William (Billy) Mills is an Assistant Professor of Biology in the School of Science, Mathematics & Technology at Mount St. Mary's University. He completed his undergraduate training in biochemistry at the University of Virginia and his graduate training in biological chemistry at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine in the laboratory of Dr. Mollie Meffert. As a part of his graduate thesis, Billy developed biochemical (CIMERA-seq) and computational (SCRAP) methods for studying interactions between microRNAs and their targets in vivo. These methods are used by the Mills Lab to study how microRNAs impact cellular biology during the processes of differentiation, development, and disease. In addition to conducting laboratory research, Billy is passionate about training the next generation of scientists. Billy has taught courses in chemistry and biology to hundreds of students, mentored numerous trainees in the laboratory, and is always looking for ways to make science more accessible.

Oluwaseyi (TJ) Femi-Falodun is a Biochemistry major and Honors student at Mount St. Mary’s University. She serves as a Head Tutor, supporting peers in various subjects. Passionate about the life sciences and their intersections with data science, she is eager to apply computational approaches to better understand complex biological systems. She plans to pursue dental school after graduation. Through her work in Dr. Mills’ lab, she hopes to bring together her interests in biology, chemistry, and data analysis, gaining research experience that will strengthen both her scientific foundation and future career path.

Madison is a junior at Mount St. Mary's majoring in Neuroscience with minors in Data Science and Theology. After graduating from the Mount, she aspires to earn a Ph.D. in Computational Neuroscience. As a D1 distance runner, Madison balances rigorous athletics with academics while developing resilience, discipline, and leadership. She is passionate about brain research and AI, and seeks opportunities to explore the intersection of neuroscience and technology. Grounded in faith and a drive for excellence, Madison aims to contribute to projects that foster innovation and make a meaningful impact.

Nancy is a freshman at Mount St. Mary’s University majoring in Biochemistry and exploring human biology with a focus on the chemistry of the body. She joined Dr. Mills’s lab to deepen her understanding of her coursework through research. A national medalist in the SkillsUSA 2023 Medical Math competition and a licensed CCMA and CNA, she is a dedicated and versatile learner. Nancy is also a peer tutor for biology and chemistry and plays Division I rugby for her university, balancing academics and athletics to build discipline. She plans to attend medical school and pursue a career that bridges clinical practice with research.

Interested in doing research as an undergraduate? Please reach out to me (w.t.mills@msmary.edu) so we can find a project that aligns with your interests and prepares you for post-graduation pursuits!

Prerequisites:

• Curiosity

• Desire to learn

• Positive attitude