Genetics & DNA Research with Cornell Researcher

Taught By

Dr. Sarah Daly

Dr. Sarah Daly is a Postdoctoral Researcher at Cornell University with a Ph.D. in Agricultural and Biological Engineering from Purdue University. Her work focuses on data-driven approaches to biological and public health systems, including microbial ecosystems and large-scale data modeling—fields closely tied to modern genetic and DNA research. At Cornell, she leads interdisciplinary research projects, publishing in peer-reviewed journals and applying advanced tools such as Python, R, and machine learning to analyze complex biological data. In addition to her research, Dr. Daly is a dedicated mentor who has guided students in research design, data analysis, and scientific writing—helping them build strong academic profiles for competitive college admissions. An accomplished science communicator with over 50 publications and a growing online platform, Dr. Daly is passionate about making complex scientific concepts accessible and inspiring the next generation of researchers.

Week by Week Curriculum

Week 1: Introduction to DNA applications in Health Research

Learn DNA and genetics fundamentals and how they apply to modern health research
Explore examples of genome-based research across body systems and infectious disease
Begin the background section of your research paper by identifying a body system and related health issue

Week 2: Introduction to Public Health Datasets and Data Analytics Tools

Get introduced to public health DNA datasets and core data analysis tools
Practice using databases like BLAST, KEGG, and NCBI to locate genes in your area of interest
Research five relevant genes and document their sequences, functions, and biological significance

Week 3: Literature Review, Methods, & Hypothesis Design

Study scientific literature review strategies, hypothesis development, and research methods
Narrow your focus from several candidate genes to one gene for deeper investigation
Develop a testable hypothesis and outline methods to validate it

Week 4: Design and Data Collection

Refine your hypothesis and study design through group discussion and instructor feedback
Use DNA visualization tools to create figures and tables for your project
Investigate your hypothesis with genomic databases and summarize your early results

Week 5: Analyzing your Data, Conclusions, and Figures

Analyze findings and strengthen the conclusions, title, keywords, and visuals in your paper
Learn revision strategies, scientific ethics, and how to give constructive peer feedback
Revise your full draft, write future directions, and prepare your final presentation

Week 6: Peer Review, Presentations

Deliver a 5-minute presentation on your final genetics research project
Participate in peer review by giving and receiving feedback on final papers and presentations
Conclude with a final Q&A and discussion of key research takeaways