Ian and Camille Thorpe
Positions: Graduate students in the Kellogg School of Science
and Technology at The Scripps Research Institute.
Any Relation?: Brother and sister.
Year Ian Began Graduate Work: 1999
Year Camille Began Graduate Work: 2003
Why Camille Came to Scripps Research: "Ian told me it was a good
place," says Camille.
Ian adds, "The institute offers a great environment for research. Scripps
takes good care of its students and there is a tremendous amount of research
and biotechnology in the San Diego area."
Research Interests: Ian is working with Professor Charles Brooks
III in the field of theoretical and computational chemistry and biophysics.
"We're looking at the enzyme dihydropholate reductase, figuring out how
mutations away from the active site affect how the molecule works. I'm
also working on a project that examines the link between binding and flexibility
as an antibody evolves to increase its affinity for a ligand."
As a first-year student, Camille is completing rotations. "Ian gave
me lots of good advice on which labs to work in," she says. "I am most
interested in medical research using a variety of research tools."
Background: The Thorpes grew up in the small town of Mandeville,
Jamaica, with a father in mechanical engineering, a mother in accounting,
and a middle brother, who has pursued computer engineering. Both Ian and
Camille came to the United States for college—Ian to the University
of Miami, and Camille to the Florida Institute of Technology.
Similarities Between Ian and Camille: "We share values," says
Ian, "and we share an interest in music, art, movies, and theater. Sometimes
we usher together at La Jolla Playhouse so we can see the shows."
Differences: "Ian is more outgoing," notes Camille.
Rapport: So far the siblings have enjoyed each other's company
in San Diego. "We live a block away from each other and we get together
on weekends," says Ian. Can this bond survive as Ian teaches Camillle
to drive?
Go back to News & Views Index
|
