Congratulations to Molecular Genetics major Mitchell Ticoras, who was recently named a 2021 Goldwater Scholar. The Barry Goldwater Scholarship and Excellence in Education Foundation was established by Congress in 1986 and is awarded to sophomores and juniors demonstrating potential for success in a research career in the sciences, engineering, or mathematics. Mitchell was the only OSU student who was awarded this prestigious scholarship this year. Mitchell has been working in the lab of Dr. Patrice Hamel for several years, examining mitochondrial function in Chlamydomonas. We asked Mitchell to tell us a bit more about his experiences in Molecular Genetics.

Could you tell us a little about your research and your long-term plans?
I study the first enzyme of the electron transport chain located in the mitochondria called complex I (CI) using a unicellular green alga named Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. More specifically, I look at how mutations in genes that influence CI function affect energy production and reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation in cells. Currently, I am examining two different CI mutants and working to identify their specific molecular lesions in an effort to understand the functions of the affected proteins. In the future, I aim to obtain a Ph.D. in genetics and then become a principal investigator who combines the fields of genetics and the environmental sciences in an effort to help solve pressing issues like soil erosion and greenhouse gas related climate change.

What experience(s) stand out for you at OSU?
Obviously, my time spent in the laboratory has been amazing and unlike anything I had experienced prior to my arrival at OSU. I have also loved attending Molecular Genetics Club meetings every few weeks to hear about different innovative research projects and career opportunities happening around Columbus and across the rest of the country. Lastly, it is hard not to love a classic football Saturday at “The Shoe” with some friends. There is something about the adrenaline rush of 100,000+ people screaming O-H-I-O that always makes me excited to come back for more!

What are your favorite things about the Molecular Genetics major?
My favorite aspect of the Molecular Genetics major is the community that exists amongst its students. OSU is a large institution with a lot of people walking around campus each day, so being part of a smaller major with students who prioritize maintaining a sense of camaraderie is really fun to be a part of. I have also enjoyed my interactions with the MG faculty. Not only have I found that they are respectful of us students, but I have yet to meet a Molecular Genetics professor who is unwilling to take time out of their day to help their students in whatever capacity they may need.

What advice would you have for new students at OSU?
This is going to sound pretty cliché, but I do not think I can overemphasize it enough: don’t be afraid to ask questions. It doesn’t matter if you are in class, at a research presentation, or even sitting in a dining hall, asking questions will open doors for you at OSU. Most professors are passionate about what they’re teaching/researching and reciprocating genuine interest in that topic only makes them more excited to interact with you. Moreover, most students are incredibly friendly and more than willing to give you directions to your next class or talk to you about this or that, just take a leap and ask!

Congratulations to Mitchell!