Interning in Research: Hannah Pachalis’ Experience at the Gene Editing Institute

"By making the effort to find research opportunities that you are interested in and reaching out to these groups, you are setting yourself up for success."

Here at the Gene Editing Institute, we’re committed to building and supporting the next generation of scientists and guiding their journey into careers within the fields of biopharmaceuticals, research, and medical science. This summer, a rising college senior named Hannah Pachalis applied for our internship position. Her dedication to medicine and research piqued our interest, and we gladly brought her on as a summer research intern. She spent her days in the laboratory seeing a whole new side of genomics than what she saw in the classroom. Hannah is back in Florida now to finish out her degree in Health Sciences, but she’s continuing to work with us as a remote consultant.

I had the chance to sit down with her to talk about her time at the Institute, her interest in the field, and her words of wisdom for future interns in any field of science. Thank you, Hannah, for taking the time to talk to us!

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Could you give a brief overview of your background in science? What started you on this pathway? What motivated you to stay?

I’ve known that I’ve wanted to pursue a career in sciences since high school. I began getting involved in pre-medical activities and have loved it. I wanted to get involved in research as a way to get my foot in the door in contributing to the scientific community!

Where do you currently go to college?

University of Miami

What made you want to apply for your internship here at the Gene Editing Institute?

I was looking into local research projects and stumbled upon the Gene Editing Institute’s page. I’ve learned about CRISPR in my classes and thought that getting involved in pre-clinical research using this biotechnology would be incredibly interesting!

What was your day-to-day here over the summer? How did it change when fall arrived? Do you have one you prefer?

My day-to-day schedule changed throughout the summer. In my in-vivo work, I mastered murine model subcutaneous injections, viability assessments, tumor growth measurements, and assisted in surgical procedures. Regarding in-vitro work, I focused on mammalian cell culture and various tissue processing techniques such as complex homogenizations and preparations for RNA extraction. Now while at school, I have been supporting the team by continuing to input and track tumor volumes. I prefer to be in the lab and learning through hands-on experiences, however, I am grateful to still be able to provide support from afar.?

Did you find any mentors while you were here at the institute? What made them mentors? How did they support you?

Dr. Katelynn Owens brought me into her In-Vivo Oncology Group?and assisted me throughout my entire learning process. Emily Gielda helped train me on murine models and taught me all of the skills necessary. Dr. Natalia Rivera-Torres taught me the background knowledge of the work at GEI and focused on training me in in-vitro work. Natalia spent time teaching me the science behind the work GEI is doing which was incredibly helpful in furthering my understanding! Kate also walked me through many procedures and helped me understand the "why" behind these procedures. Nicole and Emily were always there for me when I was asking questions as well. I am so grateful for the relationship that I was able to create with the in-vivo group and I know I can count on them for advice!

What was your favorite part of the internship?

My favorite part of this internship was finding a greater love for research!?Before this internship, research seemed foreign and intimidating. I truly loved the day-to-day activities in the lab and learning so much. Pursuing further research activities seems a lot more feasible now!

Is there anything you wish you had gotten the chance to do more of?

The in-person aspect of this internship was only three months, so I wish I was able to spend more time in the lab mastering the skills and background knowledge.

What are your plans post-college? Are you looking at any particular degrees or careers?

I am planning on spending about two years doing research. After spending time in research, I am hoping to begin medical school.?This internship has proven to be incredibly valuable for my applications to other research projects in the future. Furthermore, it will be an aspect of my medical application which I am excited to talk to admission committees about!

What would you say to someone applying for a lab internship?

Be open to any opportunity presented! You truly never know how valuable an experience will be.

What would you recommend to other students who might be curious about internships in research but not sure where to start?

I would say that my best advice is to not be afraid of rejection. I have reached out to many groups conducting research and have received many nos but also many yesess. By making the effort to find research opportunities that you are interested in and reaching out to these groups, you are setting yourself up for success. Many mentors understand the position of being a student trying to get involved and want to see you succeed as well!

If you’d like to learn more about our internship opportunities, please visit the Careers page of our website.