Grace Foley
Role: I'm currently studying for a BSc Biochemistry with a Year in Research at Imperial College London
Subject area: Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences
Nationality: American
I'm originally from Brooklyn, New York, and I moved to London a few years ago to pursue my undergraduate studies at Imperial. I am currently doing a 12-month research placement at the National Heart and Lung Institute as part of my BSc. During my time at Imperial, I have served as the UNICEF on Campus Fundraising Officer and the Interfaith Welfare Officer, and during my final year, I will serve as the president of Imperial College Catholic Society.
Education
GCSE (or equivalent): High school diploma
A-level (or equivalent): My Advanced Placement (AP) classes included Biology, French Language and Culture, US History, Chemistry, English Literature and Composition, US Government and Politics, Calculus, Computer Science, Physics: Mechanics, Physics: Electricity and Magnetism, and 2-D Art and Design
Degrees
• BSc Biochemistry with a Year in Research (ongoing), Imperial College London
Detail about Claudia
My research
As part of my current research placement at the NHLI, I am testing gene therapy approaches to treat pulmonary alveolar proteinosis, a rare lung disorder.
My inspiration
My cousin’s daughter has cystic fibrosis, so she inspired me to research gene therapy for lung diseases so that I could help people like her.
Who is your STEM hero?
Gregor Mendel, a Catholic monk and botanist who discovered the laws of inheritance through his experiments on pea plants. His work shows that interests in science and religion can complement each other, which is important to my identity as a Catholic student at Imperial.
Most significant discovery/invention?
The sequencing of the entire human genome with the Human Genome Project.
Career options after study
After I complete my undergraduate degree, I plan to pursue graduate studies that could allow me to stay in academia or become a genetic counselor with the NHS.
My hobbies
My hobbies include embroidery, pressing flowers, cooking Sunday dinners with my friends here in London, and taking walks to the Brooklyn Heights Promenade with my mom when I am back home.