Alumni Spotlights
Brooke Grimaldi '18
Employer
Postdoctoral Research Fellow
LinkedIn Profile
https://www.linkedin.com/in/brooke-grimaldi-phd-46862411b
1. Tell us about your journey since graduation.
Since my undergrad, I have always been unsure of what I wanted to
do for my career. I just always liked science and continued pursuing
it. In my Junior year, I decided to apply for the combined BS/MS
program, and with the support of my mentors (Dr. Khoo and Dr.
Dietrich), I was accepted. I also did a master's thesis in Dr. Khoo's
lab which was such a great experience that I single-handedly attribute
to setting the stage for my success in my PhD. Even though I was
hesitant about the next step of my future, I applied to PhD programs
after lots of convincing from my family and mentors. I embarked on my
PhD journey at Michigan State right after graduation from GVSU in
2018. There were many many challenging times but completing my PhD was
the most transformative time in my life and I realized that I just
love being a scientist. I graduated in 2022 with my PhD in Genetics
and have since been working at Van Andel Institute as a Post-doctoral
Research Fellow. My research now is focused on epigenetic mechanisms
that are established in early development and impact later-life
disease susceptibility. Most days I think, "I can't believe this
is my job". I'm just so thankful to have gotten to this point and
I'm grateful for all the support from the professors in the GVSU CMB
department because they helped create the strong foundation of the
scientist (and person) that I am today.
2. Share a favorite Grand Valley memory.
I have so many great memories working in Dr. Khoo's lab! Those
were the best times.
3. What's the best piece of advice you've ever received?
Always bet on yourself. Time will still go on, whether you pursue
a higher degree or not. Never assume anything, ever!
4. List three words you would use to describe your Grand
Valley experience.
Rewarding, Fun, and Supportive
5. What difference would you like to make in the world?
I hope to discover mechanisms of why people get disease (and what
separates those who don't) and to develop better diagnostic and
treatment strategies to eliminate overall suffering worldwide!
June 2024
Interest Area(s)
Cell and Molecular Biology
Categories
West Michigan
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