Major: Psychology, Classical Studies
Minor: Latin
Mentor: Kristina Olson, Psychology
Contact: abele2@uw.edu
Current research project: Essentialism in Multiracial and Transgender Children
Elizabeth is a senior in the Psychology and Classics departments at the University of Washington. Her research interests broadly lie in race and gender cognition among underrepresented groups of children. More specifically, she has been working on an undergraduate thesis at the Social Cognitive Development Lab, looking at essentialist thinking of multiracial and transgender children in terms of race and gender. Outside of research, Elizabeth enjoys drinking iced coffee, learning about Augustan Rome, reading Latin poetry, and listening to Earth, Wind & Fire.
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
People think about themselves and others in the world in different ways, and some of the ways we have these differing perceptions are based in our identities. So, I am interested in how multiracial and transgender children and their race and gender identities might impact how they think about social categories, such as race and gender.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
In the spring of my sophomore year, I looked up available research opportunities on the Undergraduate Research Program website. I knew I was interested in learning more about kids and how they think, but what I didn’t know was how much research and learning there was out there, and I was excited to get started.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
Don’t second guess yourself! It doesn’t matter if you are the youngest, the oldest, or the only person in your research setting. Research is collaborative, it’s fun, and most importantly, an incredible learning experience that you should never give up on.
Major: Biology (Molecular, Cellular & Developmental)
Mentor: Daniel Promislow, Pathology; David Tank, Bioinformatics & Computational Biology, University of Idaho
Contact: valera3@uw.edu
Current research project: Promislow Lab- ND2 Project
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I work with fruit flies (Drosophila melanogaster) to understand how “genetic modifiers”, which include things like diet, temperature, and the cellular environment, interact with genes associated with Alzheimer’s and Leigh’s disease to lead to a greater or lesser predisposition of developing the disease with age. Currently, I’m in the middle of genotyping and attempting to find single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), which are a single mutation in a sequence within one allele of a gene, to figure out how these SNPs are associated with varying degrees of expression of the diseased phenotype, and exactly why on the molecular level.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I became involved in undergraduate research at UW the fall of my sophomore year, although I had been involved in research in high school studying the evolutionary history of a species of Galapagos daisy (Scalesia). My freshman year, I attended the Undergraduate Research Symposium where I presented my research with Scalesia and consequently met and talked to people doing research in fields I was really excited and passionate about. Mostly, I wanted to do research because I wanted to see how the things I was passionate about in class and from my readings actually applied to real world questions and how I could find connections between molecular biology, genetics, and other subjects to ask new questions and find ways to answer them. But I also wanted to gain experience working in a lab to understand how research works at every stage of the process, from posing a question, to developing a project, to presenting your results. As such, I reached out to the professors of those labs that had interested me, and got a couple of replies back. After an interview, I settled into the larger A-beta project at the Promislow Lab, consisting of a team of other undergraduate and graduate students excited about the population genetics of Alzheimer’s disease. Over time, as I learned the ropes of fly genotyping and the project in general, I started to ask my own questions – which led to my working on my own independent project.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
There are many benefits to doing undergraduate research – from learning more about the research process and gaining experience, to discovering new passions and new ideas. But you have to demonstrate initiative at every step if you want to progress forward – and that initiative should be fueled by your interest and passion for a subject or question. Start thinking about what you’re passionate about – if you’re not sure yet, look at what other research people do and see if that excites you. Do not hesitate to ask other people about what research they do – most likely they will be amazed that you’re showing interest and would be more than happy to explain it to you. Additionally, do not shy away from asking questions and asking for help when you are looking for opportunities and once you are involved in research. Research rarely goes exactly the way you want it to, so in order to stick with it you have to know you will enjoy it and come back even when all of your data does not work out. Most importantly, enjoy it, be passionate about it, and don’t give up searching for opportunities or ways to get involved! There are always new questions to be asked and new things to do, so just do it!
Major: Physiology
Minor: Bioethics & Humanities
Mentor: Rechele Brooks, Institute for Learning & Brain Sciences
Contact: alis24@uw.edu
Current research project: Cognitive Behavior of Infants at the Institute for Learning and Brain Sciences
I am a first-generation Somali student with a passion for bringing global awareness to health epidemics beyond our borders. I am currently part of two research projects at two different labs and one personal research project. For the past two years I have been working at the Institute for Learning Brain Sciences on a project centered on social cognitive behavior of infants. I am currently transitioning into a new project at Harborview Medical Center Emergency Department focusing on leadership development in trauma patient care. Finally a personal research project I’ve taken up this school year focuses on studying the association of cardiovascular disease risk factors in refugee communities in Seattle.
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At the Institute for Learning and Brain Sciences, the lab focuses on projects surrounding infants. The studies are dedicated to discovering the fundamental principles of human learning, with a special emphasis on early learning and brain development.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I personally enjoy human subjects and believe the brain is fascinating. I got involved with the research through a friend who told me about different psych/neuro-focused research around campus. As for my personal project, I am the daughter of refugees and wanted to do research that impacted those close to me.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
Don’t limit yourself. If the research is interesting, regardless if it is in your major, go for it.
Major: Physics: Comprehensive Physics; Mathematics
Mentor: Jens Gundlach, Physics; Charles Hagedorn, Physics
Contact: yb23@uw.edu
Current research project: Investigation of the Effect of Temperature Gradient on the Measurement of Equivalence Principle Violation by Constructing a Thermal Monitoring System
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My project is making thermometers. That’s it. Actually it’s more subtle and slightly more complicated than that. I’m designing a new, high-resolution thermal monitoring system for the equivalence principle experiment in Eöt-Wash Group. To better explain it, I will write down some context first. The equivalence principle, which asserts the equivalence of inertial and gravitational mass, is perhaps the most fundamental property in gravitational physics and we run one of the highest-precision tests on it and we want to reach an even higher level of precision. During previous experiments, we found that temperature gradient (temperature variation at different places) heavily affected our signals, and hence we need higher-resolution on temperature measurement so we can reach a higher precision for equivalence principle measurement, and this is where my project will contribute. Initially this project was planned for the equivalence principle measurement only, but we are thinking to further expand it as a thermal monitoring system for our lab environment, because nearly all our measurements are temperature sensitive.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I started this project on February 2018, but I paid attention to the Eöt-Wash group around the start of my sophomore year. Gravitational physics looks really interesting, especially after my visit to the LIGO Hanford site. However, I had no prior research experience and just got denied in an interview. So I didn’t have much confidence and I didn’t contact anyone. During that winter quarter I took a course where faculty in physics department introduce their research to us, and I met my current mentor who is one of the principle investigators in the Eöt-Wash group. I decide to take the opportunity and talked to him. Two days later, I started my research, learning things from scratch.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
Finding a research opportunity may sound daunting, but it’s a super rewarding experience. Also, it’s absolutely normal to feel afraid about contacting a faculty member because (for example) you feel you are not prepared, but if you want to learn something in that field, try to reach out. You can’t lose anything. Here I quote one of my professors: “the courage to knock that door is the first trial professors have set up to see if you’re suitable for their projects”. So, if you find a professor’s research interesting and want to participate in depth, don’t hesitate and contact! Show your curiosity and passion!
Major: Computer Science
Mentor: Shwetak Patel, Computer Science; Jennifer Mankoff, Computer Science
Contact: jcao22@uw.edu
Current research project: Developing a Non-Invasive Continuously Blood Pressure Monitor using Pulse Transit Time
Jerry is a sophomore in Computer Science at the University of Washington. He is interested in applying computer science to tackle healthcare issues. He has explored research in the fields of accessibility and synthetic biology before deciding to focus on ubiquitous computing. In his free time, Jerry enjoys roller-skating, listening to movie/video game OSTs, and playing the violin.
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My reaserch is in the field of ubiquitous computing, which focuses on utilizing and designing sensors in our everyday lives to address pressing societal problems. Specifically, my current research project revolves around designing a system of sensors to non-invasively monitor an individual’s blood pressure by analyzing a metric called pulse-transit time (PPT). PPT is defined as how long it takes for a pulse to propagate through a length of the arterial tree. It is notably correlated with blood pressure, giving it the potential use of estimating blood pressure. The issue, however, is that everyone’s physical parameters differ, making it difficult to get an accurate reading without a period of calibration.
In order to better inform us of the connection between PPT and blood pressure we will collect a rich data set using our sensor and the traditional machines in the operating room while patients are anesthetized, limiting potential external factors in our data. This data set can then be analyzed using machine learning to draw conclusions on what factors influence the relationship between PPT and blood pressure.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I got involved in research in winter quarter of my freshman year, working for Make4All Lab under Jennifer Mankoff on accessibility research. I found the opportunity through a research night hosted by ACM, a student organization in the Computer Science department.
