Ryan Scalsky
Contact Information:
ryan.scalsky@som.umaryland.edu
Training Program:
Medical Scientist Training Program & Graduate Program in Life Sciences – PhD
Epidemiology and Human Genetics, Molecular Epidemiology Track
Mentor(s):
Joana Carneiro Da Silva
Summary of the Research Project:
Highly efficacious malaria vaccines have evaded development for nearly 100 years now. The goal of my project is to use a combined in silico and in vitro approach to identify and validate Plasmodium falciparum antigens that evade current whole-organism malaria vaccines. The identification and incorporation of these antigens into future whole-organism vaccines may dramatically increase vaccine efficacy.
Education:
BA in Biology, BS in Psychology, Minor in Philosophy, University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC)
Achievements and Honors:
-
Member, American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene
About me:
I’m currently an MD/PhD student and I went to UMBC for my undergrad after moving to the Baltimore area from St. Mary’s County in southern Maryland. Outside of school and work, I enjoy maintaining fish tanks with live aquatic plants, spinning fire poi, and playing many different instruments. My current musical focus is composing bossa nova, samba, and salsa music as I love Latin percussion. Let me know if you know any cuica, berimbau or conga players!