Mary Gates Endowment For Students
Maria Kang
Mary Gates Research Scholar, Winter 2024
Research Project: Circadian Rhythmic Gene Expression in Human Airway Epithelial Cells in Health and in Asthma
Project Description: Asthma exacerbations often begin and increase in severity at night; our lab works towards finding out why. Using an ex vivo model of the human airway, we temperature cycle human airway epithelial cells, and then utilize the RT-qPCR protocol to measure the gene expression of core circadian genes over a 48-hour period. We hope to contribute towards the development of chronotherapeutics for asthma– therapies that take into account time of day.
What have you learned throughout your research project?
Through my time at the Powell Lab, I have learned how to problem solve, critically think, and to be resilient. Most importantly, I have learned how to thrive in the face of discomfort and uncertainty; everyday in lab entails doing something new, encountering an unexpected situation, or being confronted by a challenge. I have learned not to view these situations as intimidating, but to view them as opportunities to grow.
What piece of advice do you have for future applicants?
When finding a lab to become involved with, find one that is able to support your personal growth; find one that supports your future goals and one that will help you to become the future researcher you want to be.