From RIT Bioinformatics to Research at Yale University

Building on a research journey that took shape at RIT, Serena Tuytschaevers ’24, ’25 is now pursuing a Ph.D. in computational biology and biomedical informatics at Yale University. Her days include coursework, working on projects, reading papers, and meeting with her advisor and research group. She also connects with peers outside her group and attends talks and seminars that broaden her perspective.

“Most of my time is spent learning, asking questions, following my curiosity, discussing ideas, and working through research problems,” she said.

Serena was drawn to RIT because bioinformatics gave her a way to combine two interests: biology and the problem-solving side of computer science. At the time, few colleges offered bioinformatics as a major, making RIT stand out during her college search.

Undergraduate research had the biggest impact on Serena’s RIT experience and prepared her to pursue a Ph.D.

Serena recalls, “One thing I really appreciated about RIT is the variety of ways students can get involved in research.” She took advantage of the undergraduate research opportunities through coursework, through an independent study, and through a Fulbright Canada-Mitacs Globalink Research Internship.

These experiences gave me an early opportunity to explore questions that didn’t have straightforward answers and taught me how to think critically, work independently, and become comfortable with the uncertainty that comes with research,” she said.

“Looking back, they gave me an important foundation for graduate school and helped me see research as something I could pursue as a career.”

Mentorship was also an important part of her RIT experience. Serena credits her thesis advisors, Dr. André Hudson, Dr. Renata Rezende Miranda, and Dr. Emiliano Brini, as well as faculty in the bioinformatics program, with encouraging her to think critically, develop new skills, and grow as a researcher.

“Having great mentors and professors at RIT has played a huge role in shaping me into the researcher and student I am today,” she said.

“My biggest piece of advice would be to stay curious and take advantage of the resources around you,” she said. “Pursue research opportunities, even if you are not sure where they will lead.”

She also reminds students that they don’t need to have all the answers. “It is also okay to say, ‘I don’t know, yet.’ You are not expected to have all the answers, and being willing to ask questions and learn is an important part of growing as a student and as a professional.”

For students interested in bioinformatics, Serena recommends getting involved with RIT’s Bioinformatics Club as a way to connect with students, faculty, and alumni and learn more about the field. Serena advises connecting with the bioinformatics alumni community to learn from their career paths.

Her final advice is simple: “Keep asking questions and stay curious. You never know where that curiosity might lead you.”