Sara Colando is a dedicated senior at Pomona College, where she is pursuing a double major in mathematics and philosophy. Her unique academic focus allows her to explore the intersection of statistics and ethics, particularly in the realm of data science. As an Undergraduate Research...
Sara Colando is a dedicated senior at Pomona College, where she is pursuing a double major in mathematics and philosophy. Her unique academic focus allows her to explore the intersection of statistics and ethics, particularly in the realm of data science. As an Undergraduate Research Assistant, Sara is currently engaged in a pivotal project analyzing ChIP-seq normalization techniques, which are crucial for understanding biological data derived from high-throughput sequencing technologies. Under the mentorship of Professor Jo Hardin, Sara is not only contributing to this research but also integrating it into her mathematics thesis, highlighting her commitment to producing rigorous and reproducible scientific work.
In her role, Sara employs advanced programming skills in R to create simulations that reflect both the biological and technical assumptions underlying ChIP-seq data analysis. This work is essential for ensuring that the methodologies used in genomic studies are both accurate and reliable, which is increasingly important in the age of big data analytics. Additionally, her proficiency in MySQL and Python enhances her ability to manage and analyze large datasets effectively, while her experience in machine learning allows her to apply innovative techniques to solve complex problems.
Sara's interdisciplinary collaboration skills are evident as she engages with peers and faculty across various fields, fostering a rich environment for knowledge exchange. Her passion for ethical data practices drives her to advocate for responsible data science, ensuring that statistical methodologies are not only effective but also aligned with ethical standards. As she prepares to transition from academia to industry, Sara is poised to make significant contributions to the fields of data science and bioinformatics, where her unique blend of skills and insights will be invaluable.
