Researcher of the Week: Michael Lopresti

Wed, 05 Nov 2014 12:09:37 -0500

Meet Michael...

He is a Biochemistry major and an URA Scholar. He is currently in the process of applying to MD/PhD programs. He feels it is a important role that helps transition ideas generated by research into medically relevant applications.

How did you find your mentor for your research?

I had Dr. Mendelson for Biology 142, and she discussed her research briefly during class. I was interested, so I went up after class and asked her more about it and whether she had any room in her lab for an undergraduate.

Is this your first independent research?

I had a research project in high school that examined the bioaccumulation of a pesticide through an aquatic food chain. However, it didn’t go very well because at the time I didn’t realize how much effort you had to put into research to make sure it went properly. Since then, I have had other research experiences where I learned how to really do research.

How much time do you put into it?

I usually aim for 8-10 hours each week during the school year, but it depends on what else I have going on. This summer I’m doing research for roughly 30 hours each week, it’s nice to not have much else to distract me. I can devote a larger portion of my time to it, and make much more progress.

How did you hear about the Undergraduate Research Award (URA) program?

Dr. Mendelson suggested that I apply, but I had known students who received a URA before.

What academic background did you have before you applied for the URA?

When I applied for my URA I was halfway through my Junior year. I had taken all of the introductory science courses and was starting to move into more major specific courses, like comprehensive biochemistry.

Was the application difficult to do?

The application was not difficult, but it’s definitely not something you should attempt to do at the last minute. I spent a lot of time making sure that my abstract and other application materials accurately described my project and what Dr. Mendelson and I planned to do.

What has been the hardest part about your research?

My research involves using computer programs, like BEAST (Bayesian Evolutionary Analysis by Sampling Trees), to compare sequences of DNA and determine evolutionary relationships. I’ve never used a program like BEAST, so it took me a while to figure out what the program was doing, and how to optimize the settings.

What else are you involved in on campus?

In addition to research, I also tutor in the Chemistry Tutorial Center, and TA for Cell Biology. Outside of science, I’m a Senator in the Student Government Association, and I work with the Admissions Office as part of the A-Team. I enjoy being in SGA because it gives me a break from science, and I get to work with other students who I wouldn’t have met otherwise.

What is your advice to other students about getting involved in research?

Just do it. Make sure you know what you’re getting into, ask the PI if you can work in their lab for a bit, just to get a sense of the kind of work you’d be doing. Most importantly, be ready for some experiments to fail. It happens to everyone, don’t get discouraged.

What are your career goals?

I’m currently in the process of applying to MD/PhD programs. Ideally, I will eventually be a physician-scientist, treating patients and doing research together. It is a important role that helps transition ideas generated by research into medically relevant applications.

Read his abstract here...