127 Research Reflection by Samantha Nestel

Faculty Mentor: Michael Werner (Biological Science, University of Utah)

My research in the Werner lab for the last three years has been second to none. I have loved getting to try new lab techniques including things that typically are reserved for graduate students. It has made my interest in biology grow deeper as I am challenged to learn new topics that are not typically taught widespread in normal biology courses offered to undergraduate students. I am very grateful for Dr. Michael Werner and my other mentor, Shelley Reich, for their influence in my research experience. My research has given me many opportunities including scholarships and taking me to Germany for a paid research internship studying insulin resistance in diabetes patients. My primary focus in the Werner lab has been on epigenetic mechanisms which has shaped my future career goals into wanting to get an MD to become a reproductive endocrinologist and study how epigenetic concepts and drugs can improve infertility treatments.