Major: Biology Research Department: Radiation Oncology Graduation Date: May 2021
Abstract: Fluorescent & bioluminescent proteins are prevalent in many scientific research areas. Cancer cells engineered to express these proteins are used commonly to study immunotherapy. Based on preliminary findings and previous studies, we hypothesize that fluorescent bioluminescent proteins may trigger an inherent immunologic response, which could interfere with evaluation of response to immunotherapy. This phenomenon is well-documented in cancer cells expressing a non-fluorescent foreign protein, ovalbumin. The goal of this project is to evaluate immunogenicity of cancer cells expressing fluorescent or bioluminescent proteins. These findings may have a significant impact on immunotherapy research. Email:[email protected]
What does research mean to you? During my time doing “research” from home, I realized that behind everything that occurs in lab and research is curiosity. The tools and procedures carried out in lab are only supplementary and used to execute ideas. However, these ideas are rooted in an intense desire to find answers. As children, we are very curious about the world around, as evident by our tendency to put everything we come across in our mouth. As we grow up, we suppress that innocent curiosity and the desire to explore and experiment with the world around us. Being a Green Fellow this past semester, reinforced that innate human curiosity in me and provided me with an environment that was welcoming and encouraging of my curiosities.
Tell us about your journey. Initially, I was very nervous about applying to the Green Fellows Program because I had no prior research experiencing. I walked into the interview with only two things: a strong desire to delve into unchartered territory and a thirst for learning. Before I knew it, I was wandering around the UT Southwestern campus looking for my lab. Dr. Aguilera and Dr. Swancutt welcomed me warmly and I felt at ease in the new and unfamiliar lab environment. As my time in the lab progressed, so too did the occurrences of my failures. Reframing my perspective on failure, though, gave me the willpower to keep on going. What I perceived as “failures” were only cues for me to redirect my efforts and rethink my approach. This is where my creativity and critical thinking skills were sharpened. I also realized the importance of being extremely thorough and paying attention to detail. Even though I realized that a career in research may not be ideal for me, I gained a deep appreciation for everything that happens in lab from mundane tasks like refilling pipette tips to the thought process and repeated experimentation that goes behind a single poster. Moreover, I earned a greater respect for all the scientists that persevere through the ups and downs of research, day in and day out.
How did the pandemic affect me? Every year’s Green Fellows experiences are unique and unlike any other experience. However, this year’s Green Fellows’ experience may arguably be unmatched, given the social distancing measures that had to be adopted halfway through our projects because of a global pandemic. While these circumstances were certainly not ideal, I am very grateful for everything I was able to learn as a result. At least I did not have to set up a lab in my kitchen, like many of the female scientists that came before me had to. I had collected some data when my time in lab was cut short, and Dr. Swancutt collected the rest of the data I needed. I spent most time at home analyzing the data, putting together my poster, reading papers to expand my knowledge base on this topic, and making sure my microphone was muted when siblings walked in during meetings.
Where am I now? I am currently student teaching at Pearce High School in Richardson ISD and on track to get my teaching certification in Science 7 through 12.
Advice for Future Green Fellows
To my fellow peers who are on the fence about applying, do not let your fears hinder from going after your ambitions. Give it a shot, and if the program is a fit for you, things will fall into place on their own. This program has something to offer to each one of its participants, outside of the research itself. It gave me clarity and insight into my ideal work environment, my work ethic, and how I function in a team among many other things. To future Green Fellows, if you want to get the most out of this experience, welcome failure with open arms and utilize every moment as an opportunity to learn and grow. It will not be easy at first but have faith in yourself and do not hesitate to reach out for support.