https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-luchs-16690524a/
Short Bio
My name is Matthew Pedro Luchs. I am from Williamsburg, Virginia. I majored in Computational & Applied Mathematics with a concentration in Mathematical Biology at William & Mary. Currently my work at UPR Rio Piedras Campus consists of developing a protocol for in vivo RNA interference in sea cucumber Holothuria glaberrima. I would like to apply to a PhD in Conservation Genetics in the future.
A fun fact or hobby: I can juggle using my hands and feet at the same time
Research
Mentor:
José García Arrarás, PhD
Co-mentor:
n/a
Project Title:
tbd
Project Description:
This project involves developing RNA interference protocols to knock down specific genes in Holothuria glaberrima, a highly regenerative sea cucumber. By silencing target genes during organ regeneration, we can identify which genetic pathways are essential for the ability to regrow entire organ systems. This genetic toolkit will advance our understanding of regenerative mechanisms with potential applications in regenerative medicine.