Catherine Elise Berger, Roberts-Galbraith Lab

“For the last year and a half, I have worked in undergraduate research where I explored the role of genes implicated in neurodegeneration and their effect on planarian regeneration. This work aimed to characterize their expression patterns, effect on motor function, brain and body regeneration. My project is now looking at their effect on stem cells and differentiation. My research experience has shaped me as a scientist, giving me a comprehensive understanding of experimental design, data analysis, and the rigor needed to conduct meaningful research. I gained a deeper understanding of how the regeneration of tissues, including the nervous system, relies on intricate signaling pathways and cellular interactions, and the implications for regenerative medicine.”

“This past summer, I gained industry experience through a Pfizer internship. I worked on projects that focused on reducing contamination and risk during production. Through observation, I became familiar with the challenges of translating research into therapies that can be scaled up for commercial production. This experience underscored the importance of integrating scientific innovation with practical applications. At Pfizer, I witnessed the importance of bridging the gap between research and patient outcomes, and how industry leaders are continuously innovating to meet the demand for new regenerative therapies. I also observed the ethical considerations and regulatory frameworks that ensure new therapies are safe and effective.”