A Spotlight on Professor Cawa Tran and the Way Symbiotic Relationships Have Led Her to Follow Her Passions

Dr. Cawa Tran, assistant professor of biology, studies symbiosis, specifically the connection between corals, sea anemones and microorganisms, and the algae and bacteria that live inside of them. But, symbiosis can also be seen as a metaphor for her life.

The symbiotic relationship between her and her parents - and their desire for her to excel in school and follow her passions. The relationship between her and her eighth grade science teacher at Wilson Middle School in City Heights that launched her interest in science. And the relationship between her and her students – a relationship she doesn’t take lightly and one that she looks to strengthen with each student that walks through her lab doors, ensuring these students feel a sense of belonging and mentorship while studying biology.

As a first-generation American, high school and college graduate and the first in her family to get a PhD, Tran is on a mission to make a difference with her research on coral reefs and, more importantly, create a welcoming environment for her students to grow, learn and see the impact they can have on the world with their research work, no matter how small.

Dr. Tran shared more about her inspiring story on USD Media Relations' At the Edge of It All podcast. You can listen to her podcast episode here.