51 Research Reflection by Emma Ravikovitch

Faculty Mentor: Adam Hughes (Biochemistry, University of Utah)

The time I spent in the Hughes Lab this summer has left a lasting impact on my interest in cellular biochemistry and my desire to continue such research, with both deeply intensifying after the past 10 weeks. As I prepared to leave for Utah, I was full of nerves, hoping that my introductory understanding of biology and lack of a strong research background wouldn’t hold me back. So, when I first arrived and was unfamiliar with practically every machine and protocol mentioned, I felt a bit intimidated, but eager to explore the lab to uncover the purpose and function behind every apparatus that was unknown to me. While it took time to get accustomed to new techniques and vocabulary, I began to feel more comfortable with performing experiments and the various lab equipment. I learned to perform DNA/Colony PCR, yeast transformations, and Western blots, alongside numerous other techniques that I am excited to eventually utilize once again in college lab and future research I hope to partake in.

I was especially excited as I began to understand the reasoning behind each technique, as well as the nuances to each experiment I performed, such as the differences in how the stress inducers we studied each uniquely triggered MDCs. Additionally, I was able to grow more confident not just in my wet lab skills, but also in asking questions and attempting to interpret results, even if what I thought wasn’t correct the first time around.

This newfound confidence regarding research, that leaves me unafraid to ask more questions and reattempt experiments, would have not been possible without the encouraging and kind nature of the lab where every member was willing to answer my inquiries and guide me in my next steps when I encountered failure in my experiments. However, it was through failed PCRs, sample contaminations, or unclear results, that I began to develop my understanding of the non-linearity of research processes. While failed experiments required redo’s, patience, and experiment adjustments, which may have been tedious, I was able to refine my lab skills through repeated practice and learn more about the topic of my research.

These past 10 weeks have affirmed that I want to make research a significant aspect of my future pursuits, especially in the intersection of biochemistry and disease. So, I will miss working in the Hughes Lab, but I look forward to carrying the many memorable experiences from this summer, whether that be from experimental lab work or my time as part of such a supportive team, into my future scientific endeavors!