I really enjoyed the experience and felt that being involved in undergraduate research allowed me to truly dive into an interesting topic and learn more than what is possible in the classroom. This pushed me to continue conducting research and exploring fields that align more closely with my personal interests.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
You have nothing to lose! A lot of undergraduates are afraid of diving into research because they are afraid of messing up or not knowing enough, but professors understand this and can provide resources to help you learn. You should understand that professors are human too and can empathize with how difficult it is to get started with research. They might seem intimidating with their many achievements and contributions, but you shouldn’t be afraid to just go to their office hours, introduce yourself, and ask for advice.
Major: Biochemistry & Medical Laboratory Science
Minor: Biomedical Ethics
Mentors: Jim Olson, Pediatrics; Shelli Morris, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center
Contact:savannac@uw.edu
Current research project: Investigation of Metabolic Inhibitors for MYC-amplified Pediatric Brain Cancer
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I am a member of the Olson Lab, located at the Fred Hutch. We study rare pediatric brain cancers that have little or no treatment options, such as medulloblastoma and diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG). We are taking a multi-pronged approach to combating brain cancer. Currently, we are testing combinatorial drug treatments with immunotherapies, as these tumor types often become resistant to treatment over time when only a single therapeutic agent is used—which causes relapse for the patient. Additionally, I make glowing viruses and utilize gene trap technology to infect tumor cells, which makes them glow, so that we can image and monitor tumor volume in experiments under various treatment conditions.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
The summer before I was a junior, I did an internship through the Summer Undergraduate Research Program (SURP) at the Fred Hutch, here in Seattle. That summer, I became fascinated with the puzzle-solving aspect of cancer research and I also had a strong desire to do brain cancer research because I have lost several family members to brain tumors. The Work Study program helped with funding for me to be able to stay in my lab after my summer internship and I have been there ever since.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
Take the leap! The best learning that I have had at UW, and the most I have ever learned about myself, has been through my undergraduate research experience. Book learning is incomplete without the hands-on, real-world experience. You can’t imagine what kind of interesting discovery might be waiting for you—until you do it!
Major: Chemistry
Mentor: Matthew Bush, Chemistry
Contact: chenxcas@uw.edu
Current research project: Uncovering Substrates of Yeast E3 Ligase Using an Integrative Mass Spectrometry Strategy
Casey is a junior in Chemistry at the University of Washington. She’s currently working with Professor Matt Bush and Daniele Canzani in the Department of Chemistry on characterizing the substrates of the substrate specific E3 ubiquitin ligase in yeast through a comprehensive mass spectrometry based method. She is also working on measuring the absolute ion mobility collision cross sections of phospholipids in positive and negative ionization modes. In her free time, she enjoys lifting, drinking too much coffee, attempting to climb with friends, napping, and drawing.
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
E3 ligases are enzymes responsible for conjugating ubiquitin onto a protein, and the ubiquitin tags the protein for degradation by the proteasome. These enzymes are substrate specific, but little is known about what degrons (the specific amino acid motifs) they recognize in proteins. We are culturing and purifying E3s in yeast and we are developing and refining an integrative mass spectrometry based method to characterize these degrons. Part of this method involves native mass spectrometry, which allows for the direct measurement of E3 interactions with substrates. Along with liquid chromatography mass spectrometry and cross-linking mass spectrometry, we hope to be able to achieve a complete overview of the E3 degron interactions in cells.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
My first quarter of freshman year, I asked my CHEM 145 professor in the first office hours for advice on how to get involved in undergraduate research, and he gave me the advice and motivation I needed to reach out. I found Professor Bush’s research while exploring the department page. I reached out to him over email with a cover letter, my transcript, and resume (even though this was my fall quarter of freshman year and I had absolutely no grades or experience at this point) to basically ask for a chance to be involved. I was honestly shocked and overjoyed that he decided to give me a chance. I’ve been working with Professor Bush and my graduate student mentor since winter of my freshman year.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
Visit drop in advising at URP, attend an info session, or ask your friends about how to get involved if you’re having trouble finding a starting point. Don’t be afraid to reach out! If you find a professor whose research you’re interested in, don’t be afraid to send out an email to express interest. Do make sure to do your own research first, read publications and think about how/why you want to be involved. It’s scary to send that first email, but getting involved in research is such a rewarding experience that it’s worth it to step out and reach out!
Major: Physics: Biology
Minor: Applied Math
Mentor: Dan Doherty, Pediatrics
Contact: yhhc@uw.edu
Current research project: Using Next-Generation Sequencing to Determine the Phenotypic Spectrum of Joubert Syndrome
Hank is a senior studying Biology at the University of Washington. Since freshman year, he has been conducting research on the genetics of Joubert syndrome at the UW Hindbrain Malformation Research Program. Last summer, he researched the impact of human endogenous retroviruses on amyotrophic lateral sclerosis at the National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, Maryland. He was blown away by the fireworks at the nation’s capital during July 4th and is excited to return to the NIH as a post baccalaureate fellow. He aspires to be a physician-scientist and live up to the ideal of physicians as both caretakers and scientists. When he’s not busy doing pre-med activities, he enjoys biking around campus and cooking.
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My research focuses on elucidating the genetic basis for a neurodevelopmental disorder known as Joubert syndrome (JS). Understanding the genes and genetic variants responsible for JS can allow us to improve prognostic and recurrence risk information, provide diagnostic, carrier and prenatal testing, and delineate the biological mechanisms of JS that will be targets of future precision therapies. Interestingly, the gene products associated with JS all localize to the primary cilium, a part of the cell that acts as the nexus for numerous important signaling pathways. Consequently, JS highlights the importance of the primary cilium in health and disease and understanding more about JS will gain us further insights into the functions of this ubiquitous organelle.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I found out about my research opportunity through the online database generously provided by the URP and started doing research during the first week of my freshman year, as soon as I moved to Washington from Wisconsin. I was motivated to do research because I wanted to contribute to science and knew that it would be a lot of
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
Undergraduate research is an awesome opportunity for students of all disciplines and backgrounds. To not get involved with research at the UW would be like going to a restaurant and only eating the appetizer. Do yourself a favor and go for the entree (and dessert) by getting involved with some sweet undergraduate research opportunities!
Major: Biology (Molecular, Cellular & Developmental)
Mentor: Dan Doherty, Pediatrics
Contact: chrisang@uw.edu
Current research project: Identifying over and underrepresented ciliary proteins in loss-of-function mutations associated with Joubert Syndrome
Angela is a senior at the University of Washington studying molecular, cellular, and developmental biology. Before transferring to UW, she attended SPSCC in Olympia where she worked as a certified writing tutor and helped teach pre-college English and adult basic education classes. In addition, she was the teaching assistant for biology, tutored chemistry, and presented at a national conference on tutoring students with traumatic brain injury. After transferring to UW, Angela was a peer facilitator for BIOL 355, and worked in the CLUE writing center. She now has a passion for mentoring other new transfer students interested in research. Angela is a Mary Gates and Scan Design Innovations in Pain scholar and currently researches the cellular mechanism of Joubert Syndrome at The Doherty Lab. Outside of the lab, she enjoys dog-walking in the beautiful parks of Seattle, especially with her Chihuahua, Buddy.
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
I research Joubert Syndrome (JS), a rare neurodevelopmental disorder that affects the primary cilium. Individuals with JS have developmental delay, ataxia (loss of bodily coordination), and hypotonia (low muscle tone). Subsets of JS patients additionally suffer cystic kidney disease, liver fibrosis, coloboma (eye irregularities), and retinal dystrophy, all of which can significantly decrease the quality of life for individuals with JS. My research is on the localization of JS associated proteins in the primary cilium. Understanding the mechanism of JS is essential in discovering targeted therapeutics for the condition.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I became involved in researching filtration of lead contaminants in drinking water using microfiltration at South Puget Sound Community College, when I was inspired after hearing about the tragic health crisis in Flint Michigan. I realized I find problem-solving both challenging and rewarding, and there’s something empowering about first not knowing how or why something goes wrong, and then having the ability to strive for understanding and finding solutions. This led me to begin to pursue a career in medical research. Eventually, I hope to pursue an MSTP program in order to spend my career bringing research from bench to bedside.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
Don’t let failures set you back. Rate of failure will only increase as you progress and test the limits of your abilities. Fail fast, and often. Each failure is a lesson that can propel you forward, and if you put too much of your self-worth in avoiding failure, you inevitably will stunt your growth. The absolute only way to avoid failure is to play it safe and avoid aspiration. This principle applies to success of experiments, and all areas of life. Many labs are busy, and a rejection from 10, and acceptance to 1, is still an overall success. If you want to succeed, failure is your path to success.
