University: Skidmore College
Hometown: Cape Elizabeth, ME
NIH Research Project:
The Role of Wnt Signaling in Anterior/Posterior Patterning
Mentor: Ajay Chitnis, M.D., Ph.D.
Laboratory of Molecular Genetics
National Institute of Child Health and Human Development
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I first realized the potential I could have to make an impact on others' lives during my first rescue call as an EMT student. The father of a close friend had a heart attack, and the rescue team could not bring him back. Students could not give any direct help, so I had to just watch as the other EMTs worked on his body. That frustration motivated me to learn more about medicine, to increase my ability to help others.
I am now a junior neuroscience major at Skidmore College, where I was first introduced to research. For the past two summers, I have conducted research at the Jackson Laboratory, working to identify the genes that maintain the germinal stem cell niche in the adult brain. Once these stem cells are fully characterized, they could hold endless possibilities in clinical therapy.
I am currently training with Dr. Ajay Chitnis in the Unit on Vertebrate Neuronal Development, Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, researching the role of intercellular communication in defining anterior/posterior patterning in the development of the brain. In addition, I am writing computer models of my lab experiments, which allow me to visualize theoretical experiments and compare them to what I observe in the lab.
I feel quite fortunate to be a part of the UGSP, through which I have received valuable professional, academic, and personal mentoring from UGSP administrators, my lab, and my fellow UGSP Scholars. Their enthusiasm has truly enhanced my learning experience and continuously reminds me of my own dedication to improving the quality of life of those around me. |
