SOAR Position: Member; Alumni

Major: Psychology

Faculty Mentor(s): Dr. April Weissmiller

Current Focus

The interaction of N-MYC and chromatin regulatory complexes: therapeutic potential in neuroblastoma

Additional Interests: Member; Alumni

Project Description

Neuroblastoma is a pediatric cancer involving the most common solid extracranial tumor in children. Amplification of the transcription factor N-MYC is associated with the most severe cases and less than a 50% survival rate despite a variety of aggressive treatments. My project focuses on investigating N-MYC and how its interactions with chromatin regulatory complexes drive cancer growth.

Why does this topic interest you?

I am deeply interested in cancer biology and its mechanisms at the cellular/molecular level.

What are your professional aspirations?

I want to be a medical doctor that sees patients and also works in research.

Do you have any advice for future researchers?

Do not be afraid to try research! I never thought I would enjoy research as much as I do now. It has been one of the most rewarding things I have ever done.