Major: Neuroscience, Philosophy
Mentor(s): Paul Phillips, Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences and Department of Pharmacology
Contact: aasarch@uw.edu
Current research project: Characterization of Viral Mutagenesis in Transgenic Rodents
Ari is a senior majoring in Neuroscience and Philosophy. After learning about the robust research atmosphere at the University of Washington, I joined the Phillips Lab to help investigate the long term effects of various drug addictions. I previously worked on the long term effects of opioid and adolescent alcohol use, but am now researching the long term effects of cocaine use.
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
Investigating the Long-term effects of drug addiction and the reversibility of those changes.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I became involved with research during my Sophomore year after using the URP’s database and finding a lab that fit my interests. Additionally, I initially applied to labs to fill the requirements of some medical schools, but instead fell for the community, process, and topics associated with my research once part of the process.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
Explore! Do not just apply to the first lab you see – try to find something that matches your interests over somewhere that just wants another set of hands.
Major: Chemical Engineering: Nanoscience and Molecular Engineering
Mentor: Mike McKenna, Chemical Engineering; Dr. Elizabeth Nance, Chemical Engineering
Contact: bbkazu@uw.edu
Current research project: A Fluorescence-Based Approach for Characterizing Changes in Perineuronal Net Morphology
Brendan Ball is a senior in the Chemical Engineering department at the University of Washington. Brendan is inspired to apply his knowledge learned from the classroom towards impactful research discoveries. Since June of 2019, he has been researching in the Nance Research Lab to help create a Python package that can characterize and measure parts in the brain. He aspires to develop affordable medicine and treatments for those who need it. When he is not researching or studying, you will often see Brendan spending time with friends, family, and in the outdoors!
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
My research work involves Python to help measure and characterize parts of the brain. They are more specifically called perineuronal nets. Perineuronal nets, also abbreviated as PNNs, are important in the brain because they help protect our neurons, and form new neuron connections throughout our lives. As we age, the number of PNNs in our brain increases and forms new connections. My current work is to use a series of Python codes to help me accurately measure and predict the physical characteristics of the PNNs. If I can successfully develop this, the code can help us distinguish between healthy and unhealthy PNNs (healthy and unhealthy brains), which can lead to a doorway towards diagnosis tools and treatment for neurodegenerative diseases!
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I began my journey as an undergraduate researcher when I was a first year student at the UW. I got involved after listening to my FIG group presentation on research, and that idea really caught my attention. I then got involved in my first research group, and began exploring many interesting fields of study, until I found my place into the Nance Lab working on brain diseases. I wanted to get involved as an undergraduate researcher because I can directly impact the lives of others while using the knowledge that I learned from my coursework!
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
It is never too early to start! All you need is a passion for a subject, and a willingness to learn! Research is a great opportunity to learn what you enjoy doing! And who knows, it could be the determining factor that inspires you towards a different career path!
Major: Computer Science
Mentor: Shwetak Patel, Computer Science; Jennifer Mankoff, Computer Science
Contact: jcao22@uw.edu
Current research project:Wearable Cardiovascular Sensing using Pulse Transit Time
Jerry is a junior in Computer Science at the University of Washington. He is interested in research addressing healthcare and accessibility. Currently, his main focus is on applying optical sensors to non-invasively sense cardiovascular parameters such as arterial stiffness and blood pressure.
His other projects include developing a framework in Fusion 360 to generate optimized tactile maps, engineering a biosensor for cannabidiol, and analyzing patterns in the NIH’s COVID-19 Supply Chain Response.
Jerry also fosters a love for indoor farming and 3D-printing through his leadership in Project Indoor Farm (IF) and WOOF3D, respectively, which are two student groups at the University of Washington.
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My current research project is to develop an unobtrusive device for individuals with postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) that uses pulse transit time and pulse wave analysis to continuously monitor cardiovascular parameters such as arterial stiffness, blood pressure, and heart rate.
We can get a visualization of a pulse wave using an optical sensor consisting of an LED that shines into an artery and a photodiode that measures the amount of reflected light. The fluctuation in reflected light shows the changes in blood volume at that specific point in the artery and when plotted in the time domain, creates a graph called a photoplethysmogram (PPG). With two PPGs, we can calculate pulse transit time (PTT), which is the time it takes for a pulse wave to travel an arbitrary distance. Prior work has shown PTT and subtle features extracted from a PPG to be correlated with parameters such as arterial stiffness and blood pressure.
The resulting system can improve the lives of 1-3 million Americans with POTS by lessening the burden of monitoring their condition and predicting the onset of adverse symptoms—which include fainting, dizziness, and nausea—that result from the body’s inability to regulate vasodilation and heart rate.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I got involved in research in the 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 wanted to get involved in research because (1) I knew I learned better through hands-on learning, (2) it would allow me to deeply explore topics that I’m passionate in, and (3) I enjoyed the smaller environment with like-minded individuals.
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 shouldn’t be afraid to just go to their office hours, introduce yourself, and ask for advice!
Major: Earth and Space Sciences
Mentor: Alexis Licht (Earth and Space Sciences)
Contact: ashikac@uw.edu
Current research project: Reconstructing Paleoenvironments of Middle Eocene Myanmar using Stable Isotope Data of Paleosols from the Pondaung Formation
Ashika is a junior majoring in the physics track of Earth and Space Sciences and minoring in Chemistry. Since Fall 2019, she has been working in the Licht Lab on research involving paleoenvironments and isotope geochemistry. She is an aspiring astrobiologist, and her research interests lie in biogeochemistry and the co-evolution of life and earth. Outside of class and research, you can usually find her working on a digital art project, cooking, or learning how to do something new!
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
My project over the last year involved gathering stable carbon isotope data from calcium carbonate nodules in fossil soil samples from the Pondaung Formation in Myanmar, which date to around 40 million years ago. This is coeval with the dispersal of early anthropoid primates from Asia to Africa. By measuring the ratio of 13C to 12C in soil carbonates and comparing it to modern measurements, we can estimate precipitation amounts, temperatures, and vegetation type in the past. Reconstructions from this particular sample site in Myanmar thus help us contextualize the environment and path in which this primate dispersal occurred.
My research over the past few months involves numerically modeling the formation of these soil carbonates to better understand their accumulation in Myanmar conditions. This information will help us improve isotopic interpretations of past and modern temperatures in Myanmar.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I got into research the fall of my sophomore year by emailing a professor whose class I had taken that I was interested in working with. I had always considered research as something I wanted to get into during my time at UW. Taking a few core classes in my major in my freshman year and being able to experience firsthand some of the basic methods used to investigate Earth’s processes and history was what really pushed me towards finding research to work on.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
It’s okay to start out in research without any prior experience or feel like you may not have the qualifications at first. Once you know you want to be involved in research, don’t be intimidated by reaching out to faculty you’re interested in working with, and let them know why you want to work with them! Additionally, it’s fine to not know exactly what you want to do when you start out – not everyone does, and you can have multiple research projects as a learning experience to discover your interests. Research can be an extremely rewarding experience in helping you discover more about a specific facet of your field and gain useful skills.
Major: Neuroscience
Mentor: Dr. Josh Russell, Pathology, Dr. Matt Kaeberlein, Pathology
Contact: rahulc99@uw.edu
Current research project: Developing models for studying the impacts of Alzheimer’s Disease on EV signaling
Rahul (he/him) is a rising junior studying Neuroscience with a minor in Bioethics at the University of Washington. He is currently studying how Alzheimer’s Disease can be modeled in the nematode C. elegans, as well as how extracellular vesicles play a role in contributing to the onset of the disease. He is currently developing and testing new models for Tau protein expression in muscle tissue, and self-learning new techniques in data analysis as a remote project.
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
Alzheimer’s Disease is one of the leading causes of death for people over the age of 65 in the United States. Novel research into early detection and lifespan extension treatment of this disease is desperately needed. Research into extracellular vesicles promises to be an important biomarker for early detection of Alzheimer’s in humans. The research I am conducting in the Kaeberlein Lab is examining whether Tau and Amyloid-Beta, common Alzheimer’s linked proteins, are being transmitted from selectively expressed tissues to other neighboring tissues. I am also conducting a project to determine if selective tissue vesicles can be isolated from bulk secretions, which would increase the efficacy as a biomarker in humans.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I have always been interested in Alzheimer’s Disease and neuroscience from a young age. I got involved in undergraduate research during my senior year of high school. I was given an amazing opportunity by the Kaeberlein Lab to get involved in the research at such a young age, and over the last three years I have learned so much about myself and my passions in science.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
Put yourself out there and go for it! It’s never too early to get involved, and it may turn out to be one of the most rewarding experiences of your undergraduate career. Many professors and PIs are excited to get undergraduates involved in their projects as well. We are all so lucky to attend an amazing research 1 university, and there is research across the UW in almost every field imaginable, and there is a lab/project out there waiting for you!
Major: Biochemistry
Mentor: Jennifer Rabbitts, Department of Anesthesiology, Seattle Children’s Hospital
Contact: nchand@uw.edu
Current research project: Project 1) Associations Between Post-Surgical Acute Pain Functionality and Surgical Outcomes in Youth Project Project 2) Prevalence and Predictors of Chronic Pain Following Traumatic Musculoskeletal Injury
Alina is an Interdisciplinary Honors student at the University of Washington. She is interested in intersections between the fields of biology, computer science, and sociology. Alina was first exposed to research as a volunteer researcher in the Kutter Bacteriophage Lab at the Evergreen State College. She later interned in the Subramanian Immunology Lab at the Institute for Systems Biology. She began her research at UW as part of the SCAN Design Innovations in Pain Internship, under the mentorship of Dr. Jennifer Rabbitts. In the Rabbitts lab she studies the development of chronic pain. This research is of particular interest to her as it considers not only the physiological determinants of pain, but also the sociocultural determinants. After graduating, Alina plans to attend graduate school. She hopes to continue conducting research that addresses issues surrounding healthcare from both biological and sociocultural perspectives.
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
Chronic pain is pain that lasts for longer than three months and causes significant emotional distress or disability. Chronic pain takes a major toll on both patients and society as a whole. It is estimated that America alone’s persistent pain costs over $560 billion annually. My research aims to understand how and why chronic pain develops after surgeries and traumatic injuries. This research is important for identifying those at risk for chronic pain and for developing interventions targeting
risk factors to improve long-term outcomes after surgery and trauma.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I got involved in research because I wanted to explore science beyond the classroom. When I first got to UW I reached out to several professors doing interesting research, but unfortunately none of them had openings for me. Then I met with a URP advisor who advised me to apply to the SCAN Design Innovations in Pain research internship, which resulted in my first undergraduate research opportunity.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
You might face some rejection, but don’t give up. Go to the Undergraduate Research Program instead!
Major: Bioengineering
Mentor: James Lai, Department of Bioengineering
Contact: zoechau@uw.edu
Current research project: Profiling of Tissue-Specific Extracellular Vesicles Using Oligonucleotides
Zoe is a rising sophomore majoring in Bioengineering at the University of Washington. She is very interested in combining her interest in engineering and medicine to improve current healthcare practices. Since October of 2019, she has been working in the Lai Lab to develop exosome analysis techniques in application to diagnostics. During her free time, Zoe enjoys learning new languages, crafting, and practicing the piano.
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
Previously thought of as “molecular garbage bins”, exosomes are membrane-bound extracellular vesicles that have recently demonstrated rapid growth in research and hold significant clinical potential. In particular, exosomes have demonstrated broad potential in diagnostics due to their vast array of tissue-specific surface markers and molecular contents. I am currently working on developing a tool that exploits cascade reactions to characterize and isolate tissue-specific exosomes with the goal of expediting current exosome analysis techniques.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
After hearing the exciting experiences of upperclassmen and learning about the significant relationship between research and medicine, I knew I wanted to dive into research as soon as I could after starting at the UW. During the summer before freshman year I attended a URP information session and geared with this knowledge, began contacting the labs whose research I was interested in. After several attempts, I successfully joined the Lai Lab in the UW Department of Bioengineering.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone! While research may be intimidating, each attempt at approaching a lab of your interest will only get easier. UW hosts an incredible amount of diverse research opportunities, and I am certain that you will learn and develop new skills in the process of diving into research.
