Daria, Graduate Student / Research Assistant at University of Southern California: Advize Career Interview
A career in scientific research, as exemplified by a University of Southern California graduate student and research assistant, offers a dynamic blend of hands-on laboratory work and intellectual challenge.
Early experiences in undergraduate labs, even at the high school level, provide a foundation for success, building skills in techniques like western blots and immunohistochemistry.
A graduate program allows for increased independence and the opportunity to design and conduct experiments, although patience and meticulous attention to detail are crucial to overcome the challenges of troubleshooting.
The ability to transfer skills, think critically, and effectively communicate are highly valued.
Entry-level positions exist for undergraduates in research labs or bioinformatics, with a PhD opening doors to greater leadership and intellectual engagement in the field.
This rewarding career path offers flexibility, intellectual stimulation, and a chance to make impactful contributions to science.
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Daria Timonina
Graduate Student / Research Assistant
University of Southern California
University of Arizona / 2015
University of Southern California
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Biology & Related Sciences
Healthcare
Research and Development (R&D)
Honors Student, Immigrant, First Generation College Student
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Career Path Of A Graduate Student At University Of Southern California
Daria's career path began with a required pharmaceutical lab internship during their undergraduate studies at the University of Arizona, where they gained "wet lab work" experience. Following this, two years at Massachusetts General Hospital expanded their skills, including "mouse experiments," before pursuing a PhD in the biology of aging at the University of Southern California, a program they are now completing in their fifth year.
Main Responsibilities of a Graduate Student Research Assistant at University of Southern California
As a graduate student and research assistant, Daria's responsibilities include conducting "wet lab experiments," such as "western blots or immunohistochemistry," to support the principal investigator's research while also furthering their PhD project. This involves attending lab and institutional meetings, listening to presentations from internal and external speakers, and seeking collaboration opportunities.
A Day In The Life Of A Researcher At University Of Southern California
Daria's day as a graduate student and research assistant at USC varies, depending on the lab, but often involves a flexible schedule; today's activities included "bench work," specifically "immunohistochemistry," involving preparing slides for visualization, alongside writing, reading, and experimental planning. The overall experience reflects a balance of hands-on lab work and academic tasks, showcasing the typical blend of practical research and theoretical study in this career path.
Most Important Skills For A Graduate Research Assistant At USC
Prior laboratory research experience is crucial, with opportunities available even at the high school level to learn "different techniques," building independence as one progresses in their career. The ability to transfer skills learned in one technique to another is also a significant advantage.
Favorite Parts Of Being A Graduate Research Assistant At University Of Southern California
Daria enjoys the flexibility and independence of her graduate student/research assistant role at USC, stating that "there's quite a bit of flexibility," allowing for self-directed work and career planning. This autonomy extends to research, as Daria appreciates "being able to look at what I wanna look at and then do the types of experiments I want to."
Biggest Challenges Faced by a Graduate Student Researcher at USC
Daria's biggest challenge as a graduate student research assistant is troubleshooting experiments that "don't work," spending "months" on this process and working "long hours" to achieve results. The iterative nature of the work, while frustrating at times, is ultimately rewarding when experiments are successful.
Favorite Parts of Working in the Science Industry as a Graduate Student Research Assistant at University of Southern California
Daria, a graduate student and research assistant, finds the "intellectual stimulation" of the scientific process most rewarding, noting it fosters personal growth and critical thinking skills. This involves applying scientific rigor to discerning "truth versus what is out there," a skill applicable beyond biology and valuable in their career trajectory.
What Type Of Person Thrives In The Research Industry According To A Research Assistant At University Of Southern California
Daria, a graduate student and research assistant at USC, highlights the diversity of personalities that can succeed in their industry, emphasizing that patience is key due to the "long and tedious" nature of the work. Success also hinges on meticulous attention to detail and organization, allowing for careful tracking of experiments and samples.
What A PhD Student At University Of Southern California Wishes They Had Known Before Entering The Research Industry
Daria, a graduate student and research assistant, notes a significant difference between undergraduate lab experience and PhD work, explaining that "as an undergrad or a technician, you're doing a lot of what someone else tells you to do," while PhD work demands "more of the thinking behind the process." This highlights the critical shift from technical execution to independent research and analysis in the progression of a scientific career.
Entry-Level Positions for Aspiring Research Assistants at USC
Undergraduate students seeking entry-level positions in this field can find roles as "research assistants or technicians" in labs, or leverage "coding experience" for bioinformatics positions analyzing "mass amounts of data." The interviewee notes that bench work is another option, though a PhD is often pursued to achieve greater intellectual engagement and project leadership.
College Experiences That Helped A Graduate Research Assistant At USC Succeed
To achieve career success, undergraduate experience in a research lab is crucial, providing "a lot more training" and direct mentorship. Learning diverse techniques and practicing them repeatedly ensures long-term retention, benefiting future career endeavors.
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