Natural Sciences: Maggie Hoare '24

Major(s) and minor(s)

BS in biochemistry major

Minor in philosophy

Hometown

Honeoye Falls, NY

Areas of interest/focus in research

Biochemistry, proteomics, mass spectrometry

Labs / departments / offsite programs where research was conducted

I am a student researcher in the Ghaemmaghami lab in Hutchison Hall.

About me...

Hello everyone! My name is Maggie Hoare, and I am a junior studying biochemistry from Honeoye Falls, NY. I joined the Ghaemmaghami lab in my second semester of sophomore year, and my research has focused on studying protein folding stabilities and enhancing the oxidative repair of proteins. Currently, I study mechanisms to enhance the oxidative repair of methionine to prevent the accumulation of oxidized proteins. I focus on how covalent modifications on the N-terminus of methionine affect its reduction by these repair enzymes. My other project consists of studying mechanisms to selectively add modifications onto certain amino acids, which can be quantified by mass spectrometry.

How has your experience as a researcher influenced your career objectives?

I came to the University of Rochester as a prospective Cell and Developmental Biology major on the pre-med track. Through my experience as a student researcher, I have discovered my passion for biochemistry and research. This experience has led me to not only change my major to biochemistry, but also change my future educational plans to pursue a PhD.

Campus organizations, programs, activities, clubs, awards/distinctions

I am a Schwartz Discover Grant Recipient, a tutor, and a teaching assistant for biology and chemistry courses.

Fun Fact: when I'm not doing research you can usually find me...

Exploring new coffee shops and boutiques in the city of Rochester!

Areas where I may be particularly helpful:

I can help with interview preparation, presentations, and Discover Grant applications.

What advice do you have for prospective or new researchers?

Do not let your nerves about getting started in research hold you back! I wanted to get started in research earlier, but I thought I needed to take more courses in the field I wanted to conduct research in. After being a student researcher for over a year, I have realized that the most important thing to have before starting research is a passion to learn and work in your field of interest. There is always someone who will train you, and research is all about learning! Passion is more important than extensive prior knowledge when beginning to explore potential research avenues. Email me at mhoare@u.rochester.edu.