While our genes contain information to determine cellular functions, physical traits, and susceptibility to diseases, it is ultimately the regulation of gene expression that specifies when, where, and how genes are used. I became fascinated with how gene expression is controlled to build an organism while studying the development of fruit flies during the thesis research for my PhD in Molecular Biology at Princeton University.

After beginning my career at Shippensburg University, I was fortunate to work on a research project with retired faculty member Dr. Cindy Elliott that gave me the opportunity to apply my interest in gene regulation to questions about the cellular recycling process called autophagy in a glioblastoma cell line. Professor Elliott's enthusiasm for the research project was infectious, and her example has inspired my work supervising many student researchers every year.

Over the past thirteen years, our student projects have evolved from the study of genes directly involved in autophagy to the investigation of the ways that autophagy is coordinated with other cellular processes like cell division, cell migration, and programmed cell death (apoptosis). These cellular processes are all important in the progression and treatment of cancer, so students can work on a problem that impacts all of us who know someone with a cancer diagnosis.

One of the most rewarding aspects of conducting research is building relationships with students and witnessing their growth as they synthesize information and develop their own ideas. Students can see first-hand the complexity of how cellular processes are intertwined, and how research contributes to our current understanding and current technologies. For students with interests in healthcare careers it can give them insight into how treatments are developed, and recognition that there is still a lot that we don't yet understand. For students considering working in a lab or a research career, it provides critical experience with techniques and practice in designing experiments. For any student, research helps them develop strong problem-solving skills, and they learn to read and communicate complex information effectively.

This summer, I enjoyed working with three great students鈥擜ryan Gaonkar, Aubrey McBride, and Cameron Lyons鈥攁s part of the Summer Undergraduate Research (SURE) program. Together, we investigated the effect of selective autophagy on cancer cell migration, which is particularly relevant to metastasis. Using the brain cancer cell line that we have in the lab, we visualized autophagy levels, cell migration rates, and gene expression in response to chemotherapy drugs with different mechanisms of action.

I am grateful that Shippensburg University provides support for this hands-on experience for students, which can be very impactful in their academic and professional growth, as their comments below elaborate.

 

I chose this research opportunity because of its clinical significance and my interest in oncology. This experience will allow me to explore cellular cancer-related processes in greater depth. It will also help me become proficient in essential laboratory techniques such as qPCR, pipetting, and cell maintenance, which will be invaluable for future medical school research and beyond. Furthermore, this opportunity is an excellent entry point into clinical research, an area I plan to pursue during my medical education.鈥�

鈥� Aryan Gaonkar, Shippensburg, PA, a sophomore intending to major in biology with a pre-med concentration.

I wanted to pursue this research opportunity to enhance my undergraduate education. Research allows me to apply foundational biology concepts to emerging research questions. Whatever path I choose after graduation, participating in research has significantly benefited me by developing my critical thinking skills and improving my ability to collaborate effectively.鈥�

鈥� Cameron Lyons, Carlisle, PA, a senior biology major aspiring to become an optometrist.

I was motivated to participate in this research opportunity for several academic and personal reasons. I was excited to join Dr. Bergsten's team this summer to learn laboratory techniques beyond the classroom and to deepen my understanding of the genetics involved in glioblastoma research. Additionally, I have had two family members diagnosed with different forms of cancer in the past decade, which inspired me even more to participate in cancer research out of both personal interest and academic curiosity.鈥�

鈥� Aubrey McBride, Carlisle, PA, a third-year biology major with a concentration in health professions and a minor in psychology, aspiring to work in genetics as a genetic counselor or laboratory technician.