Headshot portrait of Tooba Riaz - Bio-X Undergraduate Fellow
2024 Undergraduate Summer Research Program Participant

Home Department: Biology
Mentor: Paul Bollyky (Medicine - Infectious Diseases and Microbiology & Immunology)

“The Development of Ocean-Friendly Sunscreens Incorporating Bacteriophages”

The world needs safe, biodegradable alternatives to conventional sunscreens. Traditional sun protection uses ingredients that raise both environmental and health concerns. Tooba will investigate the use of bacteriophages (viruses produced by bacteria) as a natural alternative for UV protection. Her goal is to develop an environmentally-friendly and effective solution for UV protection.