This summer, I worked as a Biology Research Intern under Dr. Walsh. We sought to study lipid droplets, or circular lipid stores within the body, in many different ways. We tested how the formation of these droplets in neuronal cells changed in response to different compounds, such as saturated and unsaturated fatty acids. We tested the expression of certain receptors tied to lipid droplets in these scenarios using laboratory methods such as Polymerase Chain Reactions. Additionally, we ran many laboratory experiments involving cell staining, Gel analysis, and BCA assays to find specific fatty acids that had an effect. We found that Palmitic Acid specifically showed cell death in these neurons with no increase in lipid droplet count.
As stated, this research allowed me to use many different laboratory techniques, giving me a glimpse into the professional laboratory sphere of biological research. After being guided by Dr. Walsh, my two fellow interns and I were able to plan and handle a schedule for efficiently and effectively running these experiments. Through trial and error, we created a system that allowed us to run experiments, record results, and prepare for the next experiment all at the same time. This allowed us to increase our proficiency in working together and gathering results, making multiple experiments be conducted at the same time. We also conducted our own independent research by reading scientific literature to investigate the certain amounts of compounds needed to run these experiments. This process greatly increased my ability to work with a team, gather needed information quickly, and become well-versed in common research techniques used in the laboratory.
As a biology major, this internship was perfect to learn how professional biologists conduct research and handle both teaching and learning simultaneously. It is one thing to learn about these techniques in a lecture, but being able to conduct them myself greatly increased my knowledge and ability to understand their purposes. Additionally, I feel as though I achieved a more well-rounded and full appreciation for the abilities and thinking required to further the world’s scientific knowledge. I want to thank Dr. Walsh and my fellow interns for welcoming me into this internship and teaching me how to be a better learner, leader, and friend.
