Julie Nguyen

ABOUT THE RESEARCHER:

1.     Who are you doing research with this summer and what kind of research project are you doing?

I am doing research with Dr. Wang and Amber Gunderwala in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry. I am working on characterizing the CRAF R391W mutant, found in some melanomas.

2.     What do you find fascinating in the research you’re doing?

A change in a single amino acid of a protein can have devastating effects! Not only that, the effects of different mutations can be extremely varied, which paves the way for a diverse array of cancer treatments.

3.     What skills are you learning through the USURF experience?

I am learning techniques such as cell culturing in order to evaluate the effects of CRAF R391W under different conditions for my project. I am also learning more advanced biochemical techniques such as protein purification when I am aiding my graduate student supervisor in her projects.

4.     What are the challenges you’re encountering in your research?

The biggest hurdles come from time management. Some experiments span over the course of a couple of days. Since I have to juggle my research with my class and job schedules, planning ahead has been the greatest asset to maintaining a healthy balance.

5.     How is your USURF experience impacting the way you view your field?

When I look at different medications or shadow in clinics, I can see the hundreds to thousands of hours of research being put in for public use. It gives me hope seeing that the hours spent toiling away in the lab will eventually play a beneficial role in someone else’s life.

6.     Tell us something interesting about yourself.

I have seven pet birds!

7.  How has the COVID pandemic impacting you and how are you coping with it ?

The COVID-19 has stripped away many of my own opportunities for the summer, but it has also opened my eyes to just how detrimental it can be for others. In the world of healthcare, a public health crisis such as this has not only medical implications, but social and economic ones as well. On a personal level, I cope by picking up old hobbies like drawing or playing the piano.