As a biochemistry undergraduate at NC State, Sarah Ermatinger focused on predicting phenotypes from genotypes in Dr. Seth Faith's forensic science lab. During summers, she continued her lab work and analyzed virulence factors of pathogenic bacteria at the Research Triangle Institute in Dr. Cavanagh’s microbiology lab.
She came to get her Biochemistry PhD at Duke right out of undergrad, and now working in the Oas Lab, focuses on Staphyloccoccus aureus biofilm infections and evaluating their mechanisms. Sarah’s long-term goals are to contribute to how S. aureus biofilms are formed and to build a wide network with other scientists in her field.
Most importantly, Sarah feels the department provides a wealth of support for everyone’s research and success and fosters a real sense of community. Its small size allows students and faculty to get to know one another, especially during biochemistry social gatherings (during non-COVID times). Outside the department, there are Duke groups that connect students across the university.
Sarah has taken advantage of living in Durham. She enjoys the calm downtown bar scene and can drive 30 minutes to Raleigh or Chapel Hill if she wants something a bit rowdier. Being someone who likes the outdoors, Sarah has also discovered lakes and bike trails in and outside the city. But when she wants to get away from the pressures of school, Durham is an easy drive to the beaches of Wilmington and mountains of Ashville.
Read about some of other PhD students.