Lab: Evans Lab
What do you study?
I currently study pancreatic cancer, the immune responses it has within the body and potential treatments that could be used in the future. My other research interests include infectious diseases, specifically those that originate from animal to human transmission, known as zoonotic diseases.
Why is it important?
Pancreatic cancer has the highest mortality rate of all major cancers. Finding a treatment for this disease would be revolutionary and a beacon of hope to those facing the diagnosis. When it comes to infectious diseases, it is important to know that 60% of all emerging diseases (such as COVID-19) have animal origins. Learning more about these pathogens could help us avoid another future pandemic.
What piqued your interest in science?
I’ve always been an extremely curious individual. My love for animals guided me into vet school, but throughout my journey I realized how much I enjoyed working in a lab and being able to work on experiments that could change peoples’ lives.
What do you like about being a scientist?
I like being a scientist because I feel like I can put my problem solving skills to the test while making a difference in the world. I’ve always loved science and I love seeing how there’s always new discoveries being made.
What are 5 general vocabulary terms someone should know going into your field of science?
Pathology, oncology, endocrine, cell, inflammation
What are 5 specific vocabulary terms someone should know about your research?
Zoonosis, oncogene, neutrophil, fibroblast, bone marrow