Eric Schulze

Eric has a bachelor’s degree from Loyola University in New Orleans.  He became a graduate student in the PIBBS program the Fall 2006.  Eric is in his 4th year in the Genetics, Molecular, & Cellular Biology degree program and is mentored by Qilong Ying, at the Eli and Edythe Broad Center for Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research.

What is the research project you are conducting for your dissertation work?

I’m investigating the mechanisms of stem cell self-renewal—or how a stem cell decides to stay a stem cell.  We are using molecular and cellular techniques to study this.

What brought you here to USC and what do you like about being here?

I decided on USC and the Keck School of Medicine because I was impressed with the PIBBS program.  I was also attracted by the multi-cultural bent and by the emerging stem cell program. For the first 2 years, I was on a CIRM pre-doctoral fellowship.  The CIRM program has been a definite boon for stem cell research at USC and throughout California. I’ve also enjoyed being involved in several student leadership groups at USC. During the year I was president of the School of Medicine Graduate Student Association (SMGSA), I worked hard to bring the different graduate student groups on campus together.  I’m now the student representative on the Graduate Council.

What are your plans for your future?

I’m hoping to graduate next Spring.  I’ve been offered a fellowship at the FDA to study science policy.  I’m very interested in the promotion of science, and in making concepts in biology, for example, more accessible and understandable to the general public. 

How do you enjoy living in Southern California? 

I enjoy it very much.  Any place south of the Mason-Dixon Line and without snow suits me!  I was very fortunate that I left New Orleans just before Hurricane Katrina.  However, I enjoy going back there to visit friends and I’m gratified to see the city mostly recovered.