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: Biochemistry
Mentor: Dr. Franck Kalume, Neurological Surgery
Contact: egc2@uw.edu
Current research project: Contribution of PV and SST Interneurons to Seizure Phenotype in a Mouse Model of Ndufs4-related Leigh Syndrome
Elizabeth is a current senior studying Biochemistry and minoring in Anthropology at the University of Washington. She is interested in brain research, in particular, work concerning neurodegenerative diseases after personally knowing individuals suffering from these illnesses. Since January of 2019, Elizabeth has been working with Dr. Franck Kalume and his lab at Seattle Children’s Research Institute, focusing on characterizing the epilepsy phenotype and other symptoms of Leigh Syndrome using mice models. She hopes to continue this research and to bring more awareness concerning neurodegenerative diseases and its research to the community.
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
This past year, I have been looking at Leigh syndrome(LS), the most common type of pediatric mitochondrial disease, and its association with loss-of-function mutations in genes that encode for proteins in the electron transport chain in mitochondria. Recent studies in our lab have shown that knockout of the Ndufs4 gene in GABAergic interneurons are the key driver to seizures in the mouse model. As a result, I have been focusing on which subtypes of interneurons are the leading cause of the seizures, focusing on two major subtypes of GABAergic interneurons. A better understanding of mechanisms underlying epileptic seizures will lead to the development of effective treatments for LS-related epilepsy.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I got involved in undergraduate research winter quarter of my Freshman year where I spent much of the Autumn quarter looking for an undergraduate research opportunity. Coming into the UW, I knew I wanted to participate in undergraduate research as it would be a great opportunity for me to grow in my professional career, however, I just did not know where to get started. Fortunately, I had an Undergraduate Research Leader come into my FIG class to share about his experience and how I can get started. I started by attending an Undergraduate Research Info Session where they shared many details on how to approach potential mentors as well as how to best prepare your resume to be successful.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
Advice I would give to a student interested in undergraduate research would be to remain curious and be proactive about your work. Once I had my research position, it was easy for me to remain complacent about my work, often just going through the motions. But use this research opportunity to the fullest! Ask your mentor questions or even other lab members. Ask them about the research they are doing, lab processes, or even advice for graduate school or a future career. Often, they have gone through exactly what you hope to do in the future!
Major: Chemistry
Mentor: Anne McCoy, Chemistry; Mark Boyer, Chemistry
Contact: cchiu820@uw.edu
Current research project: Investigating the Effects on the Spectrum of Water Molecules
Chloe is a third-year undergraduate student pursuing her Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry at the University of Washington and is expected to graduate in 2022. She is interested in eventually working in the biomedical field as an oncologist or a cancer researcher. She is currently working in the McCoy Group looking at the effects on the spectrum of water molecules. When she’s not studying for her classes, she enjoys trying new restaurants, baking, and traveling.
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
Water clusters have been proposed to play a significant role in atmospheric processes and suggested to help understand hydrogen bonding more thoroughly. In order to understand the physics of water clusters better, we have to first build a greater understanding of the energetics and trends that individual water molecules have. Then we can look at water clusters and observe how the energetics and patterns change due to the interactions with other water molecules. Thus, we are attempting to make observations about patterns in water molecules by generating spectra and making connections between the spectra and the chemical structure.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I started doing undergraduate research during the winter quarter of my freshman year. I was highly interested in getting involved in research because I wanted to explore different fields of research to help me gain insight in various career pathways. I also wanted to hone both my scientific thinking and communication abilities. With opportunity and timing, I was offered a spot in the McCoy Group, a team studying quantum mechanics in chemical systems with the goal of exploring novel investigative tools, and I have been learning so much and enjoying my experience with them since then.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
Persistence is a key factor in being able to earn a spot in a research lab, so don’t give up! You should make a list of research labs you’re interested in, and then tailor your resume and cover letters to fit the position. You can attend workshops at the URP to help you with that.
Major: Pre-major (intended Biology)
Mentor: Department of Otolaryngology
Contact: tonypony@uw.edu
Current research project: Examining 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.
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
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!!
Major: Aeronautics & Astronautics
Mentor: Jinkyu Yang, Aeronautics & Astronautics
Contact: iac3@uw.edu
Current research project: Optimizing Millifluidic Devices to Reduce Shear Stresses on Coral Propogates
Isaiah is a senior undergraduate student in the department of Aeronautics & Astronautics. He does research using fluid dynamics in the context of coral reefs. He is also passionate about increasing accessibility to STEM fields in underrepresented communities. He tries to contribute towards this as an ambassador for the Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation (LSAMP), a program that seeks to increase the retention and participation of underrepresented minorities in STEM fields.
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
I use engineering techniques to contribute towards coral reef restoration efforts. In particular, I use fluid dynamics to assist in the making of devices that are used to study coral reefs.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I got involved near the end of my sophomore year on a study abroad research program in oceanography. I was not satisfied with the kind of work that was available in student organizations, I wanted more autonomy over my work. I heard about this program through LSAMP and have since switched my intended career trajectory from aerospace engineering to oceanography.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
Be open to the different kinds of topics that are available to you and make the effort to learn about these topics before you contact professors you are interested in working with. Doing research is a commitment, so having some idea of what you are getting yourself into by reading papers based on the work available is a good idea. If you don’t know where to start reading, ask a professor for guidance! Just because they may not end up being your research mentor does not mean they can’t give you resources to learn about the topic. Professors get really excited when someone else is interested in their research, so they are usually very willing to help!
Major: Biology(General)
Mentor: Dr. Samuel Wasser (Biology)
Contact: goellis@uw.edu
Current research project: A Comprehensive Analysis of the American Black Bear Diet Through DNA Metabarcoding
Gwen is a graduating senior in Biology. With a focus on the intersection of ecology and genetics, she has been working on wildlife conservation research in Washington for the past two years. Her current project is on using molecular techniques to discern the American black bear’s diet in Washington state and how it has been impacted by human environmental modifications and the human-wildlife-interface. She hopes that her research will help develop important conservation guidelines and inform others about their local ecosystems.
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
Knowing the composition of the American black bear’s diet will inform us on how human activity has influenced their reliance on atypical food sources, either in the form of prey or vegetation. This information can be used to inform environmental management and wildlife conservation guidelines in Washington.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I first became involved in undergraduate research at University of Washington my sophomore year when I learned about a lab that utilized molecular techniques for wildlife conservation. After having taken classes that solidified my interest in the intersection of genetics and ecology, I was excited to see that there was being research done at the University that directly fit my interests and that I could become involved in. I wanted to get involved with undergraduate research because I thought it would help me gain a deeper understanding of my academic and career path, as well as let me learn more deeply about the topics I was interested in.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
I think it is important for students to understand that their interests do not have to be set in stone for them to get involved in undergraduate research. Finding a lab whose research intrigues you is enough to start getting involved, you may find that this research is what really compels you.
Major: Biochemistry
Mentor: Joyce Yi-Frazier- Seattle Children’s Research Institute
Contact: bellisor@uw.edu
Current research project: Palliative Care and Resilience Lab – Promoting Resilience in Stress Management
Britney is a junior in Biochemistry at the University of Washington. She is very interested in applying her biochemistry knowledge to help advance treatment plans in Medicine. Since January of 2019, she has been working with the Palliative Care and Research Team at Seattle Children’s Research Institute. There she works with her mentors on the PRISM Project (Promoting Resilience in Stress Management) with pediatric diabetes patients as well as advanced cancer patients. She has also worked on her own individual project that explored associations between glycemic control, using A1c values, with diabetes-distress, resilience, and psychosocial comorbidities, such as depression, over the first five years of diagnosis. As for her personal interests, Britney loves to hike, read books of various genres, and watch movies with friends.
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
The research that I have worked on has identified a group of adolescents, between the ages of 10-17, who are at risk of developing poor physical and psychosocial outcomes following their diagnosis of Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus. Specifically, we have determined that a crucial period, that will influence the patient’s projected physical and psychosocial outcomes, occurs within the first year of their diagnosis. Understanding this, we can preemptively work with patients and physicians to introduce targeted psychosocial interventions with the goal of boosting resilience and decreasing diabetes related distress within the first year. By doing this we can improve long term outcomes and reduce health concerns that are common within this specific patient population.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I became involved in research during the Winter quarter of my freshman year. I wanted to get involved in research to be able to start applying what I have learned from my classes to the research that I do. I also wanted to be able to get involved because I wanted to learn more about the research process to see if I wanted to do this as a career.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
If you are interested in research, my advice for you is to push yourself to get involved and stay involved! Find a topic that piques your interest and allows you to learn more about something you have a passion in.
Major: Bioengineering
Mentor: Masaoki Kawasumi, UWSOM Dermatology
Contact: urp@uw.edu
Current research project: Epigenome Editing of DNA Demethylation and Histone Acetylation to Inhibit Skin Cancer
Devin is a Taiwanese-American originally from Honolulu, HI and is currently a senior pursuing Bioengineering at the University of Washington. Since January 2020, he has been part of the Kawasumi Lab, which researches the mechanisms and prevention of skin cancers. Currently, Devin is working on undoing specific epigenetic changes found only in skin cancer cells to see if he can reverse the malignancy of cancer cells. In his free time, he enjoys outdoor activities, spearfishing, playing music, and visual art.
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
Carcinogens, such as ultraviolet light, cause changes to healthy cells which can result in cancerous cells. Previous research has identified where and what these changes are, but it is still unknown what happens if you undo these changes in cancer cells. We hypothesize that our experiments will make the cancer cells less cancerous and this could lead to a new specific treatment for metastatic skin cancers with minimal toxicity to normal cells, unlike chemotherapy.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I met my PI through work at my previous job, the financial manager assistant for the UWSOM Division of Dermatology. I officially joined the lab in January 2020 and joined because cancer is personal and I chose the research capstone path for my degree.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
Normal method: find a research lab you’re curious about, study the nature of the lab’s research (read their publications), email PI (possibly multiple times as they get loads of emails), prepare for an interview.
What I did: Met PI during work so I somewhat knew the nature of the research, asked PI in person next time I saw him about joining his lab (pretty much an impromptu interview and I was prepared)
Major: Aeronautics and Astronautics
Mentor: NASA Langley Research Center
Contact: pfollis@uw.edu
Current research project: Ultrasonic Cure Monitoring and Defect Detection in Composites
Patrick is a junior in the Aeronautics and Astronautics Department of Engineering. He is interested in aircraft and spacecraft design. His research, done through a NASA internship at Langley Research Center, aims to make airplanes safer, more efficient, and more comfortable. This is achieved by monitoring composite materials during cure and identifying structural defects early on. Outside of research, Patrick enjoys bouldering, hiking, reading, and creating YouTube videos. He is happy to talk about his research experiences and how to get involved within UW or otherwise!
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
Most composite materials are “created” during cure in an autoclave, which is similar to baking them in a high-pressure oven. During this process defects can form in the composite (such as air pockets) that compromise the strength and reliability of the material. Traditionally composite materials must be rigorously tested after cure. I researched a way to use ultrasonic waves to scan composites during cure, so defects could be detected more efficiently.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I started with an internship at NASA Kennedy Space Center in fall 2019, and using that stepping stone I got the research internship at NASA Langley in winter 2020. I wanted to get involved to boost my experience in the aerospace field and learn about the academic process of pursuing new information.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
Be proactive and don’t be discouraged easily.
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.
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
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 Public Health-Global Health
Mentor: Dr. Elizabeth Dawson-Hahn
Contact: sgarciap@uw.edu
Current research project: Understanding the Parenting Strength , Stress and Law needs of Latinx Families
Samantha is a rising Junior intending to major in Public Health-Global Health. She is interested in serving underserved communities by becoming a PA to improve basic primary care because she believe it is critical to understand the social and environmental determinants of health that contribute to the development of diseases and health inequity. Starting this summer, she started interning at the Child Health, Behavior and Development Center at Seattle Children’s Research Institute investigating migrant health outcomes.
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
My research focuses on investigating the strengths, stressors and law needs of Latinx parents who have recently migrated to the United States. There are 4.5 million Latinx citizen children in mixed immigration status families in the US. This vulnerable immigration status is associated with poor health, development and social service access. The transition to undocumented status can cause distress and anxiety as well as impact the access and enrollment of children in public services that in turn effect the quality of their housing, work and social environments. Fortunately, this adversity can be mitigated by responsive parenting that promotes resilience and buffers the impact of immigration stress on child health. The promotion of resilience aims to be utilized as a mediating factor that buffers a child from adversity by reducing the impact of trauma, reducing negative chain reactions stemming from trauma, and enabling opportunities for recovery from trauma. Given the health impact immigration status has on families, there is a need to improve access to immigration legal education and mitigate parenting behaviors. This research study aims to adapt a parenting Behavorial skills intervention—Social, Emotional, Academic Competence for Children and Parents (SEACAP). This intervention will also be paired with immigration law and policy education and resources such as safety planning and “know your rights training.”