Major: Biology (Molecular, Cellular & Developmental)
Minor: Neural Computation and Engineering
Mentor: Chris Hague, Pharmacology
Contact: mfc12@uw.edu
Current research project: Understanding the Functional Characteristics of the Adrenergic Receptor Known as Alpha-1D, and How its Half-life Degradation Rate Changes When the Receptor’s Composition is Modified
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The research team I am a part of focuses on the study of signaling molecules known as G-protein Coupled Receptors (GPCR’s), which are the target of almost half of all commercially available pharmaceutical drugs. My personal project is on the specific GPCR known as alpha-1D. I am attempting to determine how modifying the composition of alpha-1D will affect its half-life degradation rate.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I first started getting involved in undergraduate research in spring quarter of my sophomore year. I had deeply enjoyed one of my introductory biology classes, which focused on molecular biology, and decided to pursue that passion. After visiting a friend’s pharmacology research team and expressing my interest in what he was currently doing, I was given the opportunity to shadow him for a few weeks and see what it would be like to assume a position in the research team. Eventually, the private investigator offered me a position.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
The advice I would offer a student considering getting involved in undergraduate research is understanding that everyone can benefit from research differently. With the plethora of research opportunities available, along with the unique schedules that every student already must cope with, no two students’ experience with research will be the same. I whole-heartedly believe that every student can benefit from conducting research. Especially since we are part of a renowned research university like the UW, no one should feel discouraged if they haven’t found a research opportunity that interests them so far, because with enough digging, research in pretty much any major field can be found.
Major: Pre-major (intended Biology)
Mentor: Department of Otolaryngology
Contact: tonypony@uw.edu
Current research project: Examing the Vestibular Synapses in Adult Mice
Antonio grew up in a small rural town in eastern Washington called Prosser. Growing up no kids were ever encouraged to pursue STEM. This barrier stifled his dreams of becoming active in science due to the severe lack of opportunities. Luckily he found a summer program at the University of Washington for freshman entering the UW in the fall and through this program he was first introduced to research. He fell in love with the work and is now more dedicated than ever to pursue a career in STEM.
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As a GenOM ALVA intern during the summer of 2019, Antonio worked in the Stone Lab in the Department of Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery. The aim of his research was to examine vestibular synapses in normal adult mice to validate maturity. He immunolabeled and confocally photographed many vestibular organs (utricles) from adult mice to validate findings in an ongoing research paper that achieved puzzling results. In the future, Tony is planning to continue working in the Stone Lab, explore other fields of research and pursue medical school for an MD/PhD program.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I got involved in research the summer of 2019 before entering as a freshman at UW. I got involved because due to my environment I never had a chance to experience the joys of research.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
JUST DO IT!!
M
ajor: Biochemistry
Mentor:Dr. Neil King, Biochemistry; Dr. Karla-Luise Herpoldt, Bioengineering
Contact: rfields2@uw.edu
Current research project:Development of a Protein Cage-Based Therapeutic Cancer Vaccine
Rose is a senior in the department of biochemistry, and has been working in Dr. Neil King’s lab at the Institute for Protein Design since the beginning of her freshman year. She came to UW from Omaha, Nebraska, and three years later still hasn’t adjusted to the weather.
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
I’m using de novo self-assembling proteins that have been developed by the Institute for Protein Design to create a customizable platform for tumor-specific cancer vaccines. The vaccine would use fragments of mutated human proteins that are only presented on cancerous cells to induce a very specific immune response. This technology would allow us to treat cancer by harnessing a patient’s own immune system to kill tumor cells rather than using toxic drugs or deadly radiation.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I met my mentor Dr. Karla-Luise Herpoldt at the National Youth Science Camp the summer before my freshman year, and she gave me the opportunity to work with her in the King Lab. I knew I wanted to go into a bioengineering-related field, and the chance to create teeny-tiny molecules that can solve the biggest health problems facing our society today was just too amazing and fantastical to pass up.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
Don’t be afraid to email faculty members! Seriously! They’re not the scary and mean people that you might think they are. Undergraduate researchers are super important parts of any research environment, and they know that. You might not get a reply, because professors are notorious for not reading their emails, but keep trying! Send multiple follow-up emails, or reach out to someone else. They’ll never scoff or laugh at you.
Major: Intended Major: Biology
Mentor: Kraig Abrams, Beverly Torok-Storb, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center
Contact: rodrig5@uw.edu
Current research project: Effects of Irradiation on NK, NKT and T-cells in NK Expansion Cultures
An upcoming sophomore at the University of Washington. Having research experiences during his high school career at the “Center for Infectious Disease Research” studying Malaria, and in the summer of his freshman year working under the Alva Genome Project where he had an opportunity to do research at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, developing a new way of combating cancer by taking advantage of NK radiation resistance. He is still keeping his options open for how he can best put his time into research and for ways he can most effectively help underrepresented communities.
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I was conducting research on developing a new method of combating cancer by taking advantage of NK cell radiation resistant.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
Having mentors and seeking research opportunities during high school, I found a passion and appreciation for it and was compelled to find more opportunities.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
Try it out, be open minded and be vulnerable to gaining knowledge.
Major: Intended Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology
Mentors: Callin Switzer, Department of Biology
Contact:kimtha@uw.edu
Current research project: Buzz-pollination in Bumblebees
Kim is currently a sophomore and interested in pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Biology. She was born in Burien, WA and grew up there with her parents and younger sister. As of now, she is exploring various research areas to identify her interests by working in different labs. Currently she is still interested in studying human genetics and did research involving rare genetic disorders the summer before her freshmen year. In her free time she likes reading web comics and working out, but not at the same time.
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
I study the behavior of bumblebees to understand the mechanisms that might explain why bumblebees can buzz-pollinate while other species of bees cannot.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I got involved in research the summer before my freshmen year of college through a summer program called GenOM ALVA at the University of Washington. UW GenOM ALVA is 9 week intensive preparatory program that prepares students for intro courses at UW and places incoming freshmen into labs for them to gain research experience. I got involved with undergraduate research because I truly love to learn and want to explore how the world works through the lens of biology.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
I would tell someone to take a chance and apply to be in a lab even if they think they are not prepared. Lab mentors are very kind, patient, and more than willing to teach someone about their current projects!
Major: Chemistry and Physics
Mentor: Prof. Alexandra Velian, Chemistry
Contact: dhales@uw.edu
Current research project: CO2 Reduction Catalysis with Rhenium Functionalized Black Phosphorus
David is a senior studying chemistry and physics at the University of Washington – Seattle Campus. After a 4 month study abroad in Germany, David started working under Prof. Alexandra Velian November of his Junior year on inorganic chemistry. His past projects include protecting black phosphorus with group 13 Lewis acids, functionalizing black phosphorus with organic azides, exfoliating black phosphorus in eutectic NaCl:KCl:AlCl3 salt melts, and his current project involves generating rhenium metallated black phosphorus for use in CO2 reduction catalysis. In addition to being a URL, David is also a CLUE chemistry tutor and the President of the ACS UW student chapter.
In his free time David likes to game, bike, play ultimate Frisbee, and play the clarinet.
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
A key part of my research is deepening a fundamental understanding of inorganic chemistry. A prominent application of my research is catalysis, which is a way that chemists make the reactions we care about work better and go faster. A type of catalysis that I am particularly passionate about is CO2 reduction. CO2 reduction, if optimized, could allow for the creation of environmentally sustainable chemical feedstocks, in contrast to the current non-renewable petroleum based feedstocks that are currently used.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I contacted Prof. Velian in November 2018. She let me sit in on a lab group meeting, which was 2.5 hours long, at the time, very confusing science. After the group meeting and expressing my interest again she paired me up with a grad student mentor and I started researching!
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
Just go for it! Contacting professors can make you feel really vulnerable, but you just have to go for it. Remember that in person is better than email and that email is better than not at all. And don’t be discouraged if you don’t get the response you want on the first try. It’s not uncommon to contact many professors before getting one to bite.
Major: Computer Science
Mentor: Computer Science and Engineering
Contact: joyhe@uw.edu
Current research project: Predicting Psychotic Symptom Severity from Daily Routines
Joy is a junior in Computer Science at the University of Washington. Her mission is to use Artificial Intelligence to further democratize healthcare and education. To do so, she works on leveraging large-scale behavioral data from smartphone-based sensing systems to gain meaning insights about human well-being. She is also fascinated by applications of reinforcement learning to personalized educational technologies.
