GMS PhD Spotlight: Emily Lewkowicz
Emily Lewkowicz is a Biophysics PhD candidate in the lab of Professor of Pharmacology, Physiology & Biophysics Olga Gursky, PhD. Her dissertation research focused on the structural basis for the interactions of amyloids with their cofactors.
Emily defended her dissertation, “Structural Basis for the Interactions of Amyloids with their Cofactors,” in March 2024 and will graduate in May 2024. Read more about Emily below!
What did you complete your dissertation research on and how did you settle on that topic?
My dissertation research focused on the structural basis for the interactions of amyloids with their cofactors. The Gursky Lab is generally interested in how various molecules influence amyloid nucleation, growth and morphology. My project used both experimental techniques and computational methods to explore these topics. Experimentally, I explored the effect of heparin and phospholipids on amyloid formation by the protein serum amyloid A. Computationally, I modeled the interactions of apolipoproteins with Alzheimer’s amyloid-β fibrils.
Why did you choose to do a PhD?
I decided to do a PhD to deepen my scientific knowledge, learn new skills and ultimately, expand my career opportunities.
How would you describe a typical day as a PhD student?
As a junior student, I spent a large part of my time in class or studying, with the afternoons reserved for doing experiments in lab. As a senior student, I split my time doing experiments or computational work, meeting with my PI to talk about current projects or manuscripts and working as a TA and tutor for the first-year courses.
What is one of your best memories from the time in your PhD?
My favorite memory from my time as a PhD student is when I travelled to the island of Spetses, Greece to attend a weeklong conference on amyloid research. The location was beautiful, and it was a great opportunity to meet amyloid experts and students from around the world.
Did you face any unexpected challenges during your time in your program? How did you overcome them?
I joined GMS in Fall 2019, and everything shut down in Spring 2020 just as I was supposed to do my last rotation and start my research project. My first few months in the Gursky Lab were entirely remote, which is why we decided to add computational elements to my project. I ended up learning many new skills, and the project resulted in multiple publications.
What are your next steps and your plans for your future?
After BU, I plan on staying in Boston and working in the biotech industry.
Do you have any advice for future PhD students or anything else you would like to share?
My advice is to make friends with the other PhD students in your cohort. It will make grad school a lot more fun, and it is really helpful to have a support system that knows exactly what you’re going through.
What do you like to do for fun in Boston?
In Boston, I enjoy going to comedy shows and concerts, and trying out new cafes and restaurants.