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I first got involved in Undergraduate Research the Summer of 2020 when I was involved in the Underrepersented Minority Internship program at Seattle Children’s Research Institute.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
Don’t be afraid to make that first step! There are so many fields of research with various methodologies, you will find your niche in research. Undergraduate research is not just about the work you are investigating but it is about building your network, increasing your professional development skills and taking what you learned in class and applying that to the real word.
Major: Medical Anthropology and Global Health
Minor: African Studies
Mentor: Rachel Chapman, Department of Anthropology
Contact: mgirma99@uw.edu
Current research project: ተስፋ መቁረጥ (The loss of hope):The Precarity of Hope and Healing in Ethiopia’s Medically Plural Health System
Meron Girma is a senior at the University of Washington, pursuing a degree in Medical Anthropology and Global Health with a minor in African Studies. She is interested in ethnographic and qualitative studies to look at healthcare equity and implementation in Ethiopia. She hopes to continue her research as she pursues an MPH/MD. Her ultimate goal is to use findings from her research, namely patient experiences to promote health policy and create a united healthcare system that fits the needs of people in Ethiopia particularly in rural areas.
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
Meron recently spent three months in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia conducting ethnographic research on healthcare accessibility within the city’s medically plural health system. This project explored the efficacy of current health options by gathering data directly from patients and healthcare providers. The healthcare itinerary, defined as the health seeking journey for individual sufferers, exposed structural failures in the Ethiopian health care system, but more importantly reveals how these structural failures give way to a sense of hopelessness that results in patient disengagement from the healthcare system. The findings of this project will serve as input for the Ministry of Health in terms of generating scientific evidence for policy reform.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I got involved in my first research lab my fall quarter of sophomore year that was focused on stem cell regeneration. I was interested in medicine and health, so I did what most students in STEM did and joined a lab. I worked in a couple different labs on and off for a little while until I realized lab work was not for me, and that was okay. Instead through further exploration I discovered my interests to be within ethnographic research where I can deeply engage with participants and community members to curate solutions to health disparities.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
Don’t give up! Before I got my first research position, I emailed more than a dozen professors and received almost only rejection emails. If I hadn’t gone through that process, I wouldn’t have found my current project with such an amazing mentor. So don’t be afraid to reach out to professors and PI’s, and try not to feel discouraged if you don’t hear back or get rejected, you will eventually find the perfect position! :)
Major: Molecular, Cellular & Developmental Biology
Mentor: Dr. Michael Bamshad, Department of Pediatrics and Dr. Alejandro Rico-Guevara, Department of Biology
Contact: kimtha@uw.edu
Current research project: Spectrum of Variants in TPM2, TNNT3, and TNNI2 that Cause Distal Arthrogryposis
Kim is a junior majoring in Molecular Biology at the University of Washington. She is interested in exploring the intersection between metabolism and genetics to understand their impact on diseases like obesity and cancer. Since June of 2018 she has been working in the Bamshad lab to identify and expand the spectrum of causal variants in a genetic disorder known as distal arthrogryposis. Recently, she has started working on a project with the Guevara lab to understand the flight trajectories of hummingbirds through data analysis. In her free time she enjoys reading webcomics, chatting with her friends, and playing Among Us.
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
Distal arthrogryposis (DA) is a genetic disorder characterized by the presence of congenital limb contractures. DA has many subtypes and has a lot of variability in phenotypes within those subtypes, making diagnosis challenging. To understand why this variability occurs and better define each DA type, it’s important to first identify what’s causing the DA. My role in this is to screen the DNA of individuals affected by DA and identify these variants. This is a simple but important step to improve our understanding of this disorder.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I got involved with research the summer before my first year of college through a program known as Genom ALVA at the University of Washington. I find joy in discovering new information and patterns, and research seemed like the perfect route to do just that.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
If you have even the slightest interest, go for it! I believe a lot of people may feel hesitant about getting into research because they feel like they’re unprepared, but you don’t need to know everything before beginning a project. Mentors are very kind and patient people who are more than willing to help you.
Major: Biology (Physiology)
Mentor: Anthony Grillo PhD, Department of Pathology; Grace Wandell MD MS, Department of Otolaryngology
Contact: havt@uw.edu
Current research project: Hypoxia as a Therapy for Mitochondrial Disease
Vivian is currently a senior pursuing a Bachelor’s in Biology. She is from Olympia, WA – the states capital! She has been involved in research since her freshman year and is currently working on two projects! She is an undergraduate researcher in the Kaeberlein Lab studying the pathobiology of mitochondrial dysfunction in diseased mice. Her current clinical research is focused on optimizing technology to accurately identify laryngeal masses at the UW Otolaryngology – Heck and Neck Surgery Center. In the future, she hopes to go to medical school to become a physician scientist. In whatever free time she has left, Vivian likes to go on food adventures around Seattle with her friends.
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
My work in the Kaeberlein Lab focuses on using hypoxia, which is a low oxygen environment, as an age delaying intervention in mice. Our mice lack the NDUFS4 gene, which then leads them to have shorter lifespans and develop neurological symptoms, closely modeling Leigh Syndrome in humans. By reducing the oxygen tension, symptoms of disease and survival of the mice improve.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I got involved in undergraduate research during the winter quarter of my freshman year.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
Just do it! There are plenty of opportunities for research at UW. No matter what your major or class standing is, you will find a position perfect for you if you reach out.
Major: Computer Science, Bioengineering, ACMS
Mentor: Dr. Paul Yager, Professor in Department of Bioengineering
Contact: hallisky@uw.edu
Current research project: The Removal of Excess Tryptophan in the Small Intestine via Orally Ingested Hydrogel Microspheres
Skyler is a senior pursuing a triple major in computer science, bioengineering, and applied and computational mathematical sciences. He started research in the Yager Lab his sophomore year, where he has worked on developing a solution for people with kidney failure. Along the way, he has also participated in research in the bioinformatics department. Now, Skyler continues his kidney research while also working on a natural language processing project to identify misinformation in text. Outside of research, Skyler loves to practice piano, and watch and play basketball.
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
The kidneys are an important organ that filter out different toxins that naturally occur in our blood. People who have kidney failure suffer adverse effects from toxin accumulation in their blood, so they have to either get a kidney transplant, which is rare, or go onto dialysis, a laborious process that is not fully effective. My work seeks to create an alternative to dialysis: a simple, easy-to-use solution that would help patients with kidney failure remove toxins from their blood. We are currently engineering different orally ingestible hydrogels that could do just this: remove toxins from the patient’s body, as a substitute for a functional kidney.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I got involved in research at the beginning of my sophomore year, when I emailed a bioengineering professor who’s work I had read about and was interested in. Research was appealing to me because I wanted to get hands-on experience using my creativity and problem-solving skills to have a real impact. My undergraduate research has been just as rewarding as I anticipated!
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
Reach out to lots of people and don’t be discouraged by rejections! It is totally fine to “cold email” professors and write them a quick note on why you’re interested in working with them. Applying to lots of places increases the chance that you will be accepted somewhere, while also providing flexibility for you to choose which lab to join. Finally, if a professor doesn’t have a project right away, try reaching out to graduate students in the same lab! A lot of them are more than happy to mentor undergraduates, so don’t be afraid to reach out to them.
Major: Computer Science, Bioengineering, ACMS
Mentor: Dr. Paul Yager, Professor in Department of Bioengineering
Contact: urp@uw.edu
Current research project: The Removal of Excess Tryptophan in the Small Intestine via Orally Ingested Hydrogel Microspheres
Alex is a sophomore in Engineering at the University of Washington. Pursuing a major in bioengineering, he is interested in applying engineering principles to solve problems in medicine and research. He has developed a pipette guide that will assist lab techs in performing work that would otherwise be incredibly difficult for those with unsteady hands or low-acuity vision. In his off time Alex enjoys combat sports and cooking in equal measure.
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
Electrophoresis is an essential lab procedure, commonly used for genotyping and distinguishing sources of DNA. The most difficult step in the procedure requires pipetting fluid into small wells in a thin gel assay. Those with unsteady hands or low acuity vision could easily puncture the gel or miss the wells entirely, making this procedure tedious and time-consuming for all but the most steady-handed. This guide directs pipettes to the correct location and depth every time, making performing electrophoresis much more fast and accessible for hard of sight researchers.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I searched for a lab position on the URP database where I could apply my skills and I was interested in the research they were doing. I found this position early in my freshman fall quarter, and I’ve loved it here.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
Be open minded about the positions you apply to, keeping in mind that there will be opportunities to gain more responsibilities once you get in.
Major: Physiology
Mentor: Steve Perlmutter, Physiology and Biophysics
Contact: vasanj@uw.edu
Current research project: Multisite, Activity Dependent Spinal Stimulation to Promote Motor Function after Cervical Spinal Cord Injury
Vasan is a senior graduating in spring of 2021 with a Bachelor’s of Sciences Degree in Physiology. Since 2018, Vasan has been working with Dr. Perlmutter to develop a novel therapeutic solution to help patients with spinal cord injuries regain the precise functioning of their hands and arms. Vasan is also very passionate about research in brain computer interfaces and how they can be implemented effectively in healthcare. In his free time, Vasan loves to go bouldering, go on hikes and take photos, and play sports with friends.
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
Spinal cord injuries are devastating and can result in the loss of voluntary function of all four limbs of the body. The research that I am a part of investigates the use of implantation devices that send small electrical impulses to the muscles of the arm. These electrical impulses allow for the use of the particular limb despite the damaged state of the spinal cord.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I began research in my sophomore year because I had originally chosen UW for its prestige and resources in research. I knew that I wanted to be involved when coming into college so my motivation drove me to search for opportunities. I searched the URP Database for available research positions in my field of interest and then proceeded to email the labs, making sure to indicate my interests. Research has been a huge part of both my personal and academic development throughout college and I would never exchange it for any other experience.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
The biggest mistake I see undergrads in research making is that they often stick through in a research lab for a year or longer even if they don’t enjoy what they are doing in their position or in the lab in general. There are SO many opportunities out there and you shouldn’t be afraid to try multiple labs. Most labs require a minimum of 10 hours/week commitment which is a lot of time to waste if you are not enjoying the work that the lab is doing. Express your voice and don’t be shy to ask for more important duties in the lab either, the worst answer is “No”.
Major: Computer Science
Mentor: Maya Cakmak, Computer Science & Engineering
Contact: rk1997@uw.edu
Current research project: Effective Measurement And Intervention of Adolescent Stress Levels with A Social Robot Named EMAR (Ecological Momentary Assessment Robot)
Raida is a senior majoring in Computer Science at the University of Washington (Seattle). She is currently pursuing undergraduate research in the Human-Centered Robotics Lab of Allen School, where her research focuses on formulating techniques to effectively measure and intervene stress levels in school-attending teens through the means of social robots. The excitement of meeting critical human needs and achieving social good inspires her to create high-quality technologies. She decided to major in Computer Science, as she really likes the idea of having a broader impact in society by using her tech skills to solve real-world problems. She aspires to contribute to the field of computing with a focus on sustainable human and social good through the lens of robotics, machine learning, and human-computer interaction.
