Jacob Johnson

Background

About Jacob Johnson

My scientific career began at Iowa State University’s Pesticide Toxicology Laboratory. I have held various roles and responsibilities throughout my five years in this lab, while simultaneously refining my research interests. I am very fortunate for these opportunities, especially within the ISU Department of Entomology, as my progression through the lab’s positions and projects carved my love for academia, prepared me to be an independent scientist, and shaped my interest in biomedical sciences. I know that my extensive first-hand experience in the scientific process will prepare me for a rigorous doctoral degree.My experiences range from greenhouse technician, staff research associate, technical supervisor, teaching assistant, and toxicology graduate research assistant. I am currently focused on elucidating the mode of action of experimental chemicals on the insect nervous system. Knowledge of this process will aid in the development of insecticides to protect public health and agriculture. My research ambition is to study the immune system and how it interacts with infectious diseases. However, I am also interested in other areas of biomedical science including pharmacology, neuroscience, and biochemistry.Once I finish graduate school, I aspire to gain postdoctoral experience in infectious diseases, utilizing my immunological and toxicological background to support human medicine and public health. My career goal is to establish a research laboratory focused on developing low-cost tools to combat the spread of diseases in developing countries. I am excited to use my extensive scientific experience as I carve my own path in a doctoral program where I solve pressing biomedical problems.