Nicholas Makosiej

ABOUT THE RESEARCHER

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

I am doing in-vitro research with Dr Mercier in the Pharmacology Department this summer. We are investigating a small novel molecule discovered at USciences that selectively targets and kills triple negative breast cancer without damaging healthy breast tissue.

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

I love the research I have the privilege to take part in at Dr Mercier’s lab. I find the work I do in the lab to be very satisfying and rewarding. Perhaps the most interesting part about the research is working through the puzzle of how exactly this molecule works. Additionally, this project has a promising future that will undoubtably help improve the prognosis for cancer patients in the near future. This idea which is what motivates me to go into lab every day and contribute my best efforts. 

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

Through USURF I am granted the opportunity to hone my lab skills and produce consistent and reliable results. Additionally, I am learning new lab techniques that will allow me to explore new details about the molecule.

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

I have faced several challenges performing research this summer. The largest obstacle I have had to overcome was producing consistent and replicable effects on the cancer cells with different versions of the novel molecule. I am privileged to have Dr Mercier as an advisor as she has guided me through the learning curve and taught me how to overcome these challenges. I feel these challenges are crucial in that they force me to learn the material in depth and think of innovation solutions.

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

USURF has opened my eyes to reality that physicians are more than clinicians. Physicians perform research, help educate their colleagues and patients on their findings, and utilize that to deliver the best quality healthcare possible.  

6. Tell us something interesting about yourself.

I have been in collaboration with public safety for the past year to establish student based USciences EMS. I am proud to announce that we will be a fully licensed and operation emergency response unit for the USciences’ community this Fall.