FRANCES MILLER NCUR 2022 Spotlight

Frances Miller

Senior, Biology (B.S.) major and Spanish minor

Research Mentor: Dr. Patrick Hannon

I enjoy research because.... "it opens the door for me to pursue new solutions and new horizons within the fields of toxicology and women's health/endocrinology. Research allows me to have a hands-on experience within a field of science that I'm passionate about, and it also has given me such a wonderful community of like-minded individuals that have changed my life for the better."

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

"I first became interested in undergraduate research at UK when I chose to become a part of the STEMcats LLP. My project focused on discovering the circadian rhythm timepoints within a specific human gut bacteria. When presenting my findings at the undergraduate research showcase, I was enthralled by the variety and vastness of the different specialties and fields within research. I was soon introduced to Dr. Hannon and his team, and the rest is history!"

How long have you been engaged in undergraduate research?

"This will be my 4th year in undergraduate research and my 3rd year working in Dr. Hannon's lab within the University of Kentucky College of Medicine's Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology. "

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

"The most exciting part of my research thus far has been being able to share my passion for scientific discovery with friends, colleagues, and others by presenting my findings through poster presentations, both online and in person."

What advice would you give to other UK students thinking about doing research?

"To students looking to get into research - I would advise persistence. In all aspects, persistence in your involvement with peers and professors alike (and in your work ethic) will go a long way. Even if you have no research experience at all, showing passion and pursuing consistency in your work will speak volumes with regard to finding the perfect lab to fit into. Additionally, if you do get involved with a certain project or lab that does not fit your interests or goals, it is totally okay to seek out other options! There are endless ongoing projects in an innumerable amount of disciplines, so if the "perfect fit" for you is not the first experience you have, keep searching!"