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
I work on human-robot interaction (HRI), the intersection between robotics and human-computer interaction (HCI). I’m developing human-interactive capabilities in a therapist robot to offer suggestions for reducing stress in teens analyzing their historical and current mental-health data. Adolescents are victims of high levels of stress in their lives that usually result from school, relationships, and family life. The data of fluctuating stress levels can facilitate formulating effective stress measurement and reduction techniques for teens, which is imperative to support this vulnerable population. Today’s teens are the first generation to spend a lifetime living and interacting with computing technologies, such as robots. A wide array of research in human-robot interaction (HRI) focuses on developing assistive technologies for elderly people and young children. However, very little research addresses teen-stress, or teen-robot interaction. Thus, my research in Project EMAR (Ecological Momentary Assessment Robot) entails generating therapeutic activities for teens in a social robot focusing specifically on Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Making EMAR interact with teens on an intimate level to collect stress-data, I conduct user-participatory sessions with teens for analyzing/formalizing ACT/DBT activities and measure their effectiveness. After collecting stress data from teens, I train robust algorithmic models over standard inputs, and predict/classify given data to generate effective counseling/therapeutic activities, or suggestions.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I always loved reading books because of the independence it gave me to draw imaginary scenarios in my mind with the story narratives and I liked computers. When I was casually talking about it to one of my collegiate mentors after getting into Computer Science (CS) major in my sophomore year, she asked me, “Have you thought about doing research? You definitely should!” That’s when I started to seriously think about pursuing undergraduate research. I started cold-emailing faculty and landed in a research opportunity with the UW Natural Language Processing (NLP) group. After six months of apprenticeship there under a PhD student, I decided to pursue a more independent research endeavor. I realized that research excites me, because I can practically connect with higher level CS ideas in self-directed exploration of investigative questions through research. I communicated my interests to Dr. Maya Cakmak, who was teaching our robotics capstone in the Spring of my junior year. And, luckily, she offered me a project where I’d be able to do highly independent research – make methodological decisions, conduct technical experiments and analysis while optimizing for the real-world. That’s exactly what I’m researching now – implementation of human-interactive capabilities in a social robot to generate therapeutic activities for adolescents. My research allows me to do what I love most – imagining a better future with the power of computing and creating cutting-edge technologies by using my optimistic imagination. In the future, I aspire to pursue a PhD in CS to extend my research interests.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
Coming to UW as a freshman with no prior CS background or no prior familiarity with UW or Seattle, what has been mostly helpful for me is to reach out to different people – be it peers, advisors, TAs, or faculty, and ask questions about the things I’m interested in pursuing. Personally, I think being aware and frank about the fact that I don’t necessarily know everything, that’s why I need to reach out to others and ask for help, really pushed me forward to make new connections and relationships that helped me to do well in courses, get into my intended major, find and pursue research, mentoring, and teaching opportunities as an undergraduate. So, my advice for other students would be to pursue things that are interesting to you, even if you’re not entirely sure about everything that goes into that, reach out and ask for help from others. It will eventually help you to navigate this huge UW campus, and make it feel smaller for you with all the strong connections you’ll have made along the way.
Major: Molecular, Cellular, Developmental Biology
Mentor: Ellen Schur, UW Medicine
Contact: sk7716@uw.edu
Current research project: Hypothalamic Gliosis and Change in Body Adiposity in Children with Obesity
Sarah is a senior, graduating in Spring 2021 with a degree in Molecular, Cellular, Developmental Biology and a minor in Chemistry at the University of Washington. She is currently working in the Schur Lab to uncover different connections to further the understanding of hypothalamic gliosis and its correlation with human adiposity and obesity. Sarah aspires to continue in clinical research where its impact can reach the community and the global levels.
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
Hypothalamic gliosis is an inflammatory response that occurs on the hypothalamus, a structure in the brain. Recent research has shown that this is a key component for diet-induced obesity in rodents. With more research into connections between gliosis and body adiposity, we are emphasizing the neurobiological basis of obesity. These potential insights can inform targeted diet-
related treatments and further our understanding of obesity pathogenesis.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
In my second year of college, I got involved with my current research lab and project through the research portal. I chose to find research that explored more than what I learned in classrooms. My mind is always moving forward and that’s the same rush and adrenaline that working in research has as well. I love being engaged in upcoming projects and asking questions of my own to formulate my project as well.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
Choose research that genuinely interests you, even if it’s not within your chosen field of study! You will find that many topics are interdisciplinary and lead you to more connections in your work.
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.
Major: Biochemistry
Minor: Applied Mathematics
Mentor: Neil King, Biochemistry; Karla-Luise Herpoldt, Biochemistry
Contact: gmk6@uw.edu
Current research project:Optimizing in vitro Assembly of a Self-Assembling Protein Cage for Vaccine Design
Gargi is a Junior majoring in Biochemistry and minoring in Applied Math. She has been working in the King Lab since January 2018, where she is working on recovering the solubility of a nanoparticle component. In her free time, she loves to spend time with friends and go hiking.
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
My project involves finding the optimal expression and purification conditions for one of the subunits of a self-assembling protein cage. This cage has the correct geometry to display particular antigens, making it a desired vaccine candidate. By successfully increasing the solubility of this subunit and thus stabilizing the cage, it’ll be able to be used towards vaccine design.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I got involved in undergraduate research during winter quarter of my freshman year. I was interested in working in research because of how it involves solving problems in areas that you are passionate about. I came across the King Lab when looking through faculty pages on the Biochemistry website and was intrigued by the work they described. I asked my lab’s PI, Dr. King, if I could join as an undergraduate researcher, and eventually began working on this project!
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
It’s never too early (or too late!) to begin research. If you find something you’re interested in, go for it. It may seem scary at first, but you never know what new skills you will learn and how they will help you grow.
Majors: Law, Societies, and Justice; Sociology; Accounting
Mentor: Tony Lucero, International Studies/Latin American and Caribbean Studies
Contact: minsukim@uw.edu
Current research project: Human Rights in Latin America
Min Su is a senior 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. For the 2020 Undergraduate Research Symposium, this ongoing group uncovered how contemporary immigration enforcement restricts, skews, and misrepresents information regarding immigration.
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
Immigration issues have become prominent within today’s media, but there are several gaps in the types of information that the media has shared. Based on this observation, we began to wonder why it was so difficult to find reliable information on immigration detention and deportation and why the federal government has refused to comply with requests for information. Through interviews with subject experts and federal representatives, my research group developed a video that outlined how and why information about immigration has been restricted, which helps us to better understand how immigration and the importance of transparency about such important topics fit into the media landscape.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I first got involved in undergraduate research during the 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.
Major: Public-Global Health
Mentor: Suchi Chandrasekaran, OBGYN UW medicine / Pamela Collins, UW DGH Global Mental Health
Contact: nehak3@uw.edu
Current research project: Assessing Barriers to Mental Health Resources in the United States for immigrants
Neha Krishnam is an upcoming senior at the UW, studying Public-Global Health and Writing. She is especially passionate about global health equity and is involved in various research projects in regards to global health. Neha is an aspiring physician and is committed to advocating for equitable, accessible, and affordable medical care for low income, vulnerable populations. Outside of school, Neha enjoys baking, basketball, and travelling.
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
The research I do is a qualitative project that studies various barriers to accessing mental health resources for immigrants. I personally am involved in reading and coding interviews, and helping write manuscripts.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I got involved in research my fall quarter of my freshman year. At first, I definitely got involved because it was a “highly looked upon activity” for grad schools. I later fell in love with research and found my passion projects. I got involved by simply cold emailing people and labs that I found interesting and from there, was able to meet up in person with my PI’s and talk through additional details.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
100% do it! Research is a great way to find your niche and what you are passionate about. UW is a wonderful place to get involved as it is a huge research institution with leaders in many fields doing great things. I highly recommend getting involved and also don’t be afraid to navigate through different positions to find the project you love the most!
Major: Biology (Physiology)
Mentor: Jennifer Doherty, Biology
Contact: jkkuma@uw.edu
Current research project: Learning Progressions on the Development of Principle-based Reasoning in Undergraduate Physiology (LeaP UP)
I am a senior studying physiology and global health. I am particularly interested in furthering health equity across the globe and hope to contribute to this cause in the future. One of my favorite activities is exploring new cafes and coffee shops!
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
I work in an education research lab that focuses on improving how students’ understanding of physiology content is evaluated. We do this in the hopes of improving physiology curriculum by better informing instructors of what their students are learning. My project focuses on discovering inequities in the computer program our lab uses to assist with evaluating student responses.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I began researching with LeaP UP in the winter of my sophomore year. When I first entered UW, I had no interest in research. I thought research only meant white lab coats, chemicals, and little human interaction. During my time at UW, I met many people with many amazing and diverse research backgrounds. I became interested and was provided the opportunity to research in education, a field I never knew existed. I am now conducting work towards a cause I truly care about and feel incredibly blessed to have this opportunity.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
Just as UW hosts a huge diversity of students, so too does the research field provide a huge diversity of projects, roles, and opportunities. If you are interested in research, there is a role for you to play! You belong in research!
Major: Physics: Comprehensive, Mathematics
Mentor: Department of Physics: Prof. Samu Taulu
Contact: leinikou@gmail.com
Current research project: Frequency-dependent Calibration of MEG Signals
Nikou is a senior studying in physics and mathematics at the University of Washington. She has been involved in a condensed matter research project that utilized the quasi-elastic neutron scattering spectroscopy to detect possible translational diffusion of protons of newberyite. Since September of 2019, she has been working with Prof. Taulu at the Institution of Learning and Brain Sciences at UW. Her research focuses on a novel brain imaging modality, magnetoencephalography (MEG). Her work includes MEG data analysis and calibration. She aspires to continue to study in physics and integrate her knowledge to the medical field in the future. In her free time, Nikou enjoys reading, writing, and traveling.
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
The MEG device provides exquisitely accurate measurements of brain activities. These measurements are aimed to assist neurosurgeons in surgical planning. On the other hand, the neuromagnetic signal is around a billionth of the strength of the earth’s magnetic field. Therefore, a deliberate signal processing system is essential. One of my projects is designed to compensate for frequency-dependent noise resulting from the artifacts from the MEG sensors (ideally, the measured brain signals are independent from frequency). The other project that I was involved in was to compare different methods of source current distribution reconstruction.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I started my undergraduate research in the summer between my sophomore and junior year. The instructor of my physics class sent out an announcement of hiring undergraduate research assistants. That’s how I began my research journey. I got to know my current mentor in a physics seminar (PHYS294) which was designed to introduce students to some of the research groups in the physics department.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
I was not an outgoing student. It took me great courage to ask my professors for an opportunity. When I was a freshman and taking the introductory level physics classes, I always doubted myself if I could contribute anything to a research group. So if you have the same feeling now, you are not the only one… The most important thing is to take the first step: talk to your professors. They are here because they love interacting with students and they are usually very nice people. Don’t worry, take your time!
Please feel free to email me if you have any questions!
Major: Computer Science
Mentor: Shwetak Patel, Computer Science; Noah Smith, Computer Science
Contact: limill01@uw.edu
Current research project: Multimodal Monitoring for Silent Speech Recognition; Debiasing Summarizations for Clinical Documents and Notes
Millicent is a senior studying computer science at the University of Washington. She was born in Wichita, Kansas, but attended both high school and now college in Washington. She is interested in the application of computer science to health, focusing on building tools and systems and creating algorithms to improve accessibility to healthcare. In her free time, she enjoys gaming, hanging out with friends, hiking, and traveling.
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
Speech is an incredibly useful modality for in-person conversation with others. However, speech can become limited for those with disabilities who are unable to speak, when privacy is necessary, or if ambient noise exists in the background. For my work, I’m creating a silent speech interface that can be used to create speech but does not require actual muscle movement, only fueled by intention. Current methods use a variety of signals including EEG and MEG. However, these signals are prone to large quantities of noise from movement and electrical interference. My work focuses on multimodal sensing using EEG and fNIRS, which has yet to be employed for work on silent speech interfaces. The end goal is to create a robust wearable that can be used in-the-wild for individuals who could use a tool such as this for speech. My other project focuses on developing methods to debias clinical notes and documents. Bias in the medical world can be caused by implicit racial/ethnical bias that can affect treatments for individuals. There has been some research on how we can take text from these documents and to screen them for bias, but my work concerns mostly the act of whether summaries from clinical notes and documents in themselves are biased and how can we create natural language models that remove these biases so that future treatments will not perpetuate these biases.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I actually first got involved in undergraduate research in high school (so really, high school research), by applying to a program in one of my labs (Ubiquitous Computing Lab) where I still do research. I was interested in figuring out what research was and what computer science research really entailed. I’ve gone through several mentors within the lab, but each time, have had an incredible experience getting to know everyone, from undergraduate to PhD students.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
Always reach out to professors and graduate students if you can! Everyone will be excited to talk to you about research since it’s such an amazing activity to take part in. Although I did get lucky to have a lab that I could come back to starting my undergraduate, I definitely wish I had spent more time reaching out earlier in my college years so I could explore more areas of research outside of my comfort zone. Luckily, I’ve found that focus on health is really my end goal, so it worked out for me. Also, never fear rejection from a lab. I’ve been rejected several times from research that I’ve really wanted, but it’s all part of the process. It might not feel good for a few days, but you’ll learn and be a stronger individual after rejection.
