My name is Kaylee Petraccione and I am an enthusiastic and dedicated PhD student in the Biomedical and Veterinary Sciences Program. My PhD project in Dr. Kylene Kehn-Halls lab focuses on identification of viral-host protein interactions for broad spectrum therapeutic development with initial studies targeting Rift Valley fever virus. In addition to lab work, I am passionate about engaging in scientific outreach opportunities in low income areas. I am motivated to increase scientific education and awareness of college and career opportunities. Additionally, this year I served as the GPSS Research Symposium Chair in which I successfully planned and executed the 39th Annual GPSS Research Symposium. This symposium fostered a collaborative opportunity for Graduate and Undergraduate students at Virginia Tech to present their research learn about the interdisciplinary work taking place at Virginia Tech. My time at Virginia Tech is a pivotal chapter in my life where I aim to engage in cutting edge research, collaborate with interdisciplinary faculty, and actively participate in outreach activities in the community.
My primary motivation for pursuing Graduate school is to deepen my knowledge and expertise in the field of virology to make a long term meaningful impact on therapeutic development for human health. I am focused on viruses that cause significant outbreaks in developing countries as I am highly motivated to increase therapeutic availibility and education on preventing virus spread in these areas. I aim to advance scientific knowledge through my research project for contribution to a healthier society.
My past experiences in life had a huge impact on my preparedness for Graduate School. I am a first-generation college student and the daughter of an immigrant from Alife, Italy. I was faced with several challenges throughout my life that have taught me perseverance. One striking challenge was going sudden unilateral deaf during my first semester of Graduate School, it was difficult adjusting to life without the sounds I have always heard and completely changed my learning experience. I had to learn to quickly adjust and utilize this as a motivation to focus on research. This is one example of an obstacle I faced that formed my preparedness through teaching me how to adapt and be flexible in new environments.
I think the greatest challenge that Graduate students face is imposter syndrome. Imposter syndrome in graduate students typically manifests as self doubt, comparison to others, and belief that achievements are luck. I have dealt with this challenge by focusing on my personal growth and celebrating the achievements of others around me. I also try to set realistic goals for myself and when I am inevitably faced with rejection I remind myself of the achievements and capabilities I have.
I absolutely would want to be one of the scientists on board! Astrovirology is a growing field. I would contribute the knowledge I have gained about virology on earth to understanding Mars viruses and help my fellow space habitants.
I find balance by utilizing google calendar and my planner. It is so important to make time for life outside of academics while still completing your academic tasks. I utilize a task list and plan my calendar out daily to embrace as much balance as I can day to day.
My most meaningful academic relationships have been with my undergraduate PI, Dr. Michelle Barthet, and my graduate PI, Dr. Kylene Kehn-Hall. Dr. Barthet was my first introduction to the field of molecular biology and Virginia Tech as she obtained her PhD from VT. Her enthusiasm and knowledge is what led to me pursuing a PhD at VT. Dr. Kehn-Hall serves as a role model, mentor, and inspiration as I study Rift Valley fever virus in her lab and she has inspired me to pursue a future career in academia. I am beyond lucky to have these two aspirational women in STEM to look up to and recieve feedback from.
My favorite comfort food is sauce and I consume it at least weekly. My dad is from Alife, Italy and my mom always cooked delicious pasta sauce growing up. I have many happy memories centered around eating pasta sauce with my family and when I eat it I feel comforted and reminded of my families love no matter how far apart we may be.
My favorite way to reduce stress is through running. I am currently training for the Hokie Half and a Run Disney Half marathon. I find that running is a great way to wake up and clear my mind in the morning before starting work.
I study Rift Valley fever virus, a virus that has mainly caused outbreaks in Africa. It causes upwards of 90% death in young animals and 30% death in adult animals leading to a big impact on the economy due to meat trade being a major income source. In humans, virus symptoms range from a mild flu-like ilness to a more severe disease including hemorrhagic fever and encephalitis. My project focuses on understanding how this virus interacts with humans through protein-protein interactions to develop vaccines and therapeutics.
I think there is a very high value in networking with graduate students in unrelated fields. At Virginia Tech, graduate students are uniquely positioned to have a lot of interdiscplinary collaboration. Having individuals from other fields provide perspective on your project can provide a new lens for you to think about your project with. Interdiscplinary work leads to new questions, new ideas, and even new projects. There is also a value in having friends outside of your field because it forces you to occasionally take a break from talking about your field and find balance in your academic journey.