Tran Ton is a senior in the Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at Princeton University, pursuing a minor in Global Health and Health Policy. Her senior thesis will investigate how different classes of influenza A defective viral genomes shape viral spread and antiviral responses. In particular, she will examine whether distinct defective genome architectures differ in their ability to interfere directly with standard virus replication or stimulate interferon-mediated immune activity. By combining experimental work on influenza defective viral genomes with broader questions about virus dynamics, her project aims to clarify how defective viral particles influence infection outcomes and their potential relevance for antiviral strategies. Outside of research, Tran enjoys indoor rock climbing, building LEGO sets, baking, and trying new foods.