Ian Whiteside studies DNA telomeres in thesis research
Ian Whiteside successfully defended his thesis entitled "Effects of BORIS on Human Telomere Regulation and Stability" on November 20, 2020. Ian investigated how a transcription factor called BORIS regulates DNA telomeres and its potential role in cancer and aging. Dr. Kate Beishline is Ian's major professor. Serving as thesis committee members were Drs. Hare-Harris and Schwindinger. Ian's research was funded by a grant from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Biologists. He has presented his work at the College of Science and Technology Research Day, the PASSHE STEM conference at Kutztown University, and the Tri-Beta Northeast District 2 Convention.
Ian earned a BS in Biology, molecular biology option at Bloomsburg University. As a graduate assistant in the masters of science program, Ian assisted in the Cell Biology laboratory and tutored at ABLE. He is a member of Tri-Beta Biology Honor Society. Ian served the campus community is many ways assisting with Husky Decision Day, Homecoming, COST Research Day, Open Houses, and Publicity. He was a mentor to several undergraduate researchers. Ian plans to purse a career in the biotechnology or pharmaceutical industry.