At Iowa State University, the Microbiology program is more than a degree; it’s a launchpad for discovery, innovation, and diverse career pathways. For alumnus Sean Prell, the program provided not only rigorous academic training but also the flexibility and experiences needed to shape his future in science and medicine.
Prell’s academic journey reflects the interdisciplinary strength of Iowa State’s sciences. “I majored in microbiology, chemistry and genetics while I was at ISU,” he shared. This combination of disciplines gave him a broad scientific foundation, something he credits as essential to his success after graduation.
The microbiology curriculum, he explains, is intentionally challenging. “The classes are very rigorous. They make you think critically about stuff and give you a really broad background knowledge needed when you work in the laboratory.”
Prell recommends courses like Micro 3200, which blend biochemistry and microbiology, and finds them especially valuable in his professional work.
What sets Iowa State’s Microbiology program apart is the depth of experiential learning. Prell immersed himself in opportunities that extended far beyond the classroom.
He served as president of the Microbiology Club, participated in student panels, and helped recruit prospective students. “I just try to show all the amazing aspects of being a microbiology major,” he said, emphasizing the program’s supportive environment and smaller class sizes that allow for meaningful faculty interaction.
Research was another cornerstone of his experience. From working as a veterinary microbiology lab assistant at ISU to completing internships at companies like Merck and institutions like Stanford University, Prell built an impressive portfolio. “Lots of them. Lots of fun I got to have,” he said of his experiences.
After graduating in 2024, Prell took his skills to Brigham and Women's Hospital, where he now works as a research assistant. His work focuses on spatial transcriptomics, a cutting-edge technique that maps RNA within tissues to better understand cellular interactions.
“Basically, you can see where RNA is within a tissue, and that can give you an idea of what’s going on,” he explained. This advanced research builds directly on the critical thinking and laboratory skills he developed at Iowa State.
For students unsure of their path, Prell sees microbiology as an ideal starting point. “Microbiology does not narrow down your choices whatsoever. The world is still your oyster,” he said.
The program’s flexibility allows students to tailor their education through electives in areas like immunology, soil science, or genetics. “You can really design the last few years of your undergrad to meet the needs of whatever you want to do,” he added.
Whether pursuing medical school, research, or industry roles, graduates leave well-prepared for a wide range of careers.
One of Prell’s most meaningful experiences was working with high school students during microbiology workshops. These events allow students to perform real lab techniques, such as Gram staining, and to solve scientific “mysteries.”
“Just seeing them how excited they are going from just having a plate of bacteria to identifying it is really rewarding,” he said . For Prell, these moments highlight the program’s impact, not just on its students, but on the future of science itself.
Having grown up in Ames, Prell was familiar with Iowa State’s strong reputation in biological sciences. But it was the opportunity to explore multiple career paths that ultimately drew him in.
“I always wanted to have the ability to flourish and explore every option, and that’s basically what microbiology at ISU gave me,” he said .
Prell’s advice to prospective students is simple: try it. “The microbiology program is an amazing program. Take a few classes, and it will very likely convince you to become a microbiology major” .
With its combination of rigorous academics, hands-on experiences, and unmatched flexibility, Iowa State’s Microbiology program continues to prepare students not just for careers, but for discovery, impact, and lifelong curiosity. You can check it out at Microbiology Undergraduate Program or email questions to microundergrad@iastate.edu.