This summer I worked in a research lab for Dr. Sorensen as part of the Sorensen Novak Lab also known as SNL to those who have worked in this lab. In this internship we have worked on developing a new molecular tool known as LOCKR which will be used to study gene function in organisms. This work includes assembling multiple genes together which will then be inserted into an animal’s genome using a gene editing tool. Along with this we also worked with other tools used to study genes such as RNAi which we will then use to compare to LOCKR to determine its efficacy. Much of the work we did required us to use a model organism called C. elegans which are microscopic worms.
On top of the research itself we also hosted an outreach event for the local elementary school. The fifth grade class was given a mystery that had to be solved by analyzing DNA and blood type left at the scene of the “crime”. This was a great opportunity to expose the kids to ways science can be used and seeing them get excited about solving the mystery made the experience very fun.
This is my second summer working in the SNL and I really believe it is a great experience. Although I have now spent close to a year working in this lab I am constantly learning new techniques and becoming more and more independent in a lab setting. The summer specifically is a great time to get involved because Dr. Sorensen and Dr. Novak are able to provide much more assistance with projects you might otherwise not be prepared to do alone. This internship was very valuable to me because I hope to do research in a very similar if not the same field and getting lots of hands-on experience in the lab is the best way I can prepare myself for that.
I would highly recommend this internship to any biology or biochemistry majors, especially those who are considering research as a possible route. Dr. Sorensen and Dr. Novak help to foster a great environment to work in, and the environment is very collaborative providing lots of support to one another with projects and understanding topics. Lastly I would like to thank Dr. Sorensen and Dr. Novak for their work setting up the lab and mentoring all of us. I would also like to thank the NSF for funding our research.
