Grace Estep

What are you are studying/what you are interested in studying and/or researching while at Purdue?

I have been a part of Dr. Wisecaver’s research lab in the Biochemistry department of the College of Agriculture at Purdue University for the past year, including full time in the summers of 2021 and 2022. As a part of this lab, I research the “golden algae” Prymnesium parvum, which has been causing toxic algal blooms in increasing areas of the United States over the past decade. My current project is focused on how we can quantify the toxicity of different strains of algae.

What made you want to join the Leading Women Toward Space Careers program?

I have always been fascinated by the concept of space and the people who explore and learn about it. When I was young, being an astronaut was my dream career. Since then I have developed other interests and areas of focus, but a space career has remained a dream that I would love to someday fulfill in the context of my current studies and developing skills.

What area would you like to work in after graduation? (What career path, interests, opportunities, etc., would you like to accomplish? What field are you interested in?)

I am interested in the field of environmental science and sustainable resources, and I enjoy working with plants and learning about ecosystems and the living world. One of my greatest goals is to make a lasting difference in the ability of the human race to use our resources in a sustainable way which benefits both ourselves and the planet on which we live. Towards this end, I plan to pursue a Ph.D. in environmental science or a related field.