Ricardo Perez
Name: Ricardo Perez
Age: 40
Major: Human Genetics
Class: Doctoral
College: College of Sciences
Hometown: Freer, TX
High School: Freer High School
Why UTRGV?
I was recruited to UTRGV from the University of Washington Virology Department to be a part of the 1st cohort in the Ph. D in Human Genetics program, and I’m so glad they did! Our program has world-renowned experts in the field of genetics, and we have so many cool projects going on. We have our own MRI machine for research, the largest colony of laboratory opossums in the world, CRISPR projects, an amazing stem cell/organoid lab, etc. – there is bound to be something that interests most STEM majors.
What made you decide on your current major?
Working in Virology during the pandemic was a big part of my passion for biomedical research. I’ve always been fascinated by “gene-environment interactions,” even though I didn’t know that’s what it's officially called before joining the program. Trying to understand how the environment modulates our genes is a major component of what our department focuses on, whether it’s the food we eat, the air we breathe, or “social determinants” of health like education or income level.
What do you hope to achieve beyond completion of your major?
I plan to work for NASA to understand how the environment of space impacts the health of astronauts. I hope that my contributions to science help make humans a “space-faring” civilization.
What do you like most about UTRGV?
Being a part of the 1st cohort in this program, there is so much I like from my experiences over the last 3+ years. Having access to professors with so much knowledge, experience, and connections all over the world has been a big bonus. The opportunity to choose from various projects within the department was such a blessing, and having the program on the Brownsville campus is the best.
What does being a Vaquero mean to you?
Being a Vaquero means so much to me, and I’m thankful that UTRGV will be my Ph. D alma mater. Seeing all that UTRGV does for the students and the community, it’s hard not to feel proud of what UTRGV is doing for the Rio Grande Valley.
What opportunities has UTRGV helped you find throughout your community?
I’ve participated in so many events, coaching, and mentoring in various business competitions. I am active in student organizations, perform SCUBA/Scientific Diving with Marine Biologists, and I am the host of “RGV Community Health Hour” on Vaquero Radio. I’ve been able to get outside my comfort zone in a multitude of ways.
What advice do you have for fellow students pursuing their degrees?
My advice to students is to take advantage of their “student status” as much as possible. I know it can be hard with obligations outside of academia, but the hard truth is that if you’re not going the extra mile by participating in everything you can, you’re missing out on so much.