Meet Annette St. Jacques ’26, an OUR Peer Research Ambassador majoring in Molecular & Cell Biology.
What is the focus of your research?
I am a member of the Hanlon Lab in the Molecular & Cell Biology department. We study how new chromosomes form, move, and change over time by using the fruit fly as a model. I am interested in how age impacts the number of chromosomes that are passed down each generation.
Why did you get involved in research?
I got involved in research to try something new. I enjoyed classes with lab sections because of the hands-on aspect of science. During my first year at UConn, I took a First Year Experience course that focused on exploring STEM undergrad research. In that class, I was able to connect with faculty and learn about the different opportunities on campus. After that, I was curious about research and tried to find a lab.
What advice would you give to aspiring student researchers?
I would recommend that everyone should give research a try! By getting involved in research, you can dig deeper into a topic that fascinates you. There are so many different types of research, the possibilities are endless. Even if there is not a specific lab or group that you want to join, there are many ways to investigate the questions you have.
What do you enjoy the most about participating in research?
The part about research that I enjoy the most is that it is okay to be wrong! By creating hypotheses and testing experimental designs, it is rare for things to go as planned. Research is all about being creative and thinking outside of the box. If an experiment does not go as planned, something is learned regardless!
What are your plans after graduation? How has involvement in research/creative activity influenced your plans and/or prepared you for the future?
After graduation, I plan on continuing my education in a graduate program in developmental genetics. Later on, I want to work as an embryologist in a fertility clinic helping create families. Being involved in research has allowed me to explore other things to do with my life. I can still make an impact on human health without going to medical school!
Click here for more information on Annette and other OUR Peer Research Ambassadors.