Showcase Three: Emerging Expertise in Scientific Research
At IU Indianapolis, I have developed my research skills through writing research papers and hands-on lab experience. This page This page showcases specific skills and knowledge I have gained.. Published April 2, 2026.
When I was a new student at IU Indianapolis in the Fall 2023 semester, I was interested in research so that I could apply what I learned from my science courses. I was conflicted, however, because I was afraid I would not be able to manage my time among my academics, student organizations, and research. Thankfully, I have had understanding and supportive research mentors and professors who have allowed me to gain research experience throughout my time at IU Indianapolis. This has strengthened my knowledge of various disciplines by working with research professors and writing research papers.
Capstone: Bone Research in Dr. Jiliang Li's Lab (Spring 2026)
Since the beginning of the Spring 2026 semester, I have been a part of Dr. Jiliang Li's lab, where I have gained many hands-on skills. In this lab, I have been able to assist in genotyping mice by obtaining tail tip samples, completing PCR, and performing gel electrophoresis. Additionally, I have helped to wean, ear notch, and X-ray mice. These are essential aspects in the overall research that aims to discover how specific genes affect bone growth and regeneration. This experience has allowed me to refine my attention to detail, pipetting skills, and aseptic technique.
1RIP: Implant Research at the IU School of Dentistry (2023-2024)
During my first year, I participated in the 1st Year Research Immersion Program, where I was involved in research that investigated dental implant stability and accuracy when bone density and implant type were varied. In this experience, I learned how guides are 3D printed for implant placement from scans of the teeth and how the accuracy of the implants can be measured digitally. Additionally, I was able to attend several periodontics lectures and a seminar with dental students, which was a unique experience that showed me the student experience at the IU School of Dentistry.
Credits: Dr. Louis Asimakopoulos and Dr. Hawra AlQallaf
Cell Biology Honors Paper (Spring 2025)
For this research paper, I reviewed dozens of scientific articles to obtain accurate information about stem cells, including where they come from and how they are being applied in the medical and dental fields. I used the information from my research to craft a detailed paper on the topic of stem cells. As I found information for my paper, I had to determine how relevant the ideas were to my topic and analyze how reliable the data were from each source. From this project, I gained in-depth knowledge about past, current, and future stem cell applications as well as the wide variety of issues they can cure or mitigate. I hope to learn more about stem cells in dental school and, one day, see them used in dentistry firsthand.
Every year at IU Indianapolis, I have enhanced my research skills either in labs or in classes where I have written research papers. These research experiences have truly made my educational journey more meaningful because I have been able to connect and apply concepts from class to real-world applications. Furthermore, participating in research as an undergraduate student has taught me to manage my time to be successful in my classes while also making time for other commitments, from research to volunteering in the Indianapolis community. Through research, I have also been able to connect with my professors outside of class time and gain valuable mentors who want to help me accomplish my goals.