Matthew So was amazed at the seemingly endless complexity of the immune system after taking an immunology course as an undergraduate. This led him to learn more about the immune system, how immunological research is performed and the future of the field. After spending two years working in a lab with his own independent project and being a teaching assistant, he quickly found he enjoyed everything about researching and teaching, prompting himself to pursue a doctorate in biomedical sciences.
So earned his bachelor’s degree in biology in 2019 from Missouri State University in Springfield. He entered university initially to pursue a career in medicine, but later reconsidered and realized his true passions. He received his Master of Science degree in biology in 2021 also from Missouri State University under Christopher Lupfer, PhD, exploring the role of the immune system in developmental disorders. He also began working at a genomics laboratory performing laboratory testing for SARS-CoV-2 during 2020 at the start of the pandemic. His overall goal is to have his own lab where he can perform biomedical research.
“The core facilities and resources at St. Jude are extraordinary, with top-of-the-line technology like advanced flow cytometers, onsite sequencing, and genome editing technology that would support my immunology research interests,” says So. “The renowned faculty, some founding labs in their respective fields, clinical research applications, and unmatched student support at St. Jude have blown me away and shown me that I belong here.”
Hometown: Rolla, Missouri