Major: Computer science, informatics
Mentor: Amy Ko, Informatics
Contact: jliang9@uw.edu
Current research project: Explicit Programming Strategies
Jenny is a Computer Science and Informatics student at the University of Washington. She has had previous experience in studying and building novel community-maintained LTE networks for rural communities in Indonesia and Mexico. She currently works to study bias in toxic language detectors in natural language processing and why this bias appears in these models. She also researches designing a knowledge sharing platform to teach novice programmers new skills by following strategies written and used by expert software developers for programming tasks, which are known as explicit programming strategies Explicit Programming Strategies
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
The goal in studying how and why bias might manifest in toxic language detectors is to learn whether better input data to toxic language detectors reduces bias against specific demographics of people. Meanwhile, the goal in studying the effects of a novel explicit programming strategies knowledge sharing platform is to make programming easier to learn for novices by teaching them skills that take experts years to learn. We hope that this will help them to be more self-confident in their programming skills, and ultimately better programmers in the long-term.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I got involved in undergraduate research my senior year after bumping into my first research mentor in the halls in the computer science building. I had always been curious as to what research was in computer science, as my experience had mostly been in software engineering in the tech industry, and was intrigued by how the line of research I was doing was technology for social good.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
Don’t be afraid to reach out to professors and make a connection whether it’s cold emails, office hours, or even just seeing them around your department. You might have to try a couple of times to find a professor or lab that’s a good fit, but networking can really help!
Major: Neuroscience
Mentor: Matt Kaeberlein & Jason Pitt, Department of Pathology; Cory Kelly, Department of Neurological Surgery
Contact: kml0926@uw.edu
Current research project: Large-Scale Screening of Genes that Affect Hypoxic Rescue of Frataxin Deficiency and ISC Biogenesis in Yeast
Jason is a senior, studying neuroscience. He works in both basic and translational research at two labs. He recently started working on “Large-scale screening of genes that affect hypoxic rescue of frataxin deficiency and ISC biogenesis in yeast” at the Kaeberleing Lab. At Stroke and Applied NeuroScience (SANS) Center, he will continue to study the molecular basis of pathophysiology of intracranial aneurysm formation.
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
Both of my research projects are clinically relevant. At the Kaeberlein Lab, I am trying to find molecular mechanisms that can help us better understand Friedreich’s ataxia. At the SANS Center, he is working towards understanding how aneurysms form at the cellular level.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I started my first college-level research in social sciences in high school to mainly find ways to advocate for underprivileged populations. As my interests shifted to STEM, I naturally picked up STEM related research.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
Do not be afraid of failures and voicing your ideas.
Major: Neuroscience, Philosophy
Mentor: Ryan Farero, Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences
Contact: mcalejac@uw.edu
Current research project: The Effects of the Kappa Opioid System on Dopamine in Cocaine Addiction in Rats
Jacqueline is a junior majoring in Neuroscience and Philosophy at the University of Washington. She is interested in behavioral neuroscience, ethics, and the intersection of the two. Jacqueline is currently doing research in a neuroscience lab studying addiction in rats, and she advocates for better mental health/recovery resources for people struggling with addiction.
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
Addiction is a huge and devastating problem in the United States. Our research aims to better understand the biology of addiction, so that we can prevent drug escalation (increased intake over time) for more manageable effects.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I had the privilege of growing up in a college town, so when I was in high school I sent out some emails to professors asking if I could volunteer in their labs. I got one volunteer position and then another volunteer position that turned into a paid position within a year. In college, I waited until my first year was over before I started reaching out to people for research. I used the URP database and found research projects that sounded interesting, then sent a few emails out, and one of few who responded to me is now my mentor!
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
It’s okay to not know everything right away. It’s okay to be overwhelmed. It’s okay to get rejected multiple times. It’s okay to not know exactly what you want to do yet! We’re all learning, and it’s great that you’re even considering the possibilities.
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: B.S. Biochemistry; B.S. Biology (Molecular, Cellular & Developmental)
Mentor: Dr. Ray Monnat and Weiliang Tang; Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology
Contact: hipwin@uw.edu
Current research project: Fanconi Anemia Head and Neck Cancer Cell Line Resource
Tai is a senior at the University of Washington studying biochemistry and molecular, cellular & developmental biology. He has been conducting research in Dr. Ray Monnat’s lab since spring 2018, where he has worked to establish human disease models for translational research. His research interests include cancer biology, cancer metabolism and genomics. When he’s not doing research, Tai enjoys hiking and bouldering.
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
Fanconi Anemia (FA) is a rare, genetic disease characterized by bone marrow failure and cancer predisposition, particularly head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). These patients have a 500-1000-fold higher risk of developing this disease in their lifetime compared to the general population. The origins of these cancers are not well understood and current treatment options are limited. My research is focused on generating a cell line resource that would facilitate translational research on FA-derived HNSCC.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I got involved with undergraduate research towards the end of my freshman year at UW. I had always been fascinated about science and medicine and wanted to explore what biomedical research had to offer. I reached out to Dr. Monnat expressing my interest after exploring his lab website and the rest was history.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
If you find a lab that is conducting research that aligns with your interest, don’t be afraid to reach out! There isn’t a right time to get involved in research, so don’t feel intimidated. The mentors in the lab are understanding and there to support your growth as a scientist and student. As long as you approach your research experience with an open mind, enthusiasm and a willingness to learn, it will be rewarding!
Major: Biochemistry
Mentor: Shane Rea (Pathology); David Baker (Biochemistry), Nathan Ennist (Postdoc)
Contact: novyn@uw.edu
Current research project: Development of a Photo-regulatable Longevity Kinase; Rosetta Based Design of Chlorophyll-binding Proteins for Artificial Photosynthesis
Nate is a rising senior in Biochemistry at the University of Washington. Nate has worked at the Rea lab for the past two years, attempting to elucidate the mechanism of a C. elegans mitochondrial retrograde response pathway by engineering the pathway to include light-sensitive variants of the involved proteins. He also recently started working at the Baker lab with postdoctoral researcher Nathan Ennist. In the Baker lab, he uses Rosetta protein design software to develop chlorophyll-binding proteins with various artificial photosynthesis applications.
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
I am attempting to re-engineer a natural C. elegans pathway associated with lifespan regulation to gain a comprehensive understanding of the pathway and its significance in aging. I am also working on a separate project where I design and improve chlorophyll-binding proteins for artificial photosynthesis.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I started volunteering at the Shane Rea research group during my first quarter at UW after a friend from a chemistry class who worked in the Rea lab suggested that I apply. I initially hoped that this would complement my coursework but soon found that my coursework supplemented the knowledge and skills I obtained through research. I later decided to join the Baker lab and work with Nathan Ennist after I had narrowed my research interests and became intrigued by protein design.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
Look at what the professors in your department are researching and reach out to professors whose research interests you even a little. Your research interests will likely change over time, but you will gain far more skills than you anticipate by working in any research environment, so try to get involved as soon as you can. Don’t hesitate to reach out to myself or another Undergraduate Research Leader if you have any questions!
Major: Neuroscience
Mentor: Michael Bruchas, Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine
Contact: oswelc@uw.edu
Current research project: Biased Signaling in a Dorsal Raphe to Nucleus Accumbens Circuit that Drives Motivated Behaviors
Corinna is a senior at the University of Washington studying neuroscience. Since 2019, she has been working in the Bruchas lab studying the mechanisms of opioid addiction in animal models. She has recently begun a project examining how a particular circuit contributes to differential effects of opioids including pain analgesia. In her free time she enjoys eating her way around Seattle and managing her fantasy football team.
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
I study opioid addiction in the context of circuits, meaning neural pathways that ultimately lead to a behavior. This means we are tracking the mechanisms of neural signals between different brain areas.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I got involved in research at the end of my freshman year because I knew that I wanted to study addiction and contribute to developing treatments. I used the URP database to find labs that interested me and I emailed them, and I got lucky to find a lab that is such a good fit.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
Patience! Research takes time, and that includes finding research that you enjoy doing. There will inevitably be many frustrations, but that is expected considering you’re trying to figure out something that no one knows.
Major: Public Health
Mentor: Elaheh Karbassi, Department of Pathology
Contact: padger@uw.edu
Current research project: Investigating the Role of PGC1B in Stem Cell-Derived Cardiomyocyte Maturation Using a CRISPR Activation System
Ruby is a senior majoring in Public Health at the University of Washington. She is interested in combining public health work with science and medicine to develop better prevention strategies and potential therapeutics that are affordable (or free) and accessible to all people, especially underserved and vulnerable populations. She is passionate about making the transition to college less daunting for fellow students through tutoring and being a mentor. Now, she is looking forward to having a role in increasing access to undergraduate research opportunities as an Undergraduate Research Leader.
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
A major part of my research project is taking human pluripotent stem cells (which can become any cell in the body) and making them into cardiomyocytes (hPSC-CMs) through a process called differentiation. A limitation of these cells is that they are immature, meaning they differ structurally and metabolically from adult cells. This limits the ability to use these cardiomyocytes for cell transplantation purposes that would help repair the heart after someone has had a heart attack. My lab has identified certain genes that more mature cardiomyocytes have. I have helped generate a stem cell line with a CRISPR activation (CRISPRa) system to upregulate these genes after the addition of guide RNAs (gRNAs) and am currently working on characterizing the expression and activity of the CRISPRa in hPSC-CMs. My project goal is to use the CRISPRa system to activate transcription for the PPARG coactivator 1 beta (PGC1B) gene, one of the genes associated with maturation. PGC1B is a master regulator of mitochondrial biogenesis, which is a process that increases in maturing cardiomyocytes. I hypothesize that activated transcription for PGC1B will enhance maturation of hPSC-CMs by causing mitochondrial biogenesis to occur in the cardiomyocytes.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I became involved in undergraduate research first in a program called Teach Lab through the Health Sciences Center Minority Students Program the summer after my freshman year. This gave me an amazing opportunity to learn common laboratory techniques, work alongside mentors, and improve my presentation skills. My sophomore year, I joined the Murry Lab. I was interested in this lab because the scientists there worked with beating heart cells in a dish, and I knew that was something I wanted to learn more about/be involved with. Coming into college, I wanted to explore what doing research in science could look like, so I started looking for opportunities as soon as I had adjusted to taking classes and felt like I could handle the commitment.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
It is normal to send many emails to labs and follow up if you don’t get a response the first time, just be persistent and patient. Always advocate for yourself and know that you are deserving of mentorship and research opportunities, and if your lab doesn’t give you that right away, don’t be afraid of asking, and switch labs if they are unwilling to do that for you. You can have many interests and your research doesn’t have to be associated with your major, pursue what you are interested in even if people question you. Most importantly, there is a spot for you in research and you should try it out because it is so worth it and also teaches you a lot about life.
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 junior in MCD Biology. She is very interested in the many ways cancers mutate and adapt, especially following currently available treatments. She works at Plymate lab where she explores prostate cancer cells’ responses to drug therapies. In her free time, Haley enjoys baking and longboarding.
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
Advanced prostate cancer can give rise to lethal castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC), which is associated with decreased quality of life and survival, so new treatment options are essential to fill this gap in clinical need. A group of chemicals called bumped kinase inhibitors (BKIs) have been shown to be capable of suppressing growth of cellular models of CRPC. I am exploring whether BKIs mainly act through the AMPK cellular metabolism pathway to determine the BKIs’ mechanism of action, which is part of a larger project to investigate these chemicals as a novel therapy for patients with CRPC.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
When I was in Bellevue College, I took part in a research project that introduced research to community college students in the introductory biology series. I really enjoyed the investigative techniques, and wanted to continue exploring biology at UW. I wanted to work on helping solve a real world problem and help others, so research was a good fit for me. I found my lab through the URP’s research database and contacted them inquiring about openings in their lab. Sure enough, they had a spot for me so I started in the spring of my first year at UW.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
You will never feel ready to start research, because there are things you learn from the lab that even your lab classes can’t teach you. Apply and apply broadly! Sometimes it’s the luck of the draw when it comes to finding opportunities, so don’t be discouraged if your first 5+ emails/applications don’t get you accepted, just keep going and be ready to learn a lot.
Major: Biology: Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental
Mentor: Dr. Manda Patel PhD (True Binding, Inc.)
