Zach Zinzan Montgomerie | Student Spotlight
Zach Zinzan Montgomerie
PhD Candidate
Materials Science and Engineering
"In my work, I apply fundamental ideas from polymer physics to improve our understanding of DNA’s physical properties."
My current research focuses on developing a theoretical polymer model for the structural transition between the familiar right-handed form of DNA and its lesser-known left-handed form. This alternative structure is difficult to study directly in living cells, so analytical modeling provides a way to explore the physics underlying the transition. By constructing these models, we can investigate how mechanical forces, thermal fluctuations, and protein interactions influence DNA’s structure. Having a clearer physical picture of these transitions helps us better understand key cellular processes such as transcription and may inform future therapeutic strategies that target alternative forms of DNA.
Outside of my research, I have had the privilege of meeting many incredible people within the MatSci department. The welcoming and collaborative nature of the department has helped me make several lifelong friends during my time here. Additionally, when I first came to Stanford, events hosted by the Black Graduate Student Association (BGSA) and the Black Engineering Graduate Student Association (BEGSA) were crucial for making friends and feeling a sense of community. Because of this, I eventually served for two years as BEGSA’s financial officer where I handled the organization’s finances and helped plan events. Completing a PhD is not an easy process, but finding a good support system has helped make the difficult moments more manageable. As I prepare to graduate this year, I look forward to carrying with me the lessons I have learned from both my research and the people I have met at Stanford into my next chapter.
