Researcher of the Week: Reema Sharma

Mon, 07 Nov 2011 12:17:24 -0500

When and how did you find out that you could do independent research work as a UMBC undergraduate?
UMBC is a school that is very much focused on advancing undergraduate research. Therefore by enrolling at UMBC, I knew I would have an excellent opportunity to do hands-on research and be able to work on a project of my own. Also, as a Meyerhoff Scholar, I was encouraged to find a lab of my interest.

How did you find a mentor and decide on a project? How did you know this was the project you wanted to do?
I knew I wanted to look for a lab on campus since it would allow more time for me to do research. I started by browsing through the research profiles of professors on the UMBC Biology and Chemistry Department websites and contacting the ones whose research seemed appealing to me. I kept my options open and talked to several professors in each department. Eventually, I decided to work with Dr. Lindahl since I had never worked in a lab that focused on the genetic aspects of an organism and wanted explore research areas that I was not familiar with. We worked together to find a project that was suitable for me.

What academic background did you have before you started on this research?
Before joining my current lab, I had the opportunity to work in two different labs focused on two different areas of research. So I had a basic understanding of lab technique and environment. As for the course load, I had taken basic courses required for a Biochemistry major. During my sophomore year (the year I joined my lab), I took Genetics and Cell Biology both of which were very useful in understanding my research project. However, having said that, I don't think anyone should be discouraged or intimidated from working in a lab just because they believe they will not be able to understand the information. With time and enough literary research, anyone can understand the concept behind a research project and, in some cases, even help you study for your current or future classes.

What is your advice to other students?
I would advise others to look for a lab that not only interests them research wise but also creates a comfortable environment for them to work in. It is important to have the freedom to ask as many questions as necessary to gain a better understanding of your project and the best way to achieve this is to have mentors who encourage your curiosity. Support from your mentor combined with genuine effort on your part can make research a very enjoyable experience. Also, time management is necessary as well as flexibility in your lab work. Working in a lab, especially during the school year, can be difficult because of time limitations. Therefore, looking into how you will incorporate lab work into your schedule is helpful. I found working in a lab on campus to be more convenient as it allowed more time for me to do research instead of commuting.

What are your career goals?
I plan to pursue an MD/PhD after graduation. The areas of Oncology and Neuroscience are very appealing to me and I hope to pursue these fields in my future.

Read more about Reema 's research, "Incorporation of Tagged and Untagged L4 Ribosomal Protein into Ribosomes" at the link below.