Researcher of the Week: Kimchi Nguyen

Mon, 04 Mar 2013 10:25:39 -0500

How did you find your mentor for your research project?
I have always been interested in research. In the summer of my sophomore year, I emailed Dr. Richard Karpel expressing my interest in his lab. It was a very exciting moment when Dr. Karpel emailed me back to set up a date to talk about his research. As a result, since fall 2012 I have been working in Dr. Karpel’s lab.
How did you know this was the project you wanted to do?
I started out working on projects with other undergraduates in my lab, familiarizing myself with the experiments and how to work the different instruments needed for our research. Dr. Karpel approached me one day and asked me if I wanted to work on my own project. I have always wanted the experience of independently leading a project, so I accepted. I knew I wanted to work on the project Dr. Karpel suggested because it is the same concept to which I have been exposed while working with other experienced undergraduates. However, this project will be a new learning experience for me because instead of working with ssDNA, my project will focus on dsDNA. I hope that my project will further our understanding of the interaction of dsDNA with gene 32 protein.
Is this your first independent research?
No, this is not my first independent research project. However, it is my first project that involves funding.
How much time do you put into it?
I started to work on my URA project in the spring 2012. I have been working about 10 hours a week in the summer. I plan to work 5-8 hours a week during the academic year.
How did you hear about the Undergraduate Research Award (URA) program?
Many of my undergraduate friends who work in various research labs recommended that I look into the Undergraduate Research Award. Dr. Karpel gave me a research topic, emailed me the URA application, and encouraged me to give it a try. He said to try my best and even if I was not accepted, the application process would give me experience in the future with writing proposals and asking for funding.
What academic background did you have before you applied for the URA?
I had already finished Biochemistry and was taking Biochemistry II at the time, so I felt like I was prepared for this project.
Was the URA application difficult to do?
The application was not hard to do. It was very straightforward. The process of filling out the application allowed me to expand my ideas on the topic and I was able to understand more about my project as a whole.
How much did your mentor help you with the application?
Dr. Karpel helped me proofread my application. He also gave me suggestions to improve the background information section on my application. He was very helpful and supportive.
What has been the hardest part about your research?
The hardest part of my research so far is my attempt to produce DNA cellulose because the absorbance of dsDNA was too low, so I had to repeat the process. This process requires much time because the DNA cellulose takes weeks to dry.
What else are you involved in on campus?
I have been a volunteer of Health Leads for three semesters now. Health Leads is a volunteer group that addresses the socio-economic needs of patients in impoverished areas. We help patients at St. Agnes Hospital obtain resources that can help them access employment, health insurance, adult education, and many more benefits. Starting in fall 2012, I will be a Campus Coordinator of Health Leads. In addition, I am peer mentor for Psychology 100 and President of the Vietnamese Student Association.
What is your advice to other students about getting involved in research?
Do not be afraid to approach faculty members about being a part of their research. If they see that the student is passionate and sincere about their research, then they will happily let the student in their lab. Our campus is full of research resources, you simply have to ask, and someone will guide you.