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
The key challenge that we are facing today is that many people do not have equal opportunities to reach their full potential because of lack of access to healthcare and education. I work on a variety of technical questions inspired by our applications of AI to these high-stake domains, building automatic decision-making systems that can bring the world-class specialist expertise to everyone, at a low cost.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I started doing research the beginning of my sophomore year. I reached out to a professor about research opportunities because I was inspired by his work.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
Start early so you can have enough time to explore different areas and figure out what you are truly interested in. Don’t let your experience hold you back because everyone has to start from somewhere, and you are not expected to know everything when you start as a researcher because the point of doing research is that you learn as you go. It’s also important to get comfortable asking people for help and mentorship.
Feel free to reach out to me if you are also interested in what I am working on. I am always looking for collaborators and happy to connect people to the right opportunities.
Mentor:Josh Smith, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Computer Science and Engineering
Contact:usmank13@uw.edu
Current research project:3D Mapping Wireless Power for Neural Implants
Usman is a junior studying Electrical Engineering. Interested in research at the intersection of applied physics and computer science, he takes on projects regarding electromagnetics and wireless power for biomedical and IoT applications. He is passionate about enabling and inspiring others’ creativity and innovation. Hence, his research projects have focused on building tools that other researchers and engineers in the field can use as well. Usman’s curiosity has led him to start the ILMTECH Podcast, a podcast casually interviewing professors about their knowledge and research.
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance.
The “3DEVS,” a platform that maps and creates visualizations of magnetic fields that wireless power devices create, is aimed at enabling the development of wirelessly powered neural implants. These implants would send electrical signals to stimulate the spinal cords of patients who suffer from paralysis, helping them regain some movement. Developing these implants is very mathematically complex, so without the 3DEVS, it’s like trying to draw a picture with a blindfold on. The 3DEVS removes this blindfold and allows for rapid development, debugging, and progress in the field.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I got involved Spring Quarter of my freshman year. I had heard about the Sensor System’s Lab and greatly admired their ability to succeed in so many different fields. As someone with so many interests, that appealed to me. After emailing the PI requesting to talk and ask some questions about his work, I was offered a position under a graduate student. I joined research because I didn’t want to be constrained to just one thing. I wanted to push my intellectual boundaries and be able to apply physics and computer science to build a range of engineering solutions. I wanted to produce meaningful and relevant work, and I wanted the ability to work on whatever I thought was cool.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
My advice to a student considering undergraduate research would be to not hesitate and get involved early. The earlier you start, the more time you have to learn and adjust and reap benefits. My other piece of advice is to always ask questions and ask others for help. You don’t have to be a genius and figure things out yourself; you just have to be able to talk to geniuses.
Majors: Law, Societies, and Justice; Sociology; Accounting
Mentor: Jackson School of International Studies
Contact: minsukim@uw.edu
Current research project: Human Rights and Forensic Anthropology in Latin America
Min Su is a junior with a double degree in Business Administration (Accounting) and the College of Arts and Sciences (Law, Societies, and Justice; Sociology). She is interested in the multidisciplinary intersection between macro-level social institutions, such as law, economics, and society. Since March of 2018, she has been involved as a coordinator for a research group with the Latin America and Caribbean Studies department at the University of Washington. This group focuses on understanding the contribution of forensic anthropology to human rights advocacy in Latin America, and is working towards the creation of an online platform to share our research findings with others.
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
My current research project is within a group that seeks to document the human rights abuses and subsequent importance of the field of forensic anthropology in attaining justice in Latin America. Specifically, we have focused on Guatemala’s “Dirty War”- a period of state terrorism and genocide during the mid-late 20th century – and global comparisons to other human rights crises to better understand which factors are common to the onset of human rights atrocities. With this research, we are developing an online educational platform for the Latin American and Caribbean Studies Department of the Jackson School.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I first got involved in undergraduate research during winter quarter of my freshman year. Although I was hesitant about reaching out because I had no formal research experience, my peers and professors reminded me that research is an important learning experience to have. Because of their advice, I accessed the URP database, and contacted the PI of a study on how fixed and growth mindsets are developed through “gifted” programs. Through that experience, I learned that research is truly something that you learn along the way, and no one is expected to be an expert before they begin. Since my first research experience, I have reached out to professors about research, and have even participated in SIAH (the Summer Institute in the Arts and Humanities), which has helped me to develop and pursue my own research projects!
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
There are plenty of opportunities for research at the University of Washington! Regardless of your major or class standing, you will find a position perfect for you if you simply reach out. PI’s, professors, graduate students, and the Undergraduate Research Program are there to mentor you, connect you to resources, and are overall more than willing to teach you the necessary skills to set you up for success in research.
Majors: Bioengineering
Mentor: Jennifer Nemhauser, UW Department of Biology
Contact: akoriath@uw.edu
Current research project: The “Super AFB”: Creating an F-box With Super Auxin-Responsive Degradation
Alex is a junior at the University of Washington, pursuing a degree in Bioengineering. She joined the Nemhauser Lab in the Biology Department as a freshman in April 2018 and is currently working on a project to learn more about proteins in the signaling network of the plant hormone auxin. The final goal of the project is to create more efficient versions of these proteins to be utilized in the auxin-inducible degron system, a method that allows scientists in many different disciplines to learn more about specific protein functions. True to her Vashon Island roots, Alex enjoys hiking and exploring nature with friends and family, but she is also content to relax at home while watching Netflix with her two black cats.
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
In my lab, we are working to gain a better understanding of the roles of proteins in the auxin signaling network. This network leads to the regulation of various genes in plants and affects many visible phenotypes such as a plant’s ability to respond to light and gravity, as well as initiate new organs. Because these interactions are happening in all plants, learning more about the process leads to a better understanding of how these plants work and has impacts in the agricultural industry. In my project specifically, I hope to improve the efficiency of the auxin-inducible degron system. This system allows for scientists to regulate the degradation of specific proteins in non-plant eukaryotes and learn more about the functions of these proteins. Improving this system would make the research process more efficient in many different scientific fields.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I got involved in undergraduate research at the end of my freshman year through a process of cold-emailing various professors in labs that interested me. I wanted to get involved in research to learn more about what it is like to be scientist and make an impact with my work. I was also excited to learn lab and professional skills that would be relevant to my future education and career.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
I would encourage any student interested in research to give it a try. There are so many different research labs on campus involved in various fields that it would be almost impossible not to find one of interest. Once you get involved in research you will not only be practicing important skills, but you are also able to experience a learning environment in which grades are not involved.
Michaela Leung
Major: Earth and Space Sciences
Mentor: Victoria Meadows, Astronomy
Contact: mwjl@uw.edu
Current research project: Atmospheric Evolution of Circumbinary PlanetsMic
Michaela is a senior majoring in Earth and Space Sciences. Her main research interests are bio signatures and habitability. Her current research looks at planets orbiting binary star systems and models how the atmosphere might change with the differing stellar radiation. Michaela is passionate about increasing diversity and equity in higher education. In her spare time, she likes to read, cook, bake and run.
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
My work will hopefully help us learn more about what conditions are necessary for life to arise beyond the Earth. This question is both scientifically interesting and also thinks about existentially human questions – are we alone in the universe? What else could life look like?
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I have been involved in undergraduate research since the fall of my sophomore year. I got involved through emailing potential mentors because I knew I was interested in science, and I wanted to explore research opportunities.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
Do it!! You will learn so much about your subject as well as about yourself and gain tons of skills.
Major: Biology (Molecular, Cellular, & Developmental)
Minor: English
Mentor: Daniel Promislow, Pathology; Katie Dickinson, Biology
Contact: dejamm@uw.edu
Current research project: Evolutionary Genetics/Amyloid Beta Project
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
I am working on a study to identify genetic modifiers of Alzheimer’s Disease, using the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster as a model. The goal of this study is to identify genes that confer resistance to Alzheimer’s. My independent project involves analyzing the circadian rhythm of fruit flies with the human form of a gene that is correlated to the initiation and progression of Alzheimer’s. I have also worked in the biology department helping to teach students about antibiotic resistance in a research setting.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I want to study Alzheimer’s for the rest of my career, and I knew this entering UW as a freshman; however, I didn’t start working in a lab until my sophomore year. A UW faculty member assuaged my apprehension of joining a lab and connected me to someone they knew that studied Alzheimer’s, who offered me a position in his lab.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
Don’t let the idea that you won’t be helpful in a lab because you aren’t a master of the subject dissuade you from emailing or talking to faculty members. PIs are not expecting you to know everything about their research, or their lab, or their subject. PIs do appreciate a potential mentee that is enthusiastic, inquisitive, and that would be dedicated to their work in the lab.
