Jeremy Aguilar
Class of 2026: Biology Major (Genomics Concentration)
Pronouns: He/Him
Current Research Project: I have been working in the Matsunami Lab, focusing on the study of
olfaction. Mainly, "deorphanizing" olfactory receptors (ORs) by finding their ligand pairs, aiding
in the deciphering of the olfactory code. As for my current project, I am focusing on testing
SNPs found within ORs, according to GWAS, are believed to be responsible for olfactory and
gustatory phenotypic variation. Thus, through in vitro assays, I can determine the validity of
these claims and possibly uncover the ORs and SNPs responsible for certain dietary
preferences.
How he got involved with research: I was in Project Research my freshman year, so I was
exposed to the many opportunities Duke had in terms of starting research as an undergrad.
Then, with the knowledge I attained, I was able to find a position within the Matsunami Lab,
allowing me to obtain many helpful wet and dry lab skills needed for a potential career in
academia