Contact: spatel97@uw.edu
Current research project: Anti-galectin3 Antibodies and Cardio-Renal Fibrosis
Shreya is a third year in the Biology department at the University of Washington. From January 2019 to January 2020, she worked at Seattle Children’s Research Institute investigating protein pathways in the brain that contribute to autism-associated behaviors. She then moved to the private sector where she is currently participating in a research intensive internship at TrueBinding, Inc. She performs in vitro work to study the efficacy of antibodies in halting and reversing the progression of cardio-renal fibrosis. She is interested in using her research background to pursue a career in a healthcare field that will allow her to apply genetic solutions to modern problems. As for her personal interests, she likes to bake cookies, take photos, and she is very fond of her plant baby Cole!
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
My current work is important in making progress in potentially halting and reversing the progression of fibrosis in the heart and kidneys.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I first got involved at Seattle Children’s Research Institute during the winter quarter of my first-year because I wanted to explore a research career and get hands-on experience applying concepts I was learning in my classes. Later, I joined a biopharmaceutical company to conduct research because I wanted to experience a different side of research and continue to develop my wet lab skills.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
Follow up on any emails you send to faculty asking about research positions! Your email is likely to get buried so it is really important to follow up and remind them that you are still interested in collaborating with their lab.
Major: Biology (Molecular, Cellular & Developmental)
Mentor: Elizabeth Rhea, Medicine
Contact: pembes@uw.edu
Current research project: Regulation of Insulin Endocytosis and Transcytosis at the Blood-Brain Barrier
Sarah is a senior 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 uptake 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 capillaries into the brain. My research mentor and I are exploring how insulin gets into and across the BBB, specifically what protein regulates uptake of insulin and its receptor. Insulin has been shown to play an important role in cognition. However, Alzheimer’s patients exhibit decreased insulin signaling and sensitivity in the brain. 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 was eager 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 BBB. It has been the most rewarding experience I’ve had in college by far.
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 only rejections in response. In fact, the first time I reached out to my current lab, they turned me down! My path to finding a research position definitely wasn’t what I expected it to be, but I got there eventually. With persistence (and maybe a little help from URP), you will too!
Major: Materials Science and Engineering
Mentor: Dr. Kathleen Kieran, Urology
Contact: gpereira@uw.edu
Current research project: A Study on the Effects of Covid-19 on Pharmacies in Washington
Gillian is a Junior in Materials Science and Engineering at the University of Washington. She is interested in the intersection of engineering and the medical field. She is passionate about learning about and eliminating health care disparities all over the world, but is starting with those in Washington with her current research projects.
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
My project studies how pharmacies all over Washington were affected by the Coronavirus.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I decided that I wanted to get involved in research at the end of my freshman year. I wrote a cover letter and resume and emailed two professors. I interviewed with both of them, but couldn’t decide which lab would be a better fit for me. One of the professors who I talked with gave me the contact info of a student who she had worked with a few years ago that I could talk to about his experience, before making my decision. He was also an engineering student interested in the medical field. Talking to him ultimately convinced me to go into research with his mentor. It was really helpful talking to an alum from her lab because he was able to explain to me how doing research with her enriched his specific educational experience. He explained to me that he really enjoyed doing research on healthcare disparities (despite it not involving any hands on engineering experience) because these topics are really important to learn about, but generally aren’t covered by engineering curriculum. He found that doing research not necessary inside the scope of his major helped him grow into a more well-rounded individual, and I wanted to experience a similar growth, which ultimately led me to my decision to do research with my current PI.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
Don’t be afraid to start cold emailing! Make sure you have your resume and cover letter ready and then start emailing them to professors that you are interested in doing research with. You might not always get a response, but that is perfectly normal. All it takes is one reply to get your foot in the door!
Also, don’t be afraid to reach out to current undergraduates or alum from the lab you are interested in. Taking to someone who has done research there can give you a look into what kinds of tasks you might be doing, and if this particular lab will be a good fit for you.
Major: Bioengineering
Mentor: Rachel Creighton, Bioengineering
Contact: joliep@uw.edu
Current research project: In Situ 3D Nanofiber Patterning Using Composite Materials
Gillian is a Junior in Materials Science and Engineering at the University of Washington. She is interested in the intersection of engineering and the medical field. She is passionate about learning about and eliminating health care disparities all over the world, but is starting with those in Washington with her current research projects.
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
My project studies how pharmacies all over Washington were affected by the Coronavirus.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I decided that I wanted to get involved in research at the end of my freshman year. I wrote a cover letter and resume and emailed two professors. I interviewed with both of them, but couldn’t decide which lab would be a better fit for me. One of the professors who I talked with gave me the contact info of a student who she had worked with a few years ago that I could talk to about his experience, before making my decision. He was also an engineering student interested in the medical field. Talking to him ultimately convinced me to go into research with his mentor. It was really helpful talking to an alum from her lab because he was able to explain to me how doing research with her enriched his specific educational experience. He explained to me that he really enjoyed doing research on healthcare disparities (despite it not involving any hands on engineering experience) because these topics are really important to learn about, but generally aren’t covered by engineering curriculum. He found that doing research not necessary inside the scope of his major helped him grow into a more well-rounded individual, and I wanted to experience a similar growth, which ultimately led me to my decision to do research with my current PI.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
Don’t be afraid to start cold emailing! Make sure you have your resume and cover letter ready and then start emailing them to professors that you are interested in doing research with. You might not always get a response, but that is perfectly normal. All it takes is one reply to get your foot in the door!
Also, don’t be afraid to reach out to current undergraduates or alum from the lab you are interested in. Taking to someone who has done research there can give you a look into what kinds of tasks you might be doing, and if this particular lab will be a good fit for you.
Major: Neuroscience
Mentor: Monica Vavilala ( Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Pediatrics), Nancy Temkin (Neurological Surgery, Biostatistics, Rehabilitation Medicine)
Contact: erikbp@uw.edu
Current research project: Symptoms and Accommodations during Return to Learn Care Plan Utilization after Concussion
Erik is a graduating senior with a degree in Neuroscience at the University of Washington. He is interested in increasing our understanding of the long-term effects of traumatic brain injuries on teenagers so that we are able to create effective interventions that will minimize the burden of experiencing such an injury. He is currently working on a project that is studying the symptoms experienced by high school students after a traumatic brain injury, and the adjustment their schools are making for them during their return to learning. During his time at the UW, he has also worked on projects investigating legal guardianship after traumatic brain injury, and quality of life outcomes in high school students after traumatic brain injury. After graduating from the UW, Erik hopes to enroll in a MD/PhD program.
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When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
Erik became involved in research during his senior year of high school when he did an internship at the Harborview Injury Prevention and Research Center (HIPRC), working with professors studying the effects of traumatic brain injuries. During this internship, he realized that he enjoyed pushing the boundaries of human knowledge and fell in love with the research process. When he began his freshman year at the UW, he began a more active role in several research groups associated with HIPRC. After learning the ropes during his freshman year, he became a student member of HIPRC and began working on his own research projects under several mentors’ guidance.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
Do not be afraid to fail. Failure is a natural part of the research process and is a mechanism by which we can learn a lot about ourselves and the world around us. Research has the potential to be the highlight of one’s undergraduate experience.
Major: Astronomy & Physics: Comprehensive
Mentor: Iryna Butsky
Contact: piacid4@uw.edu
Current research project: Synthetic Spectroscopy and Cosmic Rays
I’m a third-year studying Astronomy and Physics. My passion for space started young and while it was constant it was not very developed until I started at the University of Washington. I began my Freshman Fall quarter by taking a pre-astronomy major seminar (Pre-MAP) which paired me with my mentor, Iryna Butsky. We began researching simulated Jellyfish galaxies and from there my love for space and, more specifically, extragalactic astronomy flourished. I have continued research with Iryna for 2 years now and in doing so I have narrowed my intended research focus to surveying the Circumgalactic Medium (CGM) and the Cosmic Baryon Cycle using cosmological simulations. Beyond space, I love baking and hiking.
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The CGM represents a large diffuse cloud of gas that flows out and back into a galaxy. Currently, the CGM is poorly misunderstood, and learning more about it can give us insight into galactic evolution. Since the CGM is diffuse it can be difficult to study with telescopes and other observational equipment so using simulations is how astronomers can test theories–the bulk of my research is looking at simulations and making sure they make physical sense so that we can learn more!
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
The Pre-MAP program in the Fall quarter of my Freshman year. I got involved because I had an interest in Astronomy and I thought that this would be the best way to see if I truly wanted to go into a career in this field.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
Be proactive! Look into your major if they have any programs like the Astronomy Department has. Email professors or talk to advisors to see if they can point you in the right direction.
Major: Biochemistry; CHID
Mentor: Sharona Gordon, Dept. Physiology & Biophysics; Dr. Dale Langford, Dept. Anesthesiology & Pain Medicine
Contact: mraza99@uw.edu
Current research project: Visualizing Protein Conformational Dynamics Using Unnatural Amino Acids and FRET
Marium Raza is a graduating senior with degrees in Biochemistry and Comparative History of Ideas. Her personal experiences with rheumatoid arthritis motivated her to study the pain she so often felt growing up. So, as a freshman she started working in the Gordon lab, studying the polymodal pain receptor TRPV1. Marium has also been involved in a project with Dr. Langford to better understand women’s pain after breast cancer surgery. Outside of her research, Marium is passionate about innovating and advocating to support the health needs of uninsured communities. She aspires to continue doing so in the future, as a physician.
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What happens if you bite into a spicy habanero pepper? If you touch your skin after a sunburn? If you’re anything like me – you say ouch! Scientifically, the pain you experience due to a number of factors (including heat, inflammation, capsaicin, and toxins) is mediated by a pain receptor in your peripheral nervous system called TRPV1. These receptors are ion channels that open and close. My lab hopes to better understand the structure and movements of this protein. My current project is investigating how we can develop a new system, using the unnatural amino acid Acd, to study how proteins change shape in different conditions. Our hope is that with a better understanding of TRPV1’s structural movements, we can help develop new pain medication that is more effective, with fewer side effects.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I got involved in research in the winter of my freshman year, by finding a posting for the Gordon lab (where I still work) on the URP database that I was really interested in. Since then, I’ve learned that research can look like many different things. I got involved in clinical research through the Scan Design Innovations in Pain Research program the summer after my sophomore year. I worked on archival research through the Svoboda project during my junior year. Why I got involved in these different projects comes down to something simple: I thought they were cool. I had questions about pain, about disease, and about medicine. Research was a way to begin answering my questions, while also generating many more.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
I highly encourage all students at UW, regardless of their discipline, to get involved in undergraduate research! My advice would be to remain persistent – you might get lucky and find a great research position after your first shot, but you might not. Keep searching, and keep emailing. And then remain persistent when you get there, especially when your project hits its inevitable speedbumps.
Major: Computer Science
Mentor: Amarda Shehu, Department of Computer Science
Contact: sharm1@uw.edu
Current research project: Systematic Study of Different Design Decisions in Markov Model-based Analysis of Molecular Structure Data
Sharmila is an undergraduate student studying Computer Science at the University of Washington. She is interested in using computer science to help give meaning to data from several different fields such as finance, physics, and biology. In addition to her research, she has worked at multiple corporations in the technology industry. In her free time, she enjoys dancing/choreographing, solving puzzles, writing, and trying new foods.
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My work involves studying the movement of the protein Met-enkephalin, a naturally occurring opioid peptide. By using mathematical techniques to identify which states the protein spends the majority of its time in, we can better understand which molecules the protein can bind with in order to deliver novel and refined pharmaceutical drugs.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I wanted to be involved in undergraduate research in order to gain a deeper understanding about my field and have the opportunity to contribute to the scientific community. In addition to the technical knowledge, I wanted to have a chance to see how the research process works.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
Go for it! Deciding to pursue research was one of the most impactful decisions I have ever made, and the lessons I have learned extend far beyond the lab. Being a researcher, I can question any information I see, and understand it on a deeper level by learning about the process used to attain that information. No matter the field, research changes the way you learn for the better.