Major: Applied & Computational Mathematical Sciences, Biochemistry, Microbiology
Mentors: Jesse Bloom (Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center), Sarah Hilton (Genome Sciences)
Contact: jonmah@uw.edu
Current research project:Identifying Sites Under Positive Selection on Viral Proteins
Jon is a graduating senior studying Applied & Computational Mathematical Sciences, Biochemistry, and Microbiology. This past Summer he worked with Professor Kirk Lohmueller’s group at UCLA on forward population genetics simulations for evolution in canids. He currently works with Dr. Jesse Bloom’s group at the Fred Hutch on experimentally-informed quantitative models for protein evolution in viruses. He is interested in studying both basic and translational questions in mathematical evolution and quantitative genetics.
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
For some diseases, such as polio and measles, a single vaccination during childhood is sufficient to confer lasting immunity. For faster evolving viruses, such as the flu, their high rate of evolution allows the virus to frequently escape immune response, necessitating annual updates to the vaccine. For even faster evolving viruses, such as HIV, a working vaccine is yet to be developed. To address this issue, I am using high-throughput experimental data to statistically define models which can be used to identify how and where viral proteins mutate to escape immune response. We hope to improve methods for disease surveillance and identify possible targets for structure-based vaccine design.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I reached out to Dr. Bloom’s group by email on February 3rd, 2018 due to my interest in their ongoing work on virus evolution. This email included a copy of my resume, my unofficial transcript, and a concise description of how cool I thought their work was. In particular, I was impressed by their use of both experimental and computational approaches. I was fortunate to receive a response within five hours and started two days later. Since then I have worked closely under the mentorship of Dr. Bloom and one of his graduate students, Sarah Hilton.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
Many students forgo pursuing opportunities in undergraduate research due to financial barriers, e.g., they may have to work part-time to afford housing, tuition, familial costs, etc. However, at the University of Washington, there exist several excellent funding mechanisms to support undergraduate research (in EVERY field)! To whatever extent is allowed by personal finances, I suggest that students consider engaging in undergraduate research and applying for funding rather than working at a job that is less relevant to their education. Please feel free to reach out to me for advice on applying and/or examples of written statements from past successful applications!
Major: Electrical Engineering
Mentor: Matthew Bruce, Applied Physics Lab
Contact: ttmasike@uw.edu
Current research project: Ultrasound Imaging of Rat Spinal Cord Injury
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance:
I work at the Center for Industrial and Medical Ultrasound (CIMU) in the UW Applied Physics Laboratory under Dr. Bruce. We are interested in developing ultrasound imaging techniques for spinal cord injury. Traumatic spinal cord injury results in significant loss of blood flow at the site of injury. Loss of blood flow leads to progressive cell death of spinal cord tissue. Clinical monitoring of the blood flow within the spinal cord is currently not possible. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) is a technique the lab is developing in order to visualize and monitor blood vessels and blood flow after traumatic spinal cord injury. This work will eventually help develop better treatment for spinal cord injuries. My role includes image processing and signal processing of ultrasound images and acquisition.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
My first research experience was at an immersive summer research program at the University of Delaware soon after my freshman year. I was curious and interested in finding out more about the process of research. I was also drawn to the prospect of discovery, probing into areas no one else has, and being at the forefront of creating new knowledge. I enjoyed being a member of an interdisciplinary and collaborative team in a research lab. I also received valuable mentorship and guidance from my mentor and lab Principal Investigator which encouraged me to continue participating in research.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
I’d say go for it! There are so many valuable skills you can gain by participating in research. You’ll have a better understanding of concepts and coursework that transcends the classroom experience by applying your knowledge to something as novel and practical as research. The lab that you’ll work in will also provide mentorship in whatever career you want to pursue. I’d start by looking at the research areas your department’s faculty specializes in then seeing what interests you. We have many resources here at the Undergraduate Research Program (URP) to help you get started and identify research opportunities.
Major: Microbiology
Minor: Global Health
Mentors: Alexis Kaushansky, Seattle Children’s Global Infectious Disease
Contact: christam@uw.edu
Current Research Project: Investigating the role of lipid peroxidation and ROS production in liver-stage Plasmodium infection
Christa is a senior majoring in Microbiology and minoring in Global Health. She was born in Seattle, Washington, but grew up in Papua New Guinea. After learning about the deaths caused each year by malaria in Papua New Guinea and other developing nations, she decided to get involved in malaria research. She aspires to become an infectious disease specialist and serve underprivileged populations as a medical doctor. In her free time she enjoys running, drawing, and rock climbing.
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
My work in Kaushansky lab focuses on the liver stage of malaria parasite infection. Complex cell signaling pathways contribute to the development of the parasite in the liver and relatively little is known about host cell regulation of liver stage parasite growth. Targeting the malaria parasite at the liver stage would prevent both clinical symptoms and further transmission. Elevated lipid peroxidation and ROS production during infection has been shown to inhibit parasite development without affecting the host cell, but it is unknown where or how this process occurs. My project will allow us to gain a better understanding of how the lipid peroxidation process contributes to limiting Plasmodium infection within the liver and how it might be targeted by therapeutics to selectively kill parasites without harming the host.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I first got involved in research at the end of my freshman year in community college when I learned that one of my favorite professors was leading a research project for students. After transferring to UW, I volunteered in an immunology lab for a year. My dream for years was to be involved in malaria research, so when I was offered the opportunity to join a lab researching malaria, I transferred to my current lab. I grew up in Papua New Guinea where many people are affected by malaria, so I am very grateful to make a small contribution to the fight against this disease.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
Getting involved in research is a wonderful learning experience. Don’t be afraid to reach out to potential mentors and don’t be discouraged if you don’t always hear back. It can take time and effort to find a research position, but once you find one, it’s so worth it!
Major: Biology (Molecular, Cellular & Developmental); Biochemistry
Mentor: Shao-En Ong, Pharmacology
Contact: tmoreno@uw.edu
Current research project: Generating Constructs for Synaptic Neuro-proteomics.
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance:
Understanding the protein makeup of synapses is crucial for understanding brain function. However, due to the physical complexity of neurons, it’s been proven difficult to attain precise spatial information. By generating APEX2 fusion proteins, we hope to label specific post-synaptic clefts in-vivo so that specific synaptic protein maps can be generated.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I got involved in undergraduate research in fall 2017 – my first quarter at UW! My professors at community college had gotten me really excited about all the opportunities in Seattle, and so I was really excited to find the Undergraduate Research Program (URP). I went to a URP info session, searched the database, consulted with a URP staff member, and sent in my research application to a lab. To my great joy, I was accepted for the internship and my undergraduate research career began! I am so happy to be in research because it gives me the opportunity to actually contribute to the scientific community and utilize classroom knowledge.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
Apply, apply, apply! I have submitted more applications for scholarships and programs than I care to count. Usually only one or two things will come through for me, but a lot of times I’m disappointed. Thus, the important thing to do is not give up! You have talents and interests that are uniquely YOU! If you keep going for your dreams and persevere through rejections, someone will eventually realize how awesome you’d be in a research setting.
Major: Neurobiology
Mentor: Tonya Palermo, Anesthesiology
Contact: moufasa@uw.edu
Current research project: The Prevalence of Chronic Pain in Young Adults: A Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance:
Chronic pain is a growing public health issue, both nationally and globally. While there is relatively homogenous data on the prevalence of chronic pain in pediatric and general adult populations, this has not been well documented in young adults, an important and vulnerable population. This project aims to review existing data to determine the prevalence of chronic pain in young adults, and to analyze potential biopsychosocial factors associated with the development of chronic pain in this age group. We hope that by having a better idea of young adults’ experience of chronic pain, treatments could be more effectively tailored for this specific population.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I first got involved in undergraduate research during my sophomore year at UW, during which I worked as a research assistant at the Kleinhans Lab, which primarily studies sensory mechanisms of children with autism. I found this opportunity through an extensive search on the Undergraduate Research Program’s online research database. I then found out about a summer internship, the Scan Design Innovations in Pain Research Summer Program, through a professor. I completed this internship at the Sleep Innovations Lab at Seattle Children’s Research Institute, under Dr. Tonya Palermo, and I am continuing my work there throughout the year.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
I think the most important thing to keep in mind is that it is perfectly alright to make mistakes when pursuing research. I was initially discouraged from finding challenging research opportunities because I was worried about having limited knowledge about the research subject. However, one of the main purposes of undergraduate research is to learn, and to apply what you learn, through trial and error, to the advancement of that research. Do not worry about having limited experience and knowledge, because you will quickly find many people who will happily support you throughout your research experience.
Major: Physics:Bioengineering
Mentors: Andre Berndt, Department of Bioengineering
Contact: aan5@uw.edu
Current research projects: Optogenetic Modeling of Chloride-Mediated Neurotransmission
Amanda An Nguyen is a senior in Bioengineering at the University of Washington. Her passion for research lies in developing optogenetic tools for visualizing key biological mechanisms, and she is pursuing this research in the Berndt Lab at the Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine. She was a 2019 UTokyo Amgen Scholar. Amanda grew up in Seattle, and her hobbies include painting and singing.
