Track: Molecular Probes and Sensors
Undergrad: University of Oregon, Eugene, OR - Biochemistry
Internship: Cancer Early Detection Advanced Research (CEDAR) Center
Current Job Title: Senior Research Assistant
What about the program intrigued you and why did you choose this path?
When I applied, I had already worked a year as a quality control laboratory technician within the food industry, and while I did not necessarily have a clear-cut idea of what I wanted to become, I knew I wanted to maintain the real-world contributions that came with industry. I quickly realized that this program had the potential to lead me toward the right path. Being designed for industry-inclined scientists, this program was uniquely positioned to nurture the productive and critical thinking mindset that is highly valued in industrial science. At the same time, it offset the typically high cost of advanced degrees through its paid internship, an important factor for first-generation students such as myself, and further developed a sense of meritocratic principles, in which one was defined by their capability and willingness to learn, rather than their financial resources.
What were the coursework and labs like for you?
We started by taking courses on chemical biology (a good opportunity to relearn anything you may have forgotten over the years) before going in depth into molecular probes and sensors as a field. After this, we had the opportunity to take a variety of elective courses in a number of areas that hold importance for chemists (including advanced instrumental techniques, experimental design, etc.). At the same time, we took part in lab courses that explored the different chemical and biological capabilities for molecular probes, such as synthesizing fluorophores for biochemical applications. Our final lab course involved real companies proposing specific tasks for me and my lab-mates to complete. These tasks ranged from synthetic, bio-, and organic chemistry, giving us the choice between a variety of learning experiences. If this sounds daunting, do not be intimidated; the program was designed to give you real-world challenges, but with a great team of scientists, industry-experts, and mentors to provide essential guidance.
After two quarters of coursework and labs, you have the opportunity to interview with a wide variety of companies. Again, the program prepared us for these interviews (and many more soft skills!) through a professional development course.
Where did you do your internship?
I accepted an internship at the Cancer Early Detection Advanced Research (CEDAR) Center at OHSU in Portland, OR. Here I assisted in developing new methodologies by which to detect cancer in its earliest (and most treatable) stages by combining biochemistry, biology, and synthetic chemistry! My specific role took the form of chemically functionalizing biochips that could sample DNA or protein in human samples, and purify only known cancer-related biomarkers to measure the stage of cancer development in patients, often earlier than current tests allow.
Without giving away proprietary info, what was your internship like?
During my internship, I learned that I was not working with preassigned protocol or simply following the directions of a lab supervisor. Instead I was a part of a team of researchers with various backgrounds who collaborated to develop solutions for unique problems in early cancer detection. As a result, I had much more freedom in the steps I took to garner findings, which required independent thinking that was not as valued in positions I held before I joined the program and internship. This involved translating the needs of biologists into functional chemical systems that could derive them the necessary data to push projects forward. An example would be synthesizing unique biochemical structures in glass chips capable of ignoring common biomarkers for rarer, cancer-related byproducts.
Did you feel the program prepared you for the internship?
All in all, the program offered numerous experiences to prepare me for real-world scenarios in science. It was here that the insight I gained from the program proved invaluable in guiding the expectations for my field, including communicating data through team presentations, managing several different experiments simultaneously, and incorporating advanced instruments into personally designed protocols. Most importantly, I was prepared to expect to NOT immediately have every new skill I would need, because I had learned how to gain it by asking the right questions, and efficiently finding the most relevant resources available.
What is your current job like?
I continue to grow with CEDAR by developing my own project combining computer modeled probe-protein interactions with analytical chemistry to discriminate and purify cancer-causing biomarkers to create new libraries for public benefit. At the same time, I am designing and synthesizing new biochemical linkers that will help bridge the gap between chemical and biological detection technologies. This requires determining shortfalls in biomarker detection methods that can benefit from chemical modifications. As a result, knowing how to concisely communicate with scientists of various backgrounds is a key part of my position. This is a skill I gained from my internship and the program, allowing me to push further into discovering what roles molecular sensors can serve in early cancer detection.
How have you evolved in your career since you started?
I have grown from a lab tech who felt he only knew how to follow basic, pre-made protocols to a collaborative scientist capable of fast-paced problem solving. I feel motivated in developing and growing in my field as I can see the beneficial effects of my contributions and efforts. By taking the skills I learned in this program, I am able to work on the bridge between industry and research to produce significant results more consistently and reliably to serve an important need.
How does your work or the work of your company serve the common good for society?
Even as a non-profit, CEDAR strives to vastly improve the methodology by which cancer is detected, and ensure it takes place at a much-earlier rate than current practices allow. As cancer has, unfortunately, touched everyone’s life in some way, diagnosing cancer earlier ensures that the most treatment options are available to improve survival rates for all.
What else would you like to share with students?
During the application process, you will be expected to include a resume that includes your previous work and research experiences. I learned that in addition to looking at any research experience I had, they also put a lot of emphasis on how the resume described me as an individual. I included the fact that I had worked nearly full-time during my undergraduate tenure, while still maintaining my GPA. Even though it did not necessarily describe my scientific capabilities, it did give evidence of a good work ethic and time-management skills. Therefore, I recommend including all aspects of your previous experiences, even if, on the surface, it can feel unrelated to your scientific expertise.