Start Here
Welcome! I'm Jeff Jaureguy, a PhD candidate in Bioinformatics & Systems Biology at UC San Diego, based at the Salk Institute. I build deep learning models to understand how genetic variants affect gene regulation in immune cells.
This site is where I share my research, writing on identity and heritage, and reflections on the intersection of science, philosophy, and AI. Whether you're here for the science, the stories, or something in between, here are some good places to start.
Where to Begin
For bioinformatics & computational biology researchers
Deep learning for variant effect prediction, sequence-to-function models, single-cell genomics, and autoimmune disease research.
View publications and researchFor my Basque heritage essays
A three-part series on family history, cultural identity, and the journey to reclaim Spanish citizenship through my great-grandparents' immigration story.
Read the Basque American seriesFor AI safety and philosophy
From theater kid to Zen practitioner to computational biologist. How inner exploration, rigor, and a bias toward honesty led to building systems that don't fool themselves.
Read "The Long Way Here"For my academic work
Full academic background including publications, presentations, awards, and research experience.
A Bit About Me
I took a nontraditional route into science: I dropped out twice, worked construction and restaurant jobs, and spent two years abroad before restarting at community college. Research clicked for me through field ecology, and that momentum took me from Cal State San Marcos to UC San Diego for my PhD.
That path left me with a bias toward clarity, rigor, and doing things the hard way when it matters. Outside the lab, I stay active with yoga, tennis, and boxing. Zazen practice keeps me grounded.
Learn more about me