Berina Halilovic Summer Research Fellow 2022

Research Project Title: "Characterization of the T253I germline tp53 mutation identified in a patient with adrenocortical carcinoma."

Brief Project Description: "There is a patient that was found with this mutation but it has not been characterized. The research goes into finding out whether this mutation is related to her adrenocortical carcinoma."

Q. FINISH THIS SENTENCE:   "I enjoy research because....."

A. "I'm able to expand my knowledge within science and be able to find answers that can bring life-changing solutions to healthcare."

Q. How did you first get interested in undergraduate research at UK?

A. "I started doing research sophomore year of undergrad and I've always had an eye for wanting answers and a way to get experience in different fields of science. I enjoy doing my own experiments so when presented with the chance, I jumped at it."

Q. What has been the most exciting aspect of your research experience so far?

A. "The most exciting aspect has been transfecting different cells to incorporate mutations within them and then running treatments on those cells to see if they react in a significant manner."

Q. How has undergraduate research impacted your college experience at the University of Kentucky?

A. "I think that undergrad research has definitely opened up my eyes to a multitude of fields of medicine that I didn't even consider before. It has also given me experience that has also correlated with what I've learned in the classroom."

Q. What advice would you give to UK students who are considering starting research?

A. "100% do it. Research has helped me make connections within the medical field and expand my knowledge on not only scientific lab techniques, but overall concepts that are vital (like biochem pathways)."