Ryan Host

Where did you transfer from?

North Dakota State University

Why did you want to come to the University?

I transferred to the University of Minnesota because it is one of the best research universities in the United States. They can offer me undergraduate research opportunities that I would not have at NDSU. Also, the College of Biological Sciences really challenges its students, which I feel will better prepare me for the future.

What are you researching?

I am researching muscle regeneration in extraocular muscles. We are comparing the surface area and central nucleation of limb and extraocular muscles in mice via microscopy and ImageJ software to research the effect of MyoD, a protein associated with muscle regeneration.

What have you gotten out of this experience?

Not only have I learned a lot about anatomy and physiology of extraocular and skeletal muscles, but I also learned stuff about how labs function here at the University. I have learned a lot about research as a whole and how it functions in the scientific community. It has opened up new area of interest for me. 

What are you interests outside of school?

Baseball, fishing, and golf.

Do you participate in any extracurricular activities?

I volunteer and am involved in pre-pharmacy club.

What are your plans for the future?

Right now I am working on getting a biochemistry degree. One day I would like get into a pharmacy program here at the University. After that, I would like to work in a hospital or rural pharmacy and one day own my own pharmacy.

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