From Ghana, West Africa, Danielle Twum received her B.A. in Biology from Vassar College, where she studied the effects of climate change on coral bleaching. Danielle received her Ph.D. in Cancer Immunology from the University at Buffalo where she studied the immunology of breast cancer metastasis. Dr. Twum is an AAAS IF/THEN Ambassador, an initiative aimed at increasing the visibility of women in STEM as role models for young girls. If she is not reading romantic novels, you’ll find Dr. Twum enjoying Korean and Indian food, pretending to be Beyoncé’s background dancer, or getting lost in the wormhole that is the BBC Earth YouTube channel.

What are you most proud of in your work or life?

I am proud I have learnt to be kinder to myself.

What are your passions and hobbies?

Reading romantic novels, going for long walks (an excuse to catch up on podcasts), dancing, learning to play the electric guitar (and failing spectacularly but still, we prevail).

Do you have a personal motto or other words to live by?

Be yourself; everyone else is taken.

Favorite snack food?

Sweet plantain chips