University: Hampton University
Hometown: Gaithersburg, MD
NIH Research Project:
The Relationship of EGR-1 to NFk-B Expression in Head and Neck Cancer
Mentor: Carter Van Waes, M.D., Ph.D.
Head and Neck Surgery Branch
National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders
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As a junior molecular biology major at Hampton University, I am committed to pursuing a career in oncology. After attending a biotechnology program in 1994, I became very interested in biomedical research. Thereafter, I conducted research at Iowa State University, Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Hampton University, and the NIH. The program that most piqued my interest in cancer research was a student internship with the Howard Hughes Medical Institute and the NIH. Under Dr. James Mulshine, I investigated the role of heterogeneous ribonucleoprotein (hnRNP) in the intervention of head and neck cancer development.
Currently I work in the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders under Dr. Carter Van Waes. My research involves a molecular study in head and neck cancer growth. We are examining the relationship of the expression of two proteins, nuclear factor kappa-B (NFk-B) and early growth response gene-1 (EGR-1), in this type of cancer. While NFk-B is known to promote head and neck cancer cell growth, we are uncertain if there exists a connection between EGR-1, NFk-B, and tumor expansion.
Working at the NIH keeps me informed about current health issues and the scientists who are making breakthroughs to improve public health. My curiosity and zeal for biomedical research enables me to constantly learn more about the health of our society, and participation in the UGSP has strengthened my decision to earn an M.D./Ph.D. and become a leading oncologist. |
