My name is Holly Dixon, and I am a new PhD student in the Dept. of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology (EMT) at Oregon State University (OSU). I grew up in Lake Oswego, Oregon and completed my undergraduate degree in Biology at the University of Puget Sound in Tacoma, Washington in 2014.

During my undergraduate career, I had the opportunity to complete a nuclear forensics internship at the Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) and a chemical mixtures internship at the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. By completing summer internships, I not only discovered that the field of toxicology is the perfect blend of my biology, chemistry, and research interests, but also that one of my career goals is to better understand people’s environmental exposure to toxicants.

I am excited by all of the opportunities I have had at OSU so far – both in my classes and research. I cannot wait to gain more specialized knowledge in toxicology and take part in a long-term research project.  Through the EMT program’s supportive and motivated environment, I know I will grow as a student, researcher, and collaborator.   I am currently working in Dr. Kim Anderson’s lab and learning about her different SRP projects (Project 4).

Recently I had the privilege of being recognized as an OSU ARCS Scholar. This award is for a new PhD student in the College of Agricultural Sciences. As an ARCS Scholar, I receive a stipend for three years to support my graduate studies.

Outside of studying and conducting research, I enjoy playing tennis and exploring the Pacific Northwest. I look forward to spending the next few years in Corvallis.