What research did you perform this summer?
"I was involved in developing a gene therapy to address vision loss associated with Usher syndrome type 1F. Vision loss in Usher syndrome remains one of the most elusive aspects of the disease, and much is still unknown about its underlying mechanisms. As a result, it is crucial that we continue to investigate this area through further research in order to develop effective therapies for patients."
- Inayat Zulfiqar, Indzhykulian Lab, Mass Eye and Ear
"This summer, I was working as part of MGBfC's Digestive Diseases Summer Program. I was helping out on a longitudinal research study that looks to track and analyze microbiome development in young children who have a parent or sibling with active celiac disease."
- Taryn Lane, Center for Celiac Research and Treatment, Mass General Brigham for Children
"This summer, I worked under Dr. Francheyska Silfa Mazara on a quality improvement initiative focused on neonatal adaptation syndrome. Working across Newton-Wellesley and Brigham and Women’s Hospital, I saw how multidisciplinary teams could translate clinical nuance into clear and compassionate language.
My passion for neonatal critical care and health equity anchored the work, but what stayed with me most were the conversations with families about their perinatal journey. Those moments reshaped not only my understanding of care, but also my sense of responsibility to the patients who entrust us with their stories of resilience."
- Joanne Jung, Silfa Mazara Lab, Brigham and Women's Hospital
What year in school are you?
From freshmen to doctoral programs, see where the 22 summer research students we interviewed are at in their educational journeys.
Where do you go to school?
Our summer research students come from schools across the United States and around the globe. Check out where the 22 students we interviewed are studying on the map below!
What are you studying?
While summer research students do tend to major in topics related to biology, the breadth of their knowledge is impressive.
Why did you want to be a summer research student?
- Elena Luo, Sarathy Lab, Mass General Brigham for Children
Working to improve newborn screening for hyperbilirubinemia, which causes jaundice
"The Center for Genomic Medicine offers a unique environment where cutting-edge science is being applied to better understand and treat complex genetic conditions. I was especially drawn to the work being done in diabetes and obesity, and I knew that immersing myself in this setting would help shape my academic and career goals, whether I ultimately pursue an MD or a PhD, I am so grateful for Dr. Sue Slaugenhaupt for making this summer opportunity possible for me and many other fellow Eckerd College students."
- Sophia DiPaola, Soukas Lab, Massachusetts General Hospital
Researching C. elegans and how changes in their cells can dramatically extend their lives
"I did a project about the history of gynecology that really opened my eyes to the racial and gender-based disparities in the field of women's health. As a fierce advocate for social justice, this really inspired me to want to use my love for science to help combat this issue. The Mitchell Lab—focusing on the vaginal microbiome—aligned with both my scientific interests and personal values, so I was extremely excited for the opportunity to do research there."
- Grace Pierson, Mitchell Lab, Massachusetts General Hospital
Studying the vaginal microbiome
- Emma Egan, Talkowski Lab, Massachusetts General Hospital
Researching improvements to Non-Invasive Fetal Deep Exome Sequencing
"I was drawn to the opportunity to learn from leading clinician-scientists while building the skills necessary to contribute meaningfully to ophthalmology research. The program is designed to support students with a strong interest in the field but limited access to structured mentorship, which resonated with my own background. This experience has deepened my interest in academic ophthalmology and given me confidence in navigating clinical research."
- Tasnim Mujir, Zebardast Lab, Mass Eye and Ear
Examining post-op complication causes after routine cataract surgery
But you know, it is not always just about research...
Behind every research project is a team of innovators with unique passions, interests and experiences that shape how they see the world — and how they approach science, too! Check out some of the cool things that make our summer students unique.
"I play the trombone and started a band specializing in jazz, funk, and rock at my medical school."
- Humza Qureshi, Bispo Lab, Mass Eye and Ear
" I taught myself how to wield and do tricks with a Star Wars Jedi lightsaber, which surprised my parents and most of my friends."
- Elena Luo, Sarathy Lab, Mass General Brigham for Children
"I surf — a sport that has been in my family for generations!"
- Skyler Recel-Chang, Billaud Lab, Brigham and Women’s Hospital
"I share a middle name with one of the most legendary villains in anime... My middle name is Madara, like the dark, manipulative villain Madara Uchicha from Naruto. We fortunately don't have much in common other than the middle name and the fact that we are both overthinkers."
- Katrine Singer, Quintana Lab, Brigham and Women’s Hospital
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