Ever since the time my eighth-grade biology teacher introduced me to the life cycle of Plasmodium, I have developed a keen interest in the shortcomings of our immune system when faced with various disorders. Especially the molecular and genetic underpinnings behind the hijacking of the genetic component of a human cell. My desire to comprehend the intricate details of such a phenomenon has motivated me to utilize any available resources such as my teachers and scientific journals to answer my questions. However, I mostly get “we do not know” or a similar answer along those lines whenever my questions pertain to the unexplored traits of viruses, autoimmune disorders, and cancers. The desire to get involved in research to eliminate at least …show more content…
The study focuses on two prominent issues affecting Lancaster County: elevated blood lead level in children under six years old and opioid addiction. Consequently, I have been reviewing scientific literature, contacting relevant public officials and analyzing the shortcomings of current policies set to tackle these issues. However, my desire to learn the essential practical skills required for biochemical research remained unquenched. Hence, I persisted in enquiring if my professors had any spots available to partake in their study until I was offered a place in a lab. As a result, during the upcoming spring semester, I will be working in a biochemistry professor’s lab that focuses on the role of FIKK kinases in the virulence of Plasmodium …show more content…
Moreover, both innovative and fundamental techniques constitute the experimental methods employed in their studies. Dr. Rebay’s lab multidisciplinary approach that utilizes biochemistry, genetics, proteomics and other fields of study to elucidate complex signaling pathways will teach me not only the theoretical concepts and technical skills required to conduct such scientific investigations but also how multiple areas of science can synchronize to explain a given genetic phenomenon. Dr. Lee’s research resonates with my curiosity about infertility since it focuses on the versatility of small RNAs including silencing of genes over multiple generations which may lead to infertility. Dr. Ruthenberg’s study explores the invaluable function of chromatins which I previously assumed were nothing more than packaging. Hence, his research provides further insight into chromatin function which I have not and may not learn during my undergraduate years. Moreover, the study utilizes advanced techniques such as X-ray crystallography to answer questions regarding chromatin structure which makes it an invaluable learning experience that is not available at my home