Marissa Elizabeth Davies

  • Senior, Music and Biological Sciences double major

I began my undergraduate career at UW-Milwaukee studying clarinet performance with the esteemed Professor Todd Levy. In my sophomore year, I realized that my passion was to research cancer biology rather than perform onstage with an orchestra. I decided to study music and biology and it has been a rewarding experience.

At UWM, I have been fortunate to participate in upper-level biology courses where I have learned about relevant, ongoing research. I studied abroad in Kassel, Germany in the summer of 2018 and improved my German while interacting with other university students from around the world. As a musician and scientist, I am honored to accept admission to Phi Beta Kappa, an honor society that emphasizes the importance of the arts and sciences.

Several faculty members have guided me in my path including Dr. Jennifer Gutzman, Dr. Claire de la Cova, and my advisor Dr. Ava Udvadia. This summer, I am honored to participate in SPARCC, a cancer research program at the Medical College of Wisconsin. After graduating this December, I hope to pursue a PhD in Cancer Biology and eventually work towards better treatment options for cancer patients.