GMS PhD Spotlight: Ellen Suder
Ellen Suder is a May 2025 PhD candidate in the graduate program in Virology, Immunology & Microbiology. Ellen’s dissertation research investigates how filoviruses such as Ebola and Marburg virus regulate their gene expression processes, focusing on the transcriptional activities of the filovirus-specific protein VP30. Ellen matriculated into GMS via the Program in Biomedical Sciences (PiBS). Learn more about Ellen’s journey below!
What did you complete your dissertation research on and how did you settle on that topic?
My dissertation research investigates how filoviruses such as Ebola and Marburg virus regulate their gene expression processes, focusing on the transcriptional activities of the filovirus-specific protein VP30. I was already interested in filovirus molecular biology, and I landed on this topic because it allows me to explore what mechanisms underlie some of the differences between otherwise very similar filovirus genera, which is an angle that I’ve always found to be an intriguing puzzle.
Why did you choose to do a PhD?
I chose to do a PhD because, frankly, I’m a nerd. The PhD process is part of the necessary training in scientific thought and research strategy that I knew I would need to pursue a career that I find fulfilling.
How would you describe a typical day as a PhD student?
Miss the BU shuttle because the buses are running off schedule again, take the next bus to the med campus, bring supplies into the BSL-4 lab, set up infection experiments, shower out of containment, run to a seminar with wet hair, eat lunch at some point, catch up on desk work, head to BSL-2 lab for transfections and staining slides, and eventually catch the bus home for dinner.
What is one of your best memories from the time in your PhD?
I have a lot of fond memories from my time in PiBS, and a good number of them involve me dragging my virus sister Callie (now Dr. Donahue, as of 2024) along to a concert of some sort.
Did you face any unexpected challenges during your time in your program? How did you overcome them?
The structure of academia favors a neurotypical brain, and those of us outside that criterion face unique hurdles in addition to the inherent difficulty of pursuing a doctorate; that these challenges are unsurprising does not mitigate their impact. In addition, the terminal illness and loss of a parent was both unexpected and extremely challenging. The understanding, adaptability, and support of my PI were indispensable factors in the successful completion of my degree in the case of both the intrinsic and external obstacles I faced.
What are your next steps?
Most of my original postdoctoral plans presumed a consistency of federal funding that no longer applies, so I’m currently expanding my search to a broader range of positions and locations. An academic postdoc in virology is my strong preference, but if I don’t find one then perhaps, I’ll join a circus.
Is there anyone in your life who inspired your decision to pursue this career path?
I have been remarkably fortunate to have a plethora of science role models throughout my life, which makes this a challenging question to answer. However, my undergraduate thesis advisor first introduced me to the possibility of working with viral pathogens in the niche I now occupy.
Do you have any advice for future PhD students or anything else you would like to share?
Get a cat. No series of failed experiments is depressing enough to preclude your day being improved by a purring warm critter in your lap.
What do you like to do for fun in Boston?
Outside the lab, I’m likely to be spotted knitting on the bus en route to the skatepark, roller skating to my partners’ place to play D&D, or flipping upside down in an aerial hoop at the circus studio (in case anyone wondered whether my alternative career plans were a joke, the answer is nope).