Haley is a sophomore in Biology (MCD) at the University of Washington. She is very interested in the role and importance of research in medicine, especially with creating and implementing treatments. Since spring 2019, she has worked in Plymate Lab at UW SLU to help explore prostate cancer treatments. In her free time, Haley enjoys bouldering, basketball, aquariums, and gardening.
Sarah is a junior at the University of Washington studying molecular, cellular & developmental biology. She has been involved in research since the spring of 2018, and her current project focuses on insulin endocytosis and transport across the blood-brain barrier and the role this might play in Alzheimer’s disease. Her ultimate goal is to have a career in medical research.
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
Chloride-mediated neurotransmission plays critical roles during early development. Disturbed chloride homeostasis in early neuronal circuits results in imbalances in neuronal differentiation, cell growth, and synapse formation that are thought to trigger irreversible paths into brain states associated with autism, epilepsy, and schizophrenia. I am working on the development of optogenetic tools for studying the role of chloride-mediated neurotransmission with the goal of understanding the mechanisms behind these disorders and redirecting current therapeutics to address these mechanisms.
Prostate cancer is the third leading cause of cancer death in the US for men, and incidences have about doubled in the last 20 years. My lab explores cell mechanisms that enable prostate cancer progression to understand how current treatments succeed or fail. An example would be exploring how certain receptors, such as at AR-Vs androgen receptor, plays a role in prostate cancer progression or treatment. We use this knowledge to help develop future treatments to increase patient survival.
The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a layer of tightly-woven endothelial cells that moderates what substances can cross from the blood in your capillaries into the cells of your brain. My research mentor and I are exploring how insulin gets into the BBB, specifically what protein regulates uptake of insulin and its receptor. Insulin has been shown to improve cognition, and it is linked to degradation of the protein beta amyloid, one of the hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease. However, the brains of Alzheimer’s patients exhibit decreased insulin signaling and receptor sensitivity. We are hoping that learning more about this system in a healthy model may give us valuable insight into the disease condition.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I joined the Berndt Lab during the summer before my junior year. I emailed Dr. Berndt expressing my interest in optogenetics, and he was willing to take me in! I was eager to get involved in undergraduate research because I was, since a young age, interested in learning more about how the brain works and the causes underlying neurological disorders. I also wanted to see tangibly how my coursework in BIOE could be applied to address a cause I was extremely passionate about. My research in optogenetics as an undergraduate allows me to begin contributing to the effort to improve current therapeutics to better target the mechanisms underlying neuropathological states.
I really wanted to get involved in research because I felt unsatisfied with the way labs were carried out in many of my classes, and I knew that there was more skills and knowledge to learn in a real research setting. Since high school I’ve also been really interested in healthcare, and joining a lab in the UWSOM really taught me about how treatments and cures and researched and implemented. I got involved by reaching out to professors who listed their projects on the URP Database, and am I very grateful that Dr. Uo accepted me into the Plymate Lab at UW South Lake Union. I’ve been happily running biochemical analytics there since the end of my freshman year.
I got involved in research spring of my freshman year. I’ve known since high school I wanted a career in research, and so I wanted to get real-life experience as soon as I could. I used URP’s research opportunities database to find potential mentors, until I eventually got a position at the VA Hospital studying Alzheimer’s and the blood brain barrier.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
Put yourself out there! There are so many opportunities for undergraduate research here at UW, and while it may take some time to find a fit for you, as long as you keep putting yourself out there, you will find it!
Finding and being involved with research sounds very intimidating at first, especially when you’re surrounded by people who have much more knowledge of the topic than you. I want to say to everyone who’s worried that they may not have enough experience or knowledge yet: Don’t be afraid! Professors and graduate students understand that you have an undergraduate level of understanding, and they will be very excited that you are participating in research early on in your academic career. I never thought that I would enjoy being in my lab as much as I did, and I am so grateful for the skills and relationships that I developed in my lab. You have nothing to lose by putting yourself out there, and so much potential passion and inspiration to gain.
Don’t give up! It might take you a few tries to find a research opportunity. Before I got a position, I spent about a quarter and a half sending out emails and getting rejection emails in response. In fact, the first time I reached out to my current lab, they turned me down! It wasn’t until a few months later that a position opened up and they contacted me again. My path to finding a research position definitely wasn’t what I expected it to be, but I got there eventually, and you will too!
Major: Mathematics; Pre-Major (Biology)
Mentor: Blair Zhao, Oral Health Sciences
Contact: bortegae@uw.edu
Current research project: Investigating Computer-Designed Protein Scaffolds to Regulate the Translocation of FOXO1 to Promote Angiogenesis
Bryan is an incoming freshman looking to pursue Biology at the University of
Washington. He is very interested in learning about biology to gain a better understanding of the human body and prepare for medical school. Since July of 2019, he has been working with
Blair Zhao a graduate student studying oral health sciences to develop and test computer designed protein scaffolds in order to create a better version of the angiopoietin1 protein in our body. As for his personal interests, Bryan loves to play video games, hanging out with friends, and learn more about different topics while trying to be with his family whenever he can.
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
Finding a replacement for the angiopoietin1 protein in our bodies by using computer designed protein scaffolds.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
Summer 2019, an Internship with the ALVA GenOM Project, wanted to see what was out there and was open to new ideas.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
Go for it and try it out, it’s not for everyone but you never know unless you try!
Major: Biology: Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental
Mentor: Takuma Uo, Division of Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine
Contact: hjpang@uw.edu
Current research project: Understanding Molecular Logics Behind Adaptive Resistance of Prostate Cancer Cells to Androgen-targeted Therapies
Haley is a sophomore in Biology (MCD) at the University of Washington. She is very interested in the role and importance of research in medicine, especially with creating and implementing treatments. Since spring 2019, she has worked in Plymate Lab at UW SLU to help explore prostate cancer treatments. In her free time, Haley enjoys bouldering, basketball, aquariums, and gardening.
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
Prostate cancer is the third leading cause of cancer death in the US for men, and incidences have about doubled in the last 20 years. My lab explores cell mechanisms that enable prostate cancer progression to understand how current treatments succeed or fail. An example would be exploring how certain receptors, such as at AR-Vs androgen receptor, plays a role in prostate cancer progression or treatment. We use this knowledge to help develop future treatments to increase patient survival.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I really wanted to get involved in research because I felt unsatisfied with the way labs were carried out in many of my classes, and I knew that there was more skills and knowledge to learn in a real research setting. Since high school I’ve also been really interested in healthcare, and joining a lab in the UWSOM really taught me about how treatments and cures and researched and implemented. I got involved by reaching out to professors who listed their projects on the URP Database, and am I very grateful that Dr. Uo accepted me into the Plymate Lab at UW South Lake Union. I’ve been happily running biochemical analytics there since the end of my freshman year.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
Finding and being involved with research sounds very intimidating at first, especially when you’re surrounded by people who have much more knowledge of the topic than you. I want to say to everyone who’s worried that they may not have enough experience or knowledge yet: Don’t be afraid! Professors and graduate students understand that you have an undergraduate level of understanding, and they will be very excited that you are participating in research early on in your academic career. I never thought that I would enjoy being in my lab as much as I did, and I am so grateful for the skills and relationships that I developed in my lab. You have nothing to lose by putting yourself out there, and so much potential passion and inspiration to gain.
Major:Biology (Molecular, Cellular & Developmental)
Mentor: Elizabeth Rhea, Medicine
Contact: pembes@uw.edu
Current research project: Role of Platelet Serotonin in Metabolic Syndrome
Sarah is a junior at the University of Washington studying molecular, cellular & developmental biology. She has been involved in research since the spring of 2018, and her current project focuses on insulin endocytosis and transport across the blood-brain barrier and the role this might play in Alzheimer’s disease. Her ultimate goal is to have a career in medical research.
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a layer of tightly-woven endothelial cells that moderates what substances can cross from the blood in your capillaries into the cells of your brain. My research mentor and I are exploring how insulin gets into the BBB, specifically what protein regulates uptake of insulin and its receptor. Insulin has been shown to improve cognition, and it is linked to degradation of the protein beta amyloid, one of the hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease. However, the brains of Alzheimer’s patients exhibit decreased insulin signaling and receptor sensitivity. We are hoping that learning more about this system in a healthy model may give us valuable insight into the disease condition.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I got involved in research spring of my freshman year. I’ve known since high school I wanted a career in research, and so I wanted to get real-life experience as soon as I could. I used URP’s research opportunities database to find potential mentors, until I eventually got a position at the VA Hospital studying Alzheimer’s and the blood brain barrier.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
Don’t give up! It might take you a few tries to find a research opportunity. Before I got a position, I spent about a quarter and a half sending out emails and getting rejection emails in response. In fact, the first time I reached out to my current lab, they turned me down! It wasn’t until a few months later that a position opened up and they contacted me again. My path to finding a research position definitely wasn’t what I expected it to be, but I got there eventually, and you will too!
