Natural Sciences: Elias Dahl '25
Major(s) and minor(s)
B.S. Microbiology; B.A. Business
Minors in Biotechnology & Spanish
Hometown
Stonington, CT
Areas of interest/focus in research
Biophysics & Emergency Medicine
I currently work in the Meyer Lab where I'm focusing on a project investigating E. Coli stress responses by examining the internal mobility of Dps-DNA condensates using techniques such as optical tweezers, Fluorescence recovery after photobleaching, and computational analysis. Understanding the morphology and mobility of different Dps-DNA bacterial condensate types will provide us with a better understanding of stress responses in bacteria when they're threatened by environmental factors and antibiotic resistance across species. I also currently am an Emergency Department Research Associate (EDRA), where I assist in identifying and enrolling potential pediatric to geriatric participants for clinical research studies in the University of Rochester Medical Center Emergency Department.
Labs / departments / offsite programs where research was conducted
Current:
UR Department of Biology - Meyer Lab (PI: Dr. Anne Meyer)
URMC Emergency Department Research Associate (PI: Dr. Nancy Wood)
Previous:
URMC - Dziejman Lab (PI: Dr. Michelle Dziejman)
About me...
Hi everyone! My name is Elias and I'm a junior here at the University of Rochester. I'm from a small town in Connecticut, and in my free time I enjoy running, playing soccer, hiking, and watching Netflix (Currently watching Suits). I'm a surfer too!
Coming into University, I found myself with little to no prior research experience and a limited understanding of what research truly entailed. I knew I wanted to find opportunities in the field of biology, as my fascination with biology began with a remarkable high school coach who'd relate biological metabolism to training, which sparked my curiosity to research beyond what was taught in the classroom. This interest of mine was one of the driving forces behind my decision to attend the UofR: a top-notch research institution.
As a Research Ambassador, my aspiration is to inspire and guide others on their own research journeys. I want to be a part of the process that enables fellow students to realize their academic aspirations, all while witnessing the joy and pride that lights up their faces when they achieve their goals.
How has your experience as a researcher influenced your career objectives?
My experience as a researcher in both a wet-lab setting (non-clinical) and dry-lab setting (clinical) has really helped me understand academia as a whole. I work with inspiring researchers such as Dr. Meyer, Dr. Abbondanzieri, & Dr. Nancy Wood that challenge me to become the best version of myself everyday. And this is something I really enjoy. My research of working with bacteria to my work in the Emergency Department has inspired me to want to pursue a MD and work with infectious diseases, where I can challenge myself to help those in need.
Campus organizations, programs, activities, clubs, awards/distinctions
Campus Organizations:
Community Service Network (CSN): Secretary
Residential Life: D'Lion
Concert Choir: Bass Vocalist
TA/Workshop Leader (BIO 110, CHEM 203)
Awards:
Schwartz Discover Grant Recipient (2023)
Continuing student scholarship for undergraduates (2023)
Dean's Scholarship (2021-Present)
Dean's List (All Eligible Semesters)
Fun Fact: when I'm not doing research you can usually find me...
Outside running through the streets of Rochester, or in Carlson Library on the third floor.
Areas where I may be particularly helpful
Reaching out to PI's
Discover Grant Application
Clinical vs. Wet Lab Research
What advice do you have for prospective or new researchers?
Something I notice among many students is their uncertainty about where to begin when looking for a research laboratory. The Department of Biology at the UofR and the list of laboratories at the URMC are excellent starting points.
Moreover, don't hesitate to reach out for support and take full advantage of the available resources. Seek guidance from experienced peers, faculty members, and utilize the services provided by the Greene Center. These steps will facilitate the process.
Email me at: edahl2@u.rochester.edu