Hometown: Tri-Cities, Washington
Major: Microbiology
Expected graduation: Spring 2026
Adia Pincheira is a microbiology major in the College of Veterinary Medicine’s School of Molecular Biosciences from Tri-Cities, Washington, who will graduate in spring 2026. She is specializing in molecular biology and is a participant in the MARC (Maximizing Access to Research Careers) program, a National Institutes of Health–funded initiative that provides two years of academic and research support for undergraduate students from the biomedical and behavioral sciences.
The program is designed to strengthen students’ preparation for high-caliber PhD programs and careers as leaders in biomedical research. Through MARC and her work in Dr. Heather Koehler’s laboratory, Pincheira is gaining hands-on experience studying virus–host interactions while building a strong foundation for graduate school and post-baccalaureate research opportunities.
What initially drew you to your major?
When I was younger, I used to watch a show called “Monsters Inside Me” on TLC, which focused on real life experiences with pathogens. The idea of something microscopic that I couldn’t even see, really fascinated me and I wanted to learn more.
Who has been the most influential mentor or professor during your time at WSU?
My most influential mentor and professor has been Dr. Yimo Liu at the WSU Tri-Cities campus. She has always supported me from day one, and her support allowed me to have the confidence to apply for the MARC program and continue pursuing higher education.
Have you had any opportunities to work in a lab or conduct research while at WSU?
I am currently a part of Dr. Heather Koehler’s lab, and being a part of it has been wonderful. Getting to partake in a lab that is interested in virus host interactions is right up my alley and has continuously reignited my passion for science when times have felt tough. Being a part of this lab has allowed me to grow both as a future researcher and as a student.
What advice would you give to someone thinking about majoring in a field within the College of Veterinary Medicine?
My advice is that it is OK to feel lost, but that you need to talk to someone about it. I bet you anyone you’ve ever met has felt “lost” at some point, but by having the support of others you can find the right path for you.
What’s your favorite thing about WSU?
My favorite thing about WSU is the sense of community here. When I first got to Pullman, I was very nervous about not having any friends, but I have made some lifelong friends, and faculty or students I’ve spoken to have been mostly welcoming to me.
What are your post-graduation plans?
My current post-graduation plans are to partake in a post-bac program to gain more research experience before applying to graduate school. My WSU education will help me as I have an amazing support system here full of mentors who are ready to help in any way possible. The MARC program is focused on helping students get into PhD programs and guidance for any type of applications has really helped me with all the writing graduate school or post-bac applications have.
What hobbies or extracurricular activities have you enjoyed at WSU?
I think my main hobby has to be cooking. Since moving here and living on my own for the first time, I’ve felt very inspired to try new dishes and recipes. I’ve also tried a little bit of baking, but that is definitely not my strong suit. Through cooking I feel that I’m able to ground myself in my reality, and that’s really important when you’re both a student and an undergraduate researcher.
What’s a fun or surprising fact about you that most people wouldn’t guess?
A fun fact about me is that my mother used to run her own cattery! She raised, bred, and showed Persian cats so I’ve always had cats growing up and I love them so much. I currently have two cats, Nina and Illumi, who are exotic shorthairs, so they look like Persians but with a shorter and more dense coat.