Lana Purdy

Class of 2027

Education: BS in Biological Sciences with Distinction at the University of California, Santa Barbara; MS in Biological Sciences at Cal Poly

Biography: 

Lana's interest in regenerative medicine began through her undergraduate research using human iPSC-derived cardiomyocytes to investigate whether male and female cardiac cells respond differently to conditions associated with heard disease. She is especially interested in using patient-dervied iPSCs to investigate disease mechanisms, with the goal of identifying new therapeutic targets. After completing the program, Lana plans to pursue an MD/PhD and a career as a physician-scientist, combing patient care with translational research to develop more effective treatments and improve patient outcomes. 

Lana is currently completing her internship in Dr. Nicole Coufal's lab at the University of California, San Diego.