2009 National DNA Day Online Chatroom Transcript

This is just one question from an archive of the National DNA Day Moderated Chat held in April 2009. The NHGRI Director and many genomics experts from across NHGRI took questions from students, teachers and the general public on topics ranging from basic genomic research, to the genetic basis of disease, to ethical questions about genetic privacy.

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What would someone do after getting their undergraduate degree if they were inclined to study DNA or genetics?
     Eric Green, M.D., Ph.D.: My research areas include: mapping, sequencing, and comparing eukaryotic genomes; using genome sequencing to study the genetic basis of human diseases. Many options:
  • Get a job working in a genetics laboratory.
  • Become a genetic counselor.
  • Get a PhD and become a genetics researcher.
  • Get an MD and become a medical geneticist.
  • Become a computer scientist and help us interpret information about our genomes.

The field of genetics has a huge tent, and we need many talented people to come join us in this ever-growing field.
Scranton Preparatory School in PA (10th grade student)

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