Elissa is a DDS/PhD student at the University of Washington School of Dentistry. Before entering dental school, Elissa spent time at the McLean lab as an undergraduate research assistant. She carries out various experiments such as 16S metagenomic sequencing and DNA extractions. She is currently a second year dental student. Elissa has always had an interest in research since the start of her undergraduate career, and will continue her PhD in Oral Health Sciences after obtaining her DDS. Outside of school and the lab, Elissa greatly enjoys rock climbing, farmers markets, and hiking.