IDEAL Council Chair

Jay Ortiz

Perelman School of Medicine (Penn Medicine)

He/Him/Él

IDEAL Council

I am Jorge (Jay) Ortiz-Carpena, a 2022 NASEM Ford Foundation Predoctoral Fellow and Ph.D. Candidate in the Immunology Graduate Group (IGG) at the University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine (Penn Medicine).

My current thesis research in the laboratory of Dr. De'Broski R. Herbert (Penn Presidential Associate Professor of Immunology) explores the mechanisms by which sensory neurons shape allergic Type 2 inflammation in the sinonasal tract.

Throughout my career, I have driven multiple efforts to encourage young, underrepresented students to pursue careers in academia and become the next generation of leaders. These efforts have continued while at Penn.

Tell us one sentence about what brought you to GAPSA

As a GAPSA GA rep for PSOM and Research Council member in 2021-22, I witnessed firsthand how GAPSA leadership has been an agent of change within this institution. I joined the GAPSA EB to continue advocating for graduate and professional students of underrepresented backgrounds at Penn.

Give a brief blurb about your position and high-level goals for the year

As the IDEAL Council Chair, my main goal is to support and advocate for the interests of the graduate and professional student affinity groups at Penn. I want to increase our participation and the power of our voices through several advocacy and leadership development initiatives this upcoming academic year.

If you have ideas or suggestions you would like to share about GAPSA, please do not hesitate to contact Jay at gapsa.ideal@gapsa.upenn.edu.