Faculty:
Dr. D. Aucoin, PhD - Chair of Natural Sciences Department - Caldwell University
Dr. K. Balasubramanian, PhD - Research Assistant - Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
Undergraduate Mentors: Mr. Kamal Sah
Summer Research Fellow Program at Caldwell University (SRFP)
Have you ever wondered if natural products — the ones you hear about in traditional medicine or wellness trends — actually work against cancer? This summer, join a cutting-edge research team to put those claims to the test!
You'll dive into cancer biology by working directly with human cancer cell lines to investigate the effects of botanical agents (plant-based compounds) on cell health and cell death pathways. Not only will you evaluate the real science behind preventive care and cultural myths about natural remedies, but you’ll also learn advanced laboratory techniques that professional researchers use every day.
Discover whether certain botanical agents can enhance cancer cell death or improve cell viability, and uncover the molecular mechanisms behind these effects. Your research will contribute to a better understanding of how traditional knowledge intersects with modern medicine — and whether some "natural cures" have real scientific power!
Tissue Culture Techniques
Learn how to grow and maintain human cancer cells under sterile lab conditions.
Practice preparing media, passaging cells, and monitoring cell health.
Cell Viability Assays
Test how different natural agents affect cell survival rates using professional assay kits.
Caspase Activity Analysis
Measure how these agents influence caspase enzymes — key players in programmed cell death (apoptosis).
ELISA Technology (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay)
Gain hands-on experience with ELISA, a powerful technique to detect specific proteins, biomarkers, and cellular responses.
Critical Thinking and Cultural Analysis
Evaluate how cultural beliefs around natural products align (or clash) with modern scientific findings.
Bridge traditional and modern science by testing real-world claims.
Contribute to cancer research — one of the most urgent fields in healthcare today.
Master professional lab techniques that are used in biotech, medicine, and pharmaceutical industries.
Build a standout research portfolio that will strengthen your college applications and career path!