Major: Biochemistry
Mentor: Joshua Vaughan, Chemistry
Contact: perrj@uw.edu
Current research projects: 1.) Super-Resolution Microscopy/Improved Nanoscale Imaging Achieved by Index Matching with Expansion Microscopy 2.) Super-Resolution Microscopy and Neurobiology/Microtubule acetylation is required for mechanosensation in Drosophila 3.) Peptide Mapping/Optimizing Peptide Mapping of PEG-FGF21 for Analysis Methionine Oxidation
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance:
I primarily work on optimizing the super-resolution microscopy technique, Expansion Microscopy (ExM). ExM allows biologists to achieve resolution of ~65 nm with a light microscope by expanding the sample rather than utilizing greater magnification; the enhanced resolution facilitated by ExM enables the cost-effective study of intracellular features that were previously extremely expensive to observe. I focus on enhancing the evenness of expansion to mitigate any distortions associated with expanding the sample.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
The professor of my fall quarter freshman year CHEM 145 class sent out an email mentioning an opening for an undergraduate researcher in his lab, and I quickly jumped on the opportunity. Although I had no expectations, I knew that getting involved in undergraduate research would be a great first step in pursuing my intended career in scientific research. I knew virtually nothing about super-resolution microscopy, but I read the professor’s publications and expressed my enthusiasm. Evidently, that was enough, and I have worked with Dr. Vaughan since winter quarter of my freshman year.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
If you’re interested in getting involved in undergraduate research, I would highly recommend first doing a little research on professors with whom you’ve taken classes or who study topics that particularly fascinate you. Once you have identified a research space that piques your curiosity, shoot the head of that project an email. Be friendly, persistent, and enthusiastic, and you’re bound to find your way into a field of research that suits your interests.
Major: Pre-Sciences
Mentor: Dr.Daniel Dürschmied – Department of Cardiology
Contact: deepts@uw.edu
Current research projects: Role of Platelet Serotonin in Metabolic Syndrome
Deepthi is a rising sophomore hoping to be in the department of Public Health at the University of Washington. Having gained research experience in the Nemhauser Lab at the UW working with the dynamics of signaling networks and integration of info in arabidopsis she switched over from botany to medicine and is now working on finding a connection between platelet serotonin and metabolic syndrome in hopes of finding a cure for Type II Diabetes.
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
Platelets are small fragments (have no nucleus) that are found in blood cells, they are used to help your body form clots to stop bleeding. Serotonin is often referred to as the “happy hormone”. Platelets release serotonin when they bind to a clot. There has been a link found between brown adipose tissue and an enzyme called tryptophanhydroxylase 1 (TPH 1) which produces serotonin. We are working to inhibit serotonin signaling or its synthesis in adipose tissue to make effective treatments for conditions that surround metabolic syndrome.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I got involved with research after a networking event put on by the biology department, to my surprise I was the only freshman there. I was able to connect with some of the professors and they offered me a position in their lab. I got involved with undergraduate research to be able to apply my learning in a lab setting as well as be able to do some basic lab work.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
Don’t be afraid to try it out! I was nervous to try it because I had assumed that I needed to know lab techniques beforehand, but when I asked, the professors told me that I would learn it all in the lab!
Major: Bioengineering
Mentor: Jennifer Davis, Cardiovascular Bioengineering
Contact: nadiasid@uw.edu
Current research project: Using Genetic Engineering Approaches to Inform Cardiac Wound Healing and the Fibrotic Response
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After cardiac injury, like a heart attack, a heart must repair dead, oxygen deficient tissue to prevent further damage. Since the heart has a limited ability to regenerate healthy muscle tissue, it instead relies on repair through fibrosis and scarring. Fibrosis is the excess accumulation of collagen and other stiff matrix components secreted by activated fibroblasts. Because of these stiff components, fibrotic buildup leaves the heart inflexible and unable to properly relax and contract. At the Davis Lab, we use in vivo and in vitro models to identify the networks that create the fibrotic response and use these networks to enhance the way the heart repairs itself.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
My freshman year at UW I was connected to my research mentor through Women in Science and Engineering. After shadowing in the research environment and learning lab techniques I decided I wanted to continue researching with the Davis Lab. I knew I wanted to do research because I was interested in learning about what research is and whether I wanted to pursue research as a career. Once I had some research experience I knew I wanted to stick with it because being a part of solving real world problems and seeing science in action is so cool and, of course, meaningful.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
Research is such a great way to learn about a subject but also about yourself and your own career and path, which can take a lot of persistence and enthusiasm, but it really pays off. Also don’t be afraid to ask for help! URP has a ton of resources for getting undergraduates connected with research opportunities which make the process of finding a lab – which can seem pretty daunting – much easier.
Major: B.S. Biochemistry (Molecular, Cellular, Developmental), B.S. Biochemistry
Mentor: Dr. Andy McGuire
Contact: irika@uw.edu
Current research project: Engineered CAR T-Cell Immunotherapy Approach for Epstein-Barr Virus-related Cancers
Irika is a junior in Biochemistry and Biology in Molecular, Cellular, and Development at the University of Washington. She has worked in the labs of Dr. Kaeberlein and Dr. Ginger in the past. Since June 2019, she has been working with Dr. Andy McGuire on CAR T-Cell therapy for Epstein-Barr Virus-related cancers.
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The herpesvirus Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) targets B-cells and epithelial cells. EBV contributes to 1.5% of all cases of human cancers worldwide, specifically cancers of B-cells and epithelial cells, and roughly 140,000 deaths/year. Currently, no treatment is available for EBV-related cancers, so I am working on an approach involving CAR T-Cells.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
My first experience with research was an internship as a rising senior in high school at InBios International, a biomedical company. At that time I was first understanding that research could be a career. The summer before freshman year I began working in Dr. Kaeberlein’s lab to gain some experience with research at the university level and I began researching in the Ginger Lab in Spring of freshman year. Recently, I have become a member of the McGuire Lab at Fred Hutch Cancer Research Center. I am involved in research because I am able to help find solutions to issues for the community and I enjoy the research.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
Attend resume and interview preparation workshops to polish your application. Then, find some projects or research areas that you like and contact professors! There is also a database of research opportunities online.
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Major: Psychology (intended)
Minor: Spanish
Mentor: Tonya Palermo, Psychology PhD; Alina Metje, MD
Contact: kslack12@uw.edu
Current research project: Seattle Children’s Hospital Research, & New Mom’s Connect
Katherine is currently a junior and she is planning to earn a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. Katherine has been doing research since fall of her sophomore year, working with Dr. Tonya Palermo at Seattle Children’s Hospital. Although she has been involved in several projects here, right now she is part of a follow-up study for young adults who were part of an internet-delivered chronic pain program as adolescents. This quarter, she is also starting research at New Mom’s Connect which evaluates the effectiveness of groups designed for low-income moms and their infants. In her free time she loves to play any sports or games with friends.
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The research I do for Seattle children’s hospital is a psychology lab, so a number of the studies I have been involved in have had a focus on cognitive behavioral therapy and its efficacy as a treatment for chronic pain. This condition is common in children and is often physically debilitating. It can also affect a child’s ability to participate in extracurricular activities, social events, and school. Therefore, finding ways to treat this condition is very important, and if psychological treatment is effective, it can also minimize pharmacological treatment for children and limit their use of opioids.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I started looking into research opportunities at the end of my freshman year because I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do in the future, and I had been told by many people that research can help you find out what you’re interested in. I got involved by meeting with people in the undergraduate research program so that I could learn more about what was offered at UW. Now, even though I am currently in the biology major, I am planning to switch to a BS in psychology because of my growing interest in the psychological research I have done in my labs.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
I would tell any student considering research to jump right in and do it! It can feel intimidating reaching out to people at first but this is how you can build a network and connections with people that will be really helpful going forward. If you feel overwhelmed, go talk with someone in undergraduate research advising because they are really helpful at helping introduce you to the opportunities that will be best for you depending on your major, experience, and schedule.
Major: Psychology
Mentor: Dr. Lynn Fainsilber Katz
Contact: ktspink@uw.edu
Current research project: Emotions, Marital Adjustment, and Pediatric Cancer
I am a UW transfer student in my senior year with a long term goal to pursue a PhD in Clinical Psychology.
I spend a lot of time reading, drinking good coffee, and exploring the outdoors with my two daughters and partner.