Major: Intended Physiology/ Psychology
Mentor: Kendan Jones-Isaac , Department of Pharmaceutics
Contact: mvr25@uw.edu
Current research project: Development of a Urinary Biomarker Assay for Measuring Acute Oxidative Stress
Micaela is a first generation student. She is a Junior intended to double major in Physiology and Psychology at the University of Washington. She was raised in Eastern Washington in the city of Yakima. Currently she has been conducting research in the Ed Kelly Lab in the Department of Pharmaceutics for the past 2.5 years. She has examined Polymyxin antibiotic toxicity towards kidney cells and is currently examining a biomarker for oxidative stress. She hopes that her next project will be examining pesticide exposure and toxicity, including neurotoxins that may induce Alzheimer’s in immigrant farm workers.
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
Aging related diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and hypertension amongst others continue to impact the aging population. Oxidative stress and reactive oxygen species disrupt the basic building blocks of biology. They are natural byproducts of cell function and are increased from smoking, diet, alcohol, or exposure to pollution, chemicals, radiation, even sunlight. In our lab we focus on studying kidney physiology by using microphysiological devices, which we call chips. The benefit of these chips is that they allow us to better replicate the physiologic condition of a cell’s native environment. This allows us to study disease states, drug response, and replicate environmental toxins. Recently I have participated in the project to use these chips to evaluate 8-oxo-gsn as a biomarker of acute oxidative stress and disease. Finding these biomarkers for oxidative stress can help with indicating age associated diseases early on and help with early intervention treatments.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I got involved in research the summer of 2018 going into my freshman year. I was granted the opportunity through the UW ALVA GenOM project which is a program that targets underrepresented students which allows us to receive valuable research experience in an academic setting, and learn about the impact of genomic studies in the field of science and society.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
Do not overwork yourself, mentors and PI’s were once students too and know that your school work and mental health are more of a priority compared to research.
Major: Microbiology (B.S.), Biochemistry (B.A.)
Mentor: Pierre Mourad, Neurological Surgery; Engineering and Mathematics at UW Bothell
Contact: asahota@uw.edu
Current research project: Applying Intense Focused Ultrasound to Clear Intraventricular Catheters in the Context of Hydrocephalus in Pediatric Patients
Annika is a student studying Microbiology (B.S.), Biochemistry (B.A.), as well as Computational Neuroscience through an undergraduate certification along with completing minors in human rights and neural engineering. She is interested in using ultrasound to address global health issues, particularly those concerning maternal and child care. Additionally, she also strongly believes that in order to address any global healthcare concern we must also take the time to understand cultural and socioeconomic factors that may lead to health disparities.
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My research primarily revolves around the use of ultrasound technology to address neurological complications. In the past, I worked on a project in which we used ultrasound to activate microglia. This mechanism was particularly useful as it allowed us to combat the accumulation of amyloid beta which has been shown to have a correlation to Alzheimer’s disease. Microglia was the ideal target as they are the main macrophage cells in the brain– meaning they play an important role in triggering an immune response. By focusing ultrasound on the microglia, it allowed us to activate its response and essentially ‘encourage’ it to attack the amyloid beta. A few of the projects I am working on currently are: 1) using ultrasound to stimulate nerves in upper and lower extremities in order to gain a greater understanding of nerve stimulation threshold to improve communication with prosthetic limbs in amputee patients 2) the use of focused ultrasound pulses to unclog intraventricular catheters from a transcranial position 3) use of a smartphone application to determine pupillometry to diagnosis trauma brain injuries 4) independent research on congenital Toxoplasma gondii.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
My involvement in undergraduate research first began with a position off campus at a local college (Cascadia– Bothell, WA) in which I learned the basic skills and etiquette of assisting in a laboratory. This proved to be a very useful experience as it allowed me to learn and overcome the anxiety that comes with working in research– yet at lower stakes, in a safe environment. Once I felt prepared to enter a more research oriented laboratory, I began my search for applicable opportunities. Eventually, while commuting back home from campus I began a conversation with someone on the bus and expressed my interest in ultrasound application in neuroscience. Through this connection I was recommended to my current P.I. (Professor Mourad). This chance encounter was very pivotal as I had just received my first research assistant rejection and was bracing myself for many more.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
The most important thing is to keep yourself grounded. The fact of the matter is that the research you participate in is more likely to have a greater impact on you than you will have on the research itself. Therefore it is essential to learn what the ideal fit is for you, so you can absorb as much knowledge as possible, allowing you to grow into the career and person you wish to become. Also, do not discourage yourself. Oftentimes we do not have all the tools we want and others have, but that does not mean you cannot achieve success of equal or greater heights.
Major: Biology (Physiology)
Mentor: Dr.Daniel Dürschmied, Department of Cardiology
Contact: deepts@uw.edu
Current research project: Role of Platelet Serotonin in Metabolic Syndrome
Deepthi is a 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.
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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 during the winter quarter of my first year at the UW. I attended 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: Dr. Scott Telfer, Orthopedics and Sports Medicine
Contact: bhavi12@uw.edu
Current research project: Assessment of Regional Bone Quality for Surgical Planning of Posterior Pelvic Ring Fracture Fixation
Bhavica is a junior majoring in bioengineering. She is interested in the application of engineering to solve problems in the medical world and is currently working in the Yager Lab. She has also worked in the computational, robotics and biomechanics lab before on a project for improved surgical pelvic fracture fixation. This summer she started a health empowerment initiative in India focusing on increasing first aid knowledge. She enjoys playing (physically and on the xbox) and watching sports and is currently a sports medicine intern with the UW athletic training program. She also loves binge watching and munching on snacks in her free time.
Fun fact: She’s born on a leap day.
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To surgically fix a fracture in the pelvis, screws are placed in the sacrum bone to hold it in place. We are trying to find areas of consistent (across all ages and sex) bone density in the sacrum to find points to place these screws so that they remain compact and hold the bones in place throughout the healing process.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
It wasn’t till I arrived at UW did I slowly begin to realize the scope for research and my potential involvement in it. Initially, for me researchers something braggable some of my STEM friends were doing. Meanwhile, I thought it might be something constructive for me to do with my time. However, I wondered about my place in the world of research as an inexperienced freshmen; nevertheless, I jumped on to the bandwagon and started to dip my toe into the research finding process towards the end of my freshman quarter. Although with its fair share of waiting, hearing labs are full or not getting a response, the process for me was easier than I had expected. I got into the lab in my sophomore year and oh my had I underestimated the meaning of being involved in research. I instantly felt like I was contributing to something that mattered. I was learning new things and even gaining the confidence to take up other opportunities.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
– Don’t underestimate yourself from the onset of the process, it isn’t easy for any freshmen to understand everything in a research abstract and you aren’t expected to.
– Don’t only apply to 1-2 labs since a lot of times a lab can be at capacity at that time or you may not even get a response from some.
– Take help of the resources like the undergraduate research database and department websites to find opportunities. Talk to an Undergraduate Research advisor to help you frame a cover letter.
Major: Biochemistry
Mentor: Hu Lab, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica
Contact: shihv@uw.edu
Current research project: Assessment of Biocompatibility for Rigidity of Gelated Cells Enable T Cell Modulation
Vicky is a rising junior in biochemistry at the University of Washington. She is very interested in using engineering to solve the problems that medicine faces today. Since June 2020, she has been working with Dr. Hu in Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taiwan on the development of intracellular hydrogelated cells, that also serves as many other purposes as artificial antigen presenting cells, stem cell’s feeding cell, and an alternative solution for cell fixation while still maintaining the biofunction of membrane proteins. She aspires to explore more about engineering and research medicine for her aim of becoming a physician scientist.
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Membranes are the main pathway of how cells and cells contact and communicate with each other. Imaginable, many research focuses on membrane, membrane proteins, and its interaction with other cells, yet no current fixation method are able to preserve both the membrane integrity and membrane protein functionality, thus our intracellular hydrogelated cell provide a easy, cost effective solution to activate T cells by performing as artificial antigen presenting cells; to serve as feeding cells for stem cells; or just to isolate membrane off from the cell for further research!
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I got involved in research over my freshman summer in a summer internship. I was devoted to becoming a physician scientist!
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
Summer internship is the best way of getting involved in undergraduate research! It is an efficient use of time and you will get the most out of it being full time and fully involved over 2 months of summer! Highly recommend.
Major: Biochemistry
Mentor: Michael Bruchas, Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Pharmacology, Bioengineering
Contact: sofia98@uw.edu
Current research project: Amygdalar-Striatal Neural Circuits that Encode Action-Outcome Strategies, Ventral accumbens Shell Cholinergic Interneurons that Enhance Positive Reinforcement
Sofia is a senior at the University of Washington studying biochemistry. She became involved in neuroscience research because she wants to understand the underlying mechanisms of mental illness and addiction. Since joining the Bruchas lab, she has been involved in a few different projects studying neural circuits relating to action selection and reward, and a new inhibitory opsin. Outside of the lab, Sofia likes to spend time in nature, take care of her houseplants, and watch documentaries.
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All of our thoughts and behaviors are controlled by neural circuits in the brain. Understanding how these circuits function will help us better understand and treat mental illness, addiction, and other brain disorders. One project I am currently working on investigates the role of neurons projecting from the amygdala, a subcortical brain region involved in emotion, to the striatum, which functions in reward and motor control. I am also investigating how opioid receptor signaling affects this circuit. My other project is studying how cholinergic interneurons in the nucleus accumbens, the reward center, respond to long range GABAergic neural projections from the ventral tegmental area, which also functions in reward and is acted upon by many addictive drugs. These projects focus on understanding and characterizing neural circuits that are relatively unknown.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I wanted to get a science-related job, so I began working as a laboratory technician starting my freshman year of college. I realized I really liked working in the laboratory setting, and this motivated me to want to be more involved in research projects. Towards the end of my sophomore year, I decided to seek out a position as an undergraduate researcher. I did some digging to find labs that fit my interests, sent out some emails, and landed in the Bruchas Lab.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
Do your research on research! Joining a lab is a big commitment, and it makes a huge difference if you are studying something you actually care about. Don’t just join any lab, join a lab that makes you excited. Being passionate about your work will help you be a successful researcher. The URP database is really useful for finding labs, and if you are interested in a lab be sure to check out their website and publications to get a good idea of the work they do.
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
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance:
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.
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
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.
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.
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
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: Microbiology
Mentor: Dr. Ajai Dandekar, Microbiology
Contact: varuns26@uw.edu
Current research project: Anti-activators of Pseudomonas Aeruginosa Quorum Sensing
Varun Sridhar is a senior in Microbiology and he is currently researching anti-activators of quorum sensing, a bacterial cell-cell communication system that controls gene transcription based on population density, in Pseudomonas aeruginosa, an opportunistic lung pathogen. Varun aspires to make research and academia more accessible for high school students, undergraduates, and young researchers.
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
Quorum sensing is a bacterial cell-cell communication system that many bacteria, including the opportunistic lung pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa, use to control the expression of many genes such as virulence factors. My research focuses on three proteins known as anti-activators which are known to attenuate quorum sensing in P. aeruginosa. I hope to use anti-activators to establish novel methods of treating P. aeruginosa infections as opposed to more traditional means, as conventional antibiotic treatments are slowly becoming less effective in treating infections.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
Growing up, I was inspired by my grandmother, a professor at the Indian Institute of Science, to pursue research. When I came to the University of Washington, I quickly contacted professors in the Biology department whose research I found fascinating, and started working under Dr. Clemens Cabernard, who studies asymmetric cell division in fruit fly neural stem cells.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
Do not be afraid to reach out to professors who do work you find really interesting and ask for a position in their group. At the end of the day, a professor’s job is to teach, and they will most likely be more than happy to meet a prospective student and offer guidance.
Major: Microbiology
Mentor: Elia Tait Wojno, Immunology
Contact: pavitsun@uw.edu
Current research project: How the Notch Signaling Pathway Regulates Basophil Gene Regulation and Function in the Helminth-Infected Intestine
Pavithra is a rising sophomore majoring in Microbiology at the University of Washington. Her research interests include utilizing bioinformatics and wet lab techniques to better understand and tackle human disease. She is currently working on investigating organismal metabolic pathways of iron regulation during helminth infection following Type 2 immune response. She is also applying bioinformatics to analyze NGS data to better understand the Notch signaling pathway and its effects on basophil responses. In her free time, Pavithra enjoys baking, cooking, dancing, and knitting. She is also very passionate about promoting and advocating for women’s empowerment and equality.
