Hi, I’m Isra!!!
I am a graduate student in the Whipple Lab with a strong interest in Molecular Biology and Therapeutics. I received my B.S. in Biochemistry and Microbiology from the Universidad del Valle de Guatemala and completed a Post-Bacc at the University of Pennsylvania, where I worked with the J-Rad Lab on the interplay between metabolism, circadian rhythms, and cellular maturation.
I was born and raised in Guatemala, and being the first in my family to come to the U.S. to pursue a Ph.D. has been an exciting, challenging, and fun journey. In addition to my research, I am passionate about supporting underrepresented students in STEM fields and promoting science outreach. I enjoy engaging in activities that make science accessible and exciting, and I love introducing kids to science and volunteering. Outside of the lab, you can find me acting, watching musicals, enjoying nature, and building community.