Isie Hinrichs

Undergraduate

I’m currently an undergraduate at USC studying Computational Neuroscience, and I am incredibly excited to join the Tsai Lab and contribute to efforts to explore drivers of pediatric cancers. My introduction to research began with assisting in the development of a low-cost biologic therapeutic for cholera, where I worked on cell line development. That experience sparked my interest in translational science, and I later joined a lab at UCSD focusing on elucidating how intrinsically disordered linkers regulate PKA activity and how these dynamics influence cellular signalling. Looking ahead, I hope to pursue a career in medicine or the health sciences, where I can integrate research with patient-centered care. Being part of work that connects scientific discovery and clinical impact is what continues to drive me forward.

Research interests: I am (and continue to be) fascinated by how tightly regulated biological processes are, and how even the smallest changes in our genome can profoundly alter cellular behavior. I am especially interested in understanding how these disruptions propagate tumor development and progression, and how deeper molecular insight can inform more precise therapeutic strategies.

Favorite food: Steamed eggs & rice (lavishly topped with chili oil and scallions)

Beverage of choice and protocol for preparation: Double matcha latte: 2 tsp matcha, whisked w/ a few spoonfuls of 25 °C water, and finished w/ 2% milk.

Favorite lab technique: Molecular cloning, but TBD as I learn more!

Hobbies: Baking comforting desserts (currently experimenting with ube and matcha), playing tennis/piano, discovering new dinner spots with my family, and writing/illustrating children’s books.