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Timothy Rutkowski ‘08 (Biochemistry): From Roberts to Genetic Research
Dr. Timothy Rutkowski ‘08 (Biochemistry) has been busy since graduating from Roberts Wesleyan College. Tim is a post-doctoral fellow at Emory University. His research is focused on a genetic disorder, known as the 3q29 deletion. It is a rare disorder, and is associated with schizophrenia and autism spectrum disorder. This follows graduate work at the University of Rochester where he received his Ph.D. in Genetics in 2015. Living and working in Atlanta, GA is a different experience for this Western NY native, but he very much enjoys the work he has been called to do and has a passion for helping others.
Tim chose Roberts for its proximity to his home, affordability, and because of the Christian education he knew he would receive. Our excellent science faculty pre-dates the beautiful new Crothers Science and Nursing Center, and Tim’s love for science was cultivated by them. Tim writes, “My academic experience at RWC sparked my passion for science. Coming to RWC, it was clear to me that I enjoyed science and wanted to learn. However, the passion I have today for scientific discovery is a result of the professors at RWC.” Dr. David Roll and Dr. Jason (JT) Taylor especially stood out to him for their academic and spiritual wisdom. Tim also remembers enjoying intramural racquetball with JT, and almost winning it all!
Another key moment was a discussion Tim had with Professor Donna Alder. Tim says, “I will never forget a conversation I had my Freshman year with Professor Alder. In said conversation, she encouraged me and reminded me that I don’t have to have all the answers for my future. Today and every day, just trust that God knows. I still am reminded of that today in my current vocation and daily life.”
Tim’s advice for current students interested in the sciences is, “First, be persistent and have a short memory. Whether in research or medicine, there will be struggles and some failures. Learn from them, and then move on. Second, start networking with professors/researchers/doctors outside of RWC. Third, and most important, be in prayer for God’s direction. My career path is littered with God showing up, and I am humbled by the number of times I have seen Him at work in my career path.”
As we celebrate our 150th year, Tim hopes that future generations will receive the quality Christian education he did, and that students will continue to have Christian professors who teach, and more importantly, invest in them as people and potential future scientists.
Tim and his wife, Kim, have been married for five years. They have two daughters: Ella Grace (3 years old) and McKenna Joy (1 year old). They attend Grace Church in Snellville, GA. Tim and Kim met serving in youth ministry in Rochester, and they look forward to continuing youth ministry in Georgia.