Owen O'Reilly

ABOUT THE RESEARCHER:

1. Who are you doing research with this summer and what kind of research project are you doing?

I am working with Dr. Bruist this summer. We are doing molecular dynamics simulations of viroid RNA.

2. What do you find fascinating in the research you’re doing?

I've always been fascinated with how computers can be applied to biochemistry and molecular research, and this lab combines all of those into one endeavor.

3. What skills are you learning through the USURF experience?

I am learning how to effectively use the AMBER molecular modeling suite, molecular visualization program Chimera, and general biochemical information on RNA and viroids.

4. What are the challenges you’re encountering in your research?

The main challenge is knowing how to problem-solve when faced with a computer issue or glitch. I've had issues with both Chimera and the AMBER suite that I had to Google and email my way through solving, and some of those processes have been extremely time consuming.

5. How is your USURF experience impacting the way you view your field?

It's definitely giving me some good perspective on how much actual computer work a computational biochemistry field would require. I feel like I might actually need some more courses/experience in computer science after doing this internship.

6. Tell us something interesting about yourself.

I wear a collection 18 rubber bracelets on my wrist daily that I've collected over 10 years