Danielle Renee Montoya

Majors: Biology, Global Studies

Research Mentor: Dr. Theresa Rogers

What was the focus of your research?

The level of antibiotic resistance in bacterial pathogens has increased dramatically due to the misuse and overuse of antibiotics in medicine and agriculture.

My research was on antibiotic resistance in bacteria found in the Hill Canyon Wastewater Treatment Plant and surrounding waterways. Using molecular and genetic methods, I investigated how some bacteria can transfer genes conferring antibiotic resistance to other bacteria.

How was your research experience?

The Swenson Science Summer Fellowship helped me to learn more about what to expect out of the trial and error process and how to encounter the unexpected in a lab setting. It taught me patience and allowed me to express creativity with my ideas.

What’s next?
I’m applying to medical schools and plan to specialize in emergency medicine with a focus on natural disaster relief.