Gabriella Smith

Professional Background

I was born and raised in Hoboken, New Jersey, a small, mile-square city on the Hudson River.  I decided to commute into NYC for high school, enjoying its energy, competitiveness, and diversity.  My first exposure to scientific research was through a mentorship program at the American Museum of Natural History in which I worked with Dr. Sara Oppenheim on identifying the genetic basis for a major field crop pest’s feeding behavior (Heliothis virescens).

I subsequently attended Columbia University and pursued a dual major in both Chemistry and Philosophy.  My interests were wide ranging, including computational molecular analysis of diradical reactions, teaching general chemistry through multiple TA positions, and specialization in environmental chemistry.  I had the privilege to work as a research assistant at the Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory (LDEO) under the tutelage of Dr. Martin Stute on a project that assessed the viability of using environmental tracer gases to monitor carbon dioxide dynamics for the purposes of carbon sequestration.

After graduating from college, I decided to pursue a master’s degree in Bioethics at Columbia University, wanting to strengthen my ability to navigate the increasing number of ethical issues that arise from the intersection of science, technology, and medicine.  I chose to focus on neuroethics, writing my graduate thesis on the ethics of brain-computer-interface-based enhancement within the military. 

Outside of my studies and research, you will probably find me swimming, practicing yoga, or heading to the archery range with my compound bow.  I also love to read, particularly ancient Greco-Roman literature and science fiction.