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
My work is in the field of parasite immunology. I am currently working on two projects focusing on the regulation of immune responses and inflammation during helminth or parasitic worm infection. My first project is investigating iron metabolism during non-chronic helminth infection. Iron is very important for processes such as oxygen transport, DNA synthesis, and respiration. While chronic helminth infection is associated with iron anemia or low iron due to excess blood loss, not much is known about iron metabolism during nonchronic helminth infection. I am also applying bioinformatics to analyze RNA expression data to better understand the notch signaling pathway’s effects on basophil gene regulation and function in the intestines of helminth infected mice. This research will help inform the development of techniques aimed at decreasing the public health burden of parasitic worm infection.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
During my senior year of high school, I volunteered at a genomics lab at UC Davis, where I got real hands-on experience with wet-lab research. This experience fostered my interest in research and led me to pursue similar experiences at UW.
In the second quarter of my freshman year, I made an appointment to see the microbiology advisor to learn more about requirements for joining the major and possibilities for graduate school. During this conversation, I also mentioned my struggles with finding research opportunities in the microbiology department and my interest in immunology. Following our meeting, my advisor put me in touch with Dr. Wojno to see how I could get involved. After learning more about the work done at the lab and meeting with Dr.Wojno, I was offered my position.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
Never give up! If you ever get rejected from a lab or a research opportunity, use it as motivation to keep trying. Also, make use of the great resources that URP offers to students interested in research to explore and find projects that excite you!
Major: Oceanography
Mentor: Gabrielle Rocap – School of Oceanography
Contact: cjswift@uw.edu
Current research project: The Hybrid Cluster Protein’s Role in Low-Light Prochlorococcus Ecotype Located in the Eastern Tropical North Pacific
Cristian is a freshman in Oceanography at the University of Washington. Having started research at the Ocean Research College Academy (ORCA) in Everett, Washington, he gained a love for oceanography and is exploring the many disciplines within. Here at the University of Washington, he is working with Gabrielle Rocap at the Rocap lab of biological oceanography, investigating proteins of marine bacteria. He is also preparing for a federal internship with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) in summer 2021, preparing him to present at national conferences. Cristian is especially interested in eliminating the racial disparities found in oceanography, participating in the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) committee in the School of Oceanography.
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
I am focusing specifically on the Hybrid Cluster Protein (HCP) found in Prochlorococcus that inhabits oxygen deficient zones because of the uniqueness of the protein for the ecotype and the importance of this phytoplankton. Prochlorococcus are the most numerically abundant photosynthesizer on the planet; the low light ecotype in question has an ability to produce nitrous oxide, a greenhouse gas more potent than carbon dioxide, and can destroy the ozone layer, likely due to its HCP. It has also been shown that marine oxygen deficient zones have been increasing in size, causing concern because this would lead to increased production of potent greenhouse gases such as nitrous oxide. Investigating this protein in Prochlorococcus could lead to a better understanding of marine greenhouse emissions.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I started undergraduate research at the Ocean Research College Academy (ORCA) sophomore year of high school within the running start program. There I did three group research projects investigating tides, heavy metals, and salinity. In the summer of 2019, I had my first internship in a Nation Science Foundation-sponsored program called GEOPATHS, where I conducted my first independent research project. I focused on marine heatwaves over a ten year period, learning programs such as R studio and excel along the way. From there, I have continued to chase new opportunities in oceanographic research leading me to UW.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
Start slow. It can all catch up with you quickly with school, research, other academic activities, social life, and a job (if applicable) can be overwhelming if all done at once or too sudden. Start reaching out to people in lab positions, like the URLs, and network to get you where you want to be. Reaching out is the first step; make sure to maintain and grow connections, and you’ll be doing original research in no time.
Major: Neuroscience and MCD Biology
Mentor: Steve Perlmutter, Physiology and Biophysics
Contact: v881@uw.edu
Current research project: Neural Activity and White Matter Remodeling Following Spinal Cord Injury
Valerie Tsai is a junior in Neuroscience and MCD Biology at the University of Washington interested in the translation of purely academic research to medical applications, and the interdisciplinary aspect of research as a whole. She is currently working in a lab studying electrical stimulation as a treatment for spinal cord injury in rats, and hopes that this research will someday be able to help human patients suffering from spinal cord injuries. She believes research and its results should benefit the public and be more accessible, and has been committed to making her research and other advancements in the field of neuroscience approachable to the general public through her work as an officer of the undergraduate neuroscience journal, Grey Matters.
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The Perlmutter Lab explores various types of electrical stimulation as a treatment for spinal cord injuries in rats, and tests the efficacy of each therapy through a series of behavioral tests that measure the animal’s dexterity, coordination, and strength before and after injury and therapy. We hope that electrical stimulation therapy, once proven effective in rats, may be explored as a treatment for human spinal cord injury patients to improve their mobility and quality of life.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I got involved with research the summer after my freshman year by applying to a variety of positions listed in the URP database. I was lucky enough to get an interview for a position with the Perlmutter lab, and I’ve stayed with them ever since. Research was an avenue I knew I wanted to pursue since starting at UW because I’ve always wanted to apply class concepts in the real world and be able to learn the interdisciplinary connections made when those concepts are put in practice. Through the pursuit of research, I hope to not only expand my own knowledge, I hope to do so in a meaningful way that can contribute positively to the scientific community and the lives of others.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
My advice to anyone considering getting involved in research is to go for it! Send those emails, talk to those professors or TAs about their research, and just keep reaching out. As long as you keep trying you will definitely find a lab or project that fits you and your interests, and oftentimes, what PIs or post-docs are looking for is that tenacity or dedication to their research– you need to show them that you’re making an effort, whether it’s by reading their published papers or showing up to an interview with questions about their current projects.
Something I’ve also learned the hard way is that there will always be room for growth. When you’re first starting in a lab, you’re not going to be an expert, and you might be the person with the least knowledge in the room, but don’t let your pride hold you back from embracing that. Ask all your questions about what you don’t know or understand, and just be ready to learn and absorb as much as you can. Ultimately, research is what you make of it and what you get out of the experience, so just go in with an open and curious mind, show that passion and commitment to learning, and from your experience, you won’t only learn more about the research project itself, you’ll learn more about yourself.
Major: Visual Communication Design
Mentor: Annie T. Chen, Biomedical Informatics and Medical Education
Contact: tsuis@uw.edu
Current research project: Virtual Online Communities for Aging Life Experiences (VOCALE)
Shelley is a senior working on her Bachelor of Design in Visual Communication Design at the University of Washington. Right now she is working with VOCALE (Virtual Online Communities for Aging Life Experiences), an online Discourse platform focused on problem-solving therapy for older adults. Her role is to help provide UX feedback and aid in focus group interviews with past participants in addition to the visual design of the platform itself.
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
There is a need for interventions to promote health management of older adults with frailty. Technology poses promising solutions, but questions exist about effective delivery. Virtual Online Communities for Older Adults (VOCALE) is an eight-week intervention in which participants share health-related experiences
and applied problem-solving skills. Our intervention provides insight into design considerations for digital interventions to promote health-related sharing and problem solving among older adults.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I essentially got involved in undergraduate research accidentally in my junior year at UW. I was taking a class outside my major and the professor sent out an email about a design position to create a platform that would aid patients with cancer for goals of care discussions with their clinicians. The concept sounded intriguing to me and when I applied, it didn’t even occur to me that the position was for a research project! I had always been under the impression that research was limited to STEM fields and so never felt compelled to get involved. I’ve since learned otherwise and I’m committed to sharing my story with others who may have had the same misconceptions I had when I was a freshmen.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
Don’t second-guess yourself! It’s easy to get bogged down by imposter syndrome, especially when first starting out. Every perspective/major/idea contains merit, and it’s so rewarding to see how these projects grow and develop. To be involved in the process itself really makes you feel like you’re a part of something bigger.
Major: Microbiology
Mentor: Sandra Dross, PhD and Deborah Fuller, PhD, UW Department of Microbiology
Contact: ullaha@uw.edu
Current research project: The Impact of aPD-1 on CD8+ T-cell Exhaustion and the Kinetics of Exhaustion in SHIV-Infected Rhesus Macaques Receiving a Novel Combinatorial Immunotherapeutic Regimen
Amirah Ullah is a graduating senior from Texas who is pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology and a minor in Philosophy. Since joining the Fuller Lab in 2019, Amirah has been working with Dr. Deborah Fuller and Dr. Sandra Dross to further analyze the impacts of a novel combinatorial immunotherapeutic regimen in SHIV-infected rhesus macaques, with a specific focus on the effects of aPD-1 on CD8+ T-cell exhaustion, as well as the overall kinetics of T-cell exhaustion. She aspires to help find a cure for HIV in order to help the millions of people affected by this virus worldwide. In her free time, she enjoys running and cycling.
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
An effective HIV vaccine has been very hard to produce since HIV mutates rapidly once inside of a person, but a therapeutic vaccine that targets essential regions of the viral genome (called conserved elements) can help bypass this issue. When used in conjunction with other therapeutic elements such as gene editing, latency reversal, and exhaustion reversal, this conserved element vaccine could help produce an effective cure for HIV, where a person remains infected by the virus, but they can no longer transmit it and can live a relatively healthy life. This could also alleviate some of the burdens associated with the current antiretroviral drugs used, such as having to take numerous pills frequently, or having to change drug regimens that become ineffective towards the virus over time.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I got involved in undergraduate research during Spring quarter of 2019. Looking for labs in the Microbiology Department that seemed interesting to me, I found Dr. Deborah Fuller and some of her lab’s publications on the department website. After sending an email to her one night, she pointed me to one of the lab managers to inquire about joining the lab as an undergraduate researcher. I got involved in research to learn more about my field of study, to learn more about the research process, and inadvertently to learn more about myself. I really wanted to join a community of researchers with a strong drive for the research that they do.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
I would advise students who are interested in undergraduate research not to sell themselves too short and to realize that they are capable of so much even as undergraduate students. You were accepted into the University of Washington for a reason, and you should feel confident and proud to pursue your own passion through the avenue of undergraduate research.
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.
Translate your work so that we can all understand its importance
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: Biochemistry and International Studies
Mentor: Anna Neufeld, Department of statistics
Contact: zrj0201@uw.edu
Current research project: Infectious Disease Modeling
Harper is a senior in Biochemistry and International Studies at the University of Washington. She is very interested in using data science and statistical modeling to solve social science and life science problems. Since September of 2020, she has been working with Dr.Neufeld to develop a mathematical model based on the SIR epidemiology modeling to predict the number of infection cases in UW. She has also been involved in the CoronaNet project, aiming to compile a database on government responses to the coronavirus. As for her personal interests, Harper loves to cook, watch Netflix, and play with her cat.
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By using large datasets and statistical modeling, we can get a view of the overview situation and find out the best strategy given by the situations. In the case of modeling the infection inside UW, we can estimate how far the virus can spread within campus if only one person contacted the other one. We can also predict whether our classes can be in-personal next quarter.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I started participating in research in my sophomore year through emailing professors. At the time, I was really interested in Middle East Civilization and want to learn more about how we research using historical text.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
It’s never too early and never too late to get into research. Start now!
Major: Biochemistry
Mentor: Ahmed Diab, Bruce Clurman, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center
Contact: gzou@uw.edu
Current research project: Three-Dimensional in vitro models of Wee1 Inhibition in Human Colorectal Cancer Cells
Grace is an upcoming junior at the University of Washington studying Biochemistry and pursuing a minor in Mathematics. She is passionate about furthering our understanding of treatable diseases and translating these results into improved patient therapeutics. Her current project focuses on developing more accurate models to gauge chemotherapeutic efficacies in cancer treatments. Outside of research, Grace enjoys writing, teaching, and walks in the park.
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Most cancer research is conducted in two-dimensional petri dishes, where cells grow flat like they’re on a plate. Cancer in our bodies doesn’t grow in two dimensions though, it forms characteristics “lumps” that we can sometimes even feel. I grow cells in a special well plate and medium where they can coalesce together and form a small ball—much more representative of the tumors we see in real life. We can then treat these tumors with chemotherapeutic drugs and see effects similar to what would happen in a patient.
When, how, and why did you get involved in undergraduate research?
I began research as an undergrad at the start of my sophomore year. I knew I wanted to do research in cancer, and I also wanted to experience research outside of a university setting. I looked up professors at the Hutch and sent resumes to those whose work I was interested in. An interview later, and I was starting my research position.
What advice would you give a student who is considering getting involved in undergraduate research?
Cast your net wide! I think research is an opportunity to discover what you enjoy. Any field you could see yourself in or have the slightest curiosity about, apply for a research position in it!