Samantha Meyo
Student Manager, North Dining Hall
Pfrender Lab
I graduated from the University of Notre Dame in 2025 with a B.S. in Biological Sciences. As an undergraduate, I worked with researchers from other institutions on studies examining surgical outcomes in non-small cell lung cancer and on projects focused on kidney transplant education. At Notre Dame, I worked in the Agrelius Lab studying the scarlet mutation in Daphnia magna, which causes locomotive dysregulation and neurotransmission abnormalities. Currently, my research interests lie in epigenetics. In the Pfrender Lab, I am investigating how high salinity affects DNA methylation in Daphnia magna and whether this environmental change confers a maternal effect advantage. After completing my master's degree, I plan to attend medical school, where I hope to apply my background in molecular biology to clinical research and patient care.
Biography
Concentration: Biomedical Sciences
Research: I am a member of the Agrelius Lab working with Daphnia (water fleas).
Post-graduation plans: I currently plan to attend medical school. As of right now, I aim to become an urologist, although I expect this to change once I am exposed to the vast options for careers in the medical field.
Favorite Biology/ES course: My favorite major requirement is Organic Chemistry. I found this course challenging at first, however, at some point the material just clicked for me and everything made sense. Possibly the most rewarding feeling after a good month of struggling. My favorite elective is Cancer Immunotherapy with Dr. Lu. Learning about what has to go perfectly wrong for cancer to form made me appreciate the human body and its defense systems.
Extracurriculars: Biology Club, Aging With Grace, North Dining Hall student manager, and Interhall Sand Volleyball. My favorite activity I participate in is Aging With Grace. We travel to nursing homes and assisted living facilities to present information to the residents that they will actually find interesting and helpful to make their remaining years more enjoyable.
Advice for freshmen Biology majors: Prior to coming to Notre Dame, I was insistent I focus only on my studies during my first year. No clubs, no sports, nothing! I was so certain that I would not have the time. Well let me tell you, you will have the time, no matter how daunting the list of courses you need to take seems. I highly suggest you join at least one club your first year, especially one that you will genuinely enjoy and that is not just something to put on your resume.
Fun/interesting fact about yourself: I have US and Canadian citizenship and have lived in both countries.
Favorite part about Notre Dame: The network of alumni willing to help Notre Dame students. If you need any career-related help, all you need to do is get in touch with your local chapter of ND alumni. They will be more than willing to help.