Illinois State Junior Explores Pancreatic Cancer Research at Johns Hopkins

Hope Omoniyi, a junior majoring in biological sciences at Illinois State University, dedicated her summer to researching pancreatic cancer at the prestigious Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore.

During her internship, Omoniyi focused on studying precancerous lesions known as PanIN and their progression with age. She described pancreatic cancer as particularly challenging to study due to its severity.

Working alongside a mentor and a principal investigator, Omoniyi was part of a cohort of 13 interns from various universities. Her research was largely independent, allowing her to determine her lab hours and research parameters.

Her daily tasks involved examining H and E stained slides of pancreatic cells to identify cellular structures and analyze tissue samples. Additionally, Omoniyi gained valuable skills by shadowing doctors and learning to code using MATLAB, a programming platform employed in her research.

Reflecting on her experience, Omoniyi noted that the rigorous training she received at Illinois State University instilled her with the confidence needed to succeed in such a competitive environment.

Omoniyi's time at Johns Hopkins clarified her career aspirations. While she initially aimed to become a medical doctor, her summer research experience ignited a passion for scientific inquiry.

She encouraged fellow students to pursue opportunities without hesitation, sharing her belief that shyness can hinder potential achievements. Omoniyi learned about the internship through a friend and made the decision to apply.

Beyond her research, Omoniyi enjoyed exploring Baltimore with her fellow interns, fostering camaraderie through shared experiences such as gym sessions and city explorations.

At the end of her internship, she presented her findings to peers, Ph.D. students, and mentors, expressing gratitude for the connections and knowledge gained during her time at Johns Hopkins.

Omoniyi was not alone in her endeavors; she connected with recent Illinois State alumni working at the hospital, further enhancing her experience.

Reported by HarborBeat based on Illinois State University News (source).