Sunny Dighe

Mary Gates Research Scholar, Fall 2024

Research Project: Keeping in Touch: Investigating the role of Protocadherin-9 in Merkel cells

Project Description: I am investigating the effect of a cell-adhesion molecule called Protocadherin-9 in Merkel cells, which are light-touch receptors in the skin. From preliminary data, it appears that this molecule affects the organization of Merkel cells in the skin, as well as they ways in which they form synapses with the central nervous system. I hope to flesh out these observations further and investigate if a lack of Protocadherin-9 could significantly affect the way an organism feels gentle touch.

What have you learned throughout your research project? My time in the lab so far has been life-changing, persuading me to pursue graduate school after I finish my bachelor’s degree. I have learned valuable technical skills in the lab, and have been afforded opportunities to present my work at different conferences in the Pacific Northwest. While I am still early on in my research experience, I am learning so much about the scientific community and the time, work, and dedication it takes to become a successful researcher. 

What piece of advice do you have for future applicants? Ask everyone you know to review your application! It’s easy to get pigeonholed in the semantics of your already hyper-specific project, but some awesome advice comes from people unfamiliar with your work. Get as much feedback as possible.