This series spotlights the post-baccalaureate, or post-bac, members of the YSPH Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases (EMD) department. These are researchers who have excelled in their undergraduate and masters studies, and have not yet completed doctoral-level research. Along with our faculty spotlight series, our theme this month is respiratory diseases. Here, Kelly Laing tells us about her pathway and some of her exciting research in a Q&A format.
Post-baccalaureate researcher spotlight series: Kelly Laing
Please tell us a little about yourself and what inspired you to pursue a post-bac position in the EMD Department at the Yale School of Public Health?
I am currently a CDC Ferguson RISE fellow in the Grubaugh lab. Even though I’ve always known that I love science, for various reasons I didn't have the “typical” straight-to-university-and-into-research path. After a winding path back into college, I thought ”I want to be a doctor” but I’ve been pushing that back for a few years to keep pursuing research. I think I finally realized I love research and want that to be a huge part of my career! So the inspiration was really just following my instincts and doing what I love.
What is the current focus of your work/research?
We’re currently working on developing a tiled amplicon scheme (more information here: https://www.nature.com/articles/nprot.2017.066) for sequencing human metapneumovirus (HMPV). Even though HMPV is one of the most common respiratory viruses, there’s not a lot of information about it out there.
What are some of the most significant findings or innovations from your respiratory pathogen research?
Tiled amplicon sequencing is innovative because it allows us to get better and more complete genomic data from lower quality samples so we can better understand things like transmission and spread.
Which emerging trends or technologies in respiratory pathogen research do you find most exciting?
I think the emerging trend in research I find most exciting is communication and inclusivity. I love the idea of looking at these really complex subjects and presenting them in a way that people from all backgrounds and abilities can understand and ultimately benefit from.
Where do you see the field of respiratory pathogen research heading in the next few years, and what role do you hope your work will play in this future landscape?
In public health, I believe there’s a shifting focus to look at communities as a whole. Our research enables us to get a more complete picture of how viruses spread and how they impact the community. We’re also very focused on making these data more available and accessible, which is something I’m particularly passionate about.
How has the EMD Department supported your research, academic, and professional goals?
In so many ways! Not only is everyone in my lab an incredibly supportive mentor, the entire EMD department offers endless opportunities and resources for research, academic, and professional development. My favorite has to be the weekly seminars. Sometimes I get so lost in the details that I can forget the big picture, and the seminars always remind me of how important research is and how much I love it. They’re also a great way to connect with professionals outside of the lab!
What advice would you give to prospective students considering applying to post-bac positions in EMD at Yale?
Follow your passion! I applied for many other (arguably more “exciting”) positions but decided on a post-bac position at Yale because it was the most exciting position for me. I knew I wanted to be in an environment where I could do what I love and be surrounded by passionate and brilliant people. I feel incredibly lucky to be part of such a wonderful lab!