Jonathan Millen
Postdoctoral Research Associate, The Goldfarb Lab
What are you currently researching?
I am currently investigating lifespan using yeast as a model system. My goal is to discover new components that can be used to treat age related diseases.
What do you enjoy most about working here at the U of R?
The people are the best part of the U of R. I have found that the staff are unbelievably helpful, the faculty are brilliant as well as approachable, and the students are talented, hard working individuals.
What was it that sparked your interest in biology?
From an early age my father enriched my childhood with science. He is not a scientist or educator himself, but the appreciation and wonder he finds in the sciences is infectious. In my teenage years I explored the sciences more and more on my own. I found that the complexity and elegance of life, specifically genetics, drew me in. By the time I had taken my first few biology courses at Penn State I had found my focus.
What is your favorite piece of lab equipment?
The BioScreen C automated plate reader for constant observation of yeast growth. Once set up it is totally hands free. Most of my current work would be very difficult without this growth curve tracking machine.
What advice would you give to prospective students looking to study in our department?
Hard work is only the beginning. To be truly successful you must be innovative. With so much creativity and opportunity here, the biology department is a great place to learn the skills you will need to innovate.
How do you unwind when you're not in the lab?
I love family time with my wife Melissa and my boy Charlie, although I am known to relax with a good bit of science fiction reading or a few hours of Minecraft.
What is one thing about yourself that you'd like more people to know?
I am interested and I want to help. I tend to keep to myself, but I really enjoy listening to people and helping them when I can.