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My project is a part of a larger study investigating family adjustment in the context of pediatric cancer. When a child is diagnosed with pediatric cancer, it puts strain on the whole family, including the marital relationship. I am specifically examining emotional factors that may be implicated in marital strain or resilience during the first year of treatment.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I joined a research lab during my second quarter at the UW as a transfer student. I hoped to get a first-hand taste of the research world, and wanted to confirm my interest in becoming a researcher. It has done just that and more!
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
Whether you pursue a research career or not, as a part of research, you will have the chance to grow many valuable skills, whether successful teamwork, communication skills, problem-solving and more. It’s exciting to make discoveries and impact the world together!
Major: International Studies, Near Eastern Languages and Civilization
Minor: European Studies
Mentor: Kathie Friedman, International Studies
Contact: krvk@uw.edu
Current research project: In meiner Dunya gibt es keinen Platz für Marine Le Pen/In my world there is no place for Marine Le Pen: European Hip-Hop as a Response to Multiculturalism
Kayla is a graduating senior in the Jackson School of International Studies and the Near Eastern Languages and Civilization departments. She is interested in the themes ethnicity, identity, multiculturalism, and migration. During her time at UW she has been in various different research programs ranging from European Hip-Hop to populism in India. She is passionate language learner and excited about sharing her research experiences and hopes to get more humanities majors involved.
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What does the growing number of people growing up multicultural, migrant dense cities in Europe mean for established European notions of identity and belonging?
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
During my sophomore year I was visiting my academic advisor about feeling lost and wanting to get involved in more things, and she suggested I apply for my department’s honors program, which requires writing a 60 page original thesis. The deadline was that same day, but I got it extended, wrote up a proposal, and was accepted!
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
During my sophomore year I was visiting my academic advisor about feeling lost and wanting to get involved in more things, and she suggested I apply for my department’s honors program, which requires writing a 60 page original thesis. The deadline was that same day, but I got it extended, wrote up a proposal, and was accepted!
Major: Biology (Molecular, Cellular & Developmental) ; Neurobiology
Mentor: Tom Daniel, Biology
Contact: aavh9@uw.edu
Current research project: Measuring Timing and Activation of Flight Muscles in Manduca sexta through Electromyography (EMG) and High-Speed Infrared Video
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Very little is understood about the sub-cellular dynamics of muscle contraction. Using the moth, Manduca sexta, we are exploring muscle dynamics during flight. With a combination of electromyography (EMG) and X-ray diffraction techniques we are able to resolve changes in muscle at the angstrom-level (one ten-billionth of a meter). This enables us to better understand timing of activation, muscle deformation, and fluid forces during a contraction. Additionally, the muscles of Manduca are similar to the muscles of the human heart allowing us to make predictions about impacts of muscle dynamics on cardiovascular diseases.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I got involved with undergraduate research as part of a Marine Research Course at Friday Harbor Laboratories my sophomore year. I was inspired to explore research due to a presentation by Undergraduate Research Leaders in my FIG. I have now been involved in several research projects ranging from marine intertidal ecology, deep-sea fish biomechanics, to neuromuscular dynamics insect flight control. My diverse research experiences have allowed me to develop a wide variety of skills and explore interests in multiple fields. I am constantly honing in on questions that excite me.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
I would advise someone interested in undergraduate research to look at their perceived inexperience as an opportunity for growth. Being a first or second year student allows mentors to invest in your training and provides you time to grow in your role within the lab. Potential mentors are often impressed when undergraduate students find their work interesting and are interested in discussing their publications. Do not be afraid to reach out to professors you admire and ask other students about their research work. Embrace your inexperience as an opportunity to develop your skills and motivate your growth.
Major: Psychology and Neurobiology
Minor: Spanish
Mentor: Marcella Cline, Pharmacology
Contact: kwad@uw.edu
Current research project: The Role of Axonal Guidance Genes in the Regulation of Dopamine-Mediated Behaviors and Synaptic Connectivity.
Katherine is a senior graduating in 2020 with degrees in Psychology and Neurobiology. She is interested in the molecular basis of cognition and behavior, along with the philosophical implications, and hopes to eventually pursue a Ph.D. in Behavioral Neuroscience. During her time at the UW, Katherine has worked in labs studying social cognitive behavior, Autism Spectrum Disorders, and, now, dopamine circuitry in the brain via gene editing techniques. Katherine’s personal interests include painting and visiting new coffee shops.
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My current position as a research assistant at the Zweifel lab involves using gene editing techniques such as CRISPR/Cas9 on mice to study the role of axonal guidance proteins in the regulation of synaptic connectivity. Our primary area of focus is the Ventral Tegmental Area, which is known to produce a large amount of the brain’s dopamine.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I joined my first research lab winter quarter of my freshman year after being referred by a family friend. I knew I wanted to pursue a career in research and was determined to take advantage of the many research opportunities the UW offers as an R1 school.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
Don’t underestimate the power of networking. Reaching out to professors and classmates is by far the easiest way to get involved in research. The personal touch will get you farther than a perfect GPA on a resume.
Major: Biochemistry (BS)
Minor: Global Health
Mentor: Kavita Sharma, Comparative Medicine
Contact: wezemj@uw.edu
Current research project: SLAM
Jackson is currently a junior majoring in Biochemistry with a minor in Global Health at the University of Washington. He is currently working in the Ladiges Lab. The lab focuses on aging in mice and how various treatments can reduce the effects of aging. Jackson runs various tests on the mice and collects data for analysis. When he is not working in the lab he is playing pool with his friends or listening to music.
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I look at the affect various drugs have on aging in mouse models in conjunction with diet through various physical tests and through tissue analysis.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I got involved through a friend of a friend. During my freshman year I was looking for a lab to work in to gain experience and a general sense of what research was like. A friend of mine knew someone in the lab and contacted them. The lab happened to be able to take aboard another undergraduate student and so I was given the opportunity to be a research assistant.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
You are never “ready” for research in terms of your academic prowess. There is so much to learn that a textbook won’t be able to teach you. If you are interested and willing to learn there are faculty members who are looking for students with a passion for the field and a hard work ethic. Go for it.
Major: Neuroscience
Minor: Bioethics
Mentor: Dr. Chris Hague, Department of Pharmacology; Dr. Pierre Mourad, Department of Neurosurgery
Contact: rgw7@uw.edu
Current research projects: Gamma frequency induction by transcranial near-diagnostic ultrasound activates microglia and attenuates Aβ load
Robert George is a born and bred Texan from El PasoHe is a huge Star Wars fan as well as a comic book geekand also love listening to medical podcasts and staying up to date with MMA fights. Robert Geroge works as an Undergraduate Researcher in both the Department of Pharmacology and the Department of Neurosurgery. During his freshman year,he gained 1,200 hours as an emergency medical technician (EMT) on the back of the ambulance and learned a ton about emergency medicine. Currently, he is work as a Medical Scribe in the Emergency Department at Swedish Edmonds Hospital and continue to learn from the physicians and all of the staff there. His love and passion for the medical field is driven by his fascination of the brain as well as the magnificent anatomical structures of the body.
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Understanding the complexity of the alpha-1D adrenergic receptor; Utilizing ultrasound to treat different neurological diseases
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I became involved in research at the beginning of my sophomore year and have been active since. My research mentor was teaching a freshman seminar that I was taking my first year of college about pharmaceutical drugs. I read about some of the research he was doing and had a few conversations with him about it. Eventually, he offered me a lab tour and welcomed me into the lab that day. I’ve always wanted to gain a bigger picture of medicine and how science translates from the “lab bench” all the way to the bedside. Research allows me to look into this window and learn how this process occurs.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
Undergraduate research is a wonderful, fail-safe way to gain work experience that translates into any field. I would highly recommend getting involved regardless of if you want to do research after college. My advice would be to find research projects that you are really passionate about. Chances are UW has a faculty member tackling that research project or aspects of it as we speak.
Major: International Studies
Mentor: Walter Andrews, Near Eastern Languages and Civilization
Contact: jiony432@uw.edu
Current research project: The Newbook Digital Text: Joseph Mathia Svoboda Diaries Project
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Newbook Digital Texts is a scholarly publishing cooperative providing access to original sources unsuited to traditional print publication. It is a team research effort combining the work of experienced professionals, skilled graduate students, and a cohort of talented and committed undergraduate research interns.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I have been involved in Newbook since the Summer before my freshman year at UW. I found this research project from the Undergraduate Research Program Database. I have always known that I wanted undergraduate research as an integral part of my college experience and the Newbook perfectly fit the description of an ideal research project in my mind.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
Just go for it! You may have many concerns about starting a research project– you may think it will be too time consuming or you are not capable of it. But once you get started, you’ll realize that it will be worth your time and effort. You will gain many valuable experiences along the way.