Summer Research Fellow Spotlight Courtney Martin
“Cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, and cancer rates are high within America. Kentucky ranks first in the nation in the overall incidence of cancer and has the highest mortality rate of any state in America. Beyond that, statistics show that among all of Kentucky, cancer is most prevalent in the Appalachian region. In fact, individuals in Appalachia are faced with cancer related death rates as much as 30% higher than all other regions.” Courtney’s project involves conducting and analyzing oral history interviews with Appalachian natives that have been personally affected by cancer and medical professionals, specifically, local oncologist who are responsible for treating the disease. “This work is first of its kind. There has been no such oral history project ever created focusing on cancer in Appalachian Kentucky. Creating such a project is important to share the personal stories of how cancer affects the region and to generate intervention and policy proposals to address the problems.”
Q: How did you first get interested in undergraduate research at UK?
A: "After learning about the opportunities UK had to offer, I decided to enroll in BIO395 where I would have the opportunity to conduct independent research under a mentor. I went through the list of mentors, and found a mentor who was conducting research relevant to Alzheimer’s Disease and Diabetes, these were of particular interest due to my family history. Needless to say, I have continued research ever since and have deeply enjoyed my experience."
Q: How long have you been engaged in undergraduate research?
A: "I have been conducting research since Fall of 2019."
Q: Describe what a typical day of remote summer research activity looks like for you. How does this differ from your pre-COVID research activity?
A: "Generally, I am analyzing data on my computer and discussing the findings with my mentor at our meeting. Part of our research consists of conducting interviews, unfortunately, I have been unable to personally conduct an interview due to COVID19, however, I have been able to listen to the interviews conducted prior and continue carrying out our research."
Q: What has been the most exciting aspect of your research so far?
A: "As an Eastern, KY native I have enjoyed conducting research specific to the place I call home. Doing so has allowed me to better understand the problems being faced by my community and the potential solutions to improving the lives and overall well-being of people in Appalachia."
Q: What advice would you give to other UK students thinking about doing research?
A: "I suggest that students reach out to mentors. From my experience, they are more than happy to discuss their projects and how you could get involved. Find something you enjoy, and go for it! Research has allowed me to establish relationships, engage in hands-on learning, and taught me things I would have never been able to learn in a traditional classroom setting. I would recommend exploring the idea to anyone, research has definitely been one of my most memorable experiences at UK."
The UK Office of Undergraduate Research's Summer Research & Creativity Fellowship program provides undergraduates with the opportunity to study in a wide variety of disciplines while doing intensive and self-directed research under the supervision of a faculty mentor.