About Me 

I was born in Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico, and moved to El Monte, California about 20 years ago. I received my Bachelor's degree in Natural Science at the California State University of Los Angeles (CSULA). I spent two years in Dr. Yixian Wang's research lab, where I studied Parkinson's Disease. After receiving my Bachelor's degree, I moved to San Francisco State University (SFSU) to pursue my Master's in Biology with a Concentration in Cell and Molecular. I joined Dr. Pleuni Pennings' CoDE lab, which focused on studying the evolution of antibiotic resistance in Mycobacterium Tuberculosis. This fall, I will start my Ph.D in the Integrative and Evolutionary Biology PhD program at the University of Southern California (USC). I will join Dr. Michael Campbell's lab to study human evolution. 

My long-term goal is to become a professor that fosters diversity and inclusivity. Ultimately, my goals as a scientist are to inspire future scientists, use my knowledge to discover new ways to improve human health and provide guidance and support to prospective students and mentees.

Picture taken at the Washington Monument

My Accomplishments

Master of Science - Biology (Cell and Molecular) - San Francisco State University (Summer 2024) 

It is finally official. I have received my MS degree. 

Coming to San Francisco State University for my Master's degree was the best decision I have ever made. From the very beginning, I have been so supported and loved. Through all my highs and lows, I have always had mentors I can count on. I know I wasn't alone. I want to express my deepest appreciation to my research advisor, Dr. Pleuni Pennings, for the guidance and support throughout my Master's program and the research process. I want to thank Dr. Scott Roy, Dr. Cathy Samayoa, Dr. Noelle Anderson, Bradley Bower, MaryGracy Antony, and everyone from the CoDE lab. I also want to thank the entire Student Enrichment Office (SEO), including Dr. Megumi Fuse, Dr. Frank Bayliss, Stephanie Bazarini, Precious Bowes, Makenzy Carr, and Lynn Anderson. To all of you, Thank you so much. This degree was supported by Genentech Foundation Scholar #G-7874540.

Distinguished Achievement Award for Academic Excellence - SF State (Spring 2024)

Every year, the SF State University selects graduate students from each of the six colleges to receive the award of Graduate Award for Distinguished Achievement. I received this award for the College of Science & Engineering.

I've been accepted to USC!

I am really excited to announce that I have been accepted to the Integrative and Evolutionary Biology PhD program at the University of Southern California (USC). I will join Dr. Michael Campbell's research lab, where I will use wet and computational skills to study human evolution. 

Student Project Showcase Annual Research Competition - May 2023

College of Science and Engineering (CoSE) - San Francisco State University

Project Title: "Antibiotic Resistance and Plasmid" 

MaryGracy Antony, Marisol Fermin Flores Jacqueline Valentino, Pleuni Pennings, PhD.   

Master's life Science Category: 
*Third Place Winner Poster Presentation*  

Left to Right: MaryGracy Antony,  Jacqueline Valentino, Marisol Fermin Flores (Me)