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?
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