Allison Kuipers
Born and raised
Lancaster, PA
Current Hometown
Grand Rapids, MI
Favorite Movie and/or musical group/singer?
Pop/rock/R&B from the 90s and 00s (so I guess that means oldies)
Favorite Color
Blue
Favorite sport to play or watch?
Football (American)
What do you like to do in your free time?
Cook, bake, read, play with the kids outside, bike (stationary and not)
What is the most interesting/enjoyable place you have visited?
I really enjoy spending time at my husband’s family cottage near Traverse. When I need a break from the cold, we love Jamaica.
What is the most helpful advice you have received?
You are allowed to say No (or at least take time to evaluate the request before saying Yes)
How did you become interested in your field? Was there a specific moment when you knew it was the right fit for you?
I went into undergrad thinking that I would go to medical school. But in my sophomore year, I started a student job in a Molecular Epidemiology Lab and realized that research was where I wanted to be. Epidemiology was the right fit because I still wanted to have impact and direct focus on human health.
What/who influenced you to select your area(s) of study and how has that impacted your career?
During my doctoral work, there was a position open on the Pitt Epi NHLBI T32 for which I applied and was awarded the position. I knew I wanted to integrate genetic/molecular techniques in my work from my experience in the molecular epidemiology lab as a student worker.
Describe your current research or area of interest
I currently work primarily in the subclinical CVD space. I work with a research study on the Caribbean Island of Tobago where we have measures of carotid ultrasound, vascular calcification, echocardiography, arterial stiffness and peripheral artery disease. I am also interested in identifying molecular (genetic, transcription, protein, etc.) determinants of CVD risk in unique populations.
What advice would you give to a student?
While the details and day-to-day can get overwhelming, remember why you went into this area in the first place. Try to keep your overarching goals in mind when making decisions about your future and considering opportunities.