Aya Masri
Academic Year URG
Please provide a brief summary of your research.
My project is centralized around the discovery of new mechanosensing proteins as well as demonstrating their physiological role in blood-flow mechanosensing within mice models. I preform fluorescent antibody testing on promising proteins within cell culture models, microfluidic experiments, and finally within mouse endothelium.
What made you initially interested in researching your project in particular?
The existence of mechanosensing proteins is relatively novel, with not much known about the identities and nature of polarization regarding blood flow. I was interested in pursuing my project, as it is centralized around discovery, which is a really exciting part of science to me. Characterizing mechanosensing proteins contributes to the greater goal of understanding mechanosensing pathways within blood vessels, which is instrumental in real life applications such as cardiovascular disease, something I am very passionate about. I am also planning on pursing a career in cardiovascular surgery, so this was a great opportunity to enhance my mouse dissection and fine motor skills at the same time.
What made you interested in pursuing (interdisciplinary) research more broadly?
I have always been an avid fan of pursuing knowledge, and as a STEM student I had always been very exposed to reading scientific papers through my classes. I wanted to pursue undergraduate research, because I wanted the opportunity to experience the process of scientific method firsthand, and contribute to real innovation and progress for understanding.
Describe your experiences with research thus far. Was it tricky? What skills do you think you’ve gained?
I have had a wonderful experience with research thus far. While it was initially an adjustment to balance with other commitments, I have learned so much about time management and responsibility, making me a much more focused student. I have also learned a variety of laboratory skills, such as cell culture, immunofluorescent imaging, mouse dissection, and quantification using ImageJ and Imaris.
Any tips or advice you have for students similar to you that are interested in pursuing undergraduate research?
The biggest piece of advice that I would give would be to pursue research in topics that you are passionate about, rather than to just check a box. Take the time to understand the day-to-day tasks and commitments of a lab you are interested in, because being able to truly enjoy what you’re doing is the most rewarding part of the research experience. Being genuinely interested in your research will make you the best student researcher possible, and also allow you to have fun!
What is something that you could give a 10 min presentation on right off the cuff?
Playboi carti’s musical evolution
What was your favorite childhood story (written, spoken, or film)?
Where the Wild Things Are