Converting Curiosity into Cancer Research Breakthroughs
For Nhi Nguyen, undergraduate research has been a transformative experience, deepening her curiosity and passion for scientific discovery.
Since the spring semester of her sophomore year, Nhi, a senior from Hudson majoring in biomedical and health science, has dedicated herself to researching breast cancer cell morphology and motility under the mentorship of biology Professor Tim Lyden.
Nhi’s research focuses on understanding how breast cancer cells move and interact differently compared to normal cells, an area of study that could lead to improved treatments.
“Cancer cells behave very differently,” Nhi said. “They are hyperactive, reaching out to other cells in a way that allows the cancer to grow. We’re really trying to understand this behavior better, with the hope that this knowledge can contribute to stopping cancer growth.”
Through a time-lapse imaging technique, Nhi can observe cell behavior over an extended period, providing valuable insights into how cancer cells expand and interact.
“To actually see the cells growing and moving like this, it’s eye-opening,” she said. “It helps me understand what’s happening at a level you can’t just read about in a textbook.”
Since beginning her research, Nhi has participated in multiple undergraduate research programs and events, including the Undergraduate Research, Scholarly and Creative Activity (URSCA) program, Research in the Rotunda and the Wisconsin Science Education and Research (WiSER) Consortium. She will also be presenting her work at the upcoming National Conference on Undergraduate Research (NCUR), showcasing her work on a national stage.
Initially apprehensive about presenting her findings, she now embraces the challenge.
“At first, I was really nervous, but doing hands-on research makes sure I know my material inside and out,” she said. “Now, presenting gives me confidence. It shows me that I truly understand my work.”
Nhi dedicates 10-15 hours a week to lab work, honing her problem-solving skills and attention to detail. She credits strong faculty mentorship as a crucial part of her research journey.
“It’s important to find a professor whose approach clicks with your personality,” Nhi said. “Dr. Lyden has been incredibly supportive, he even drove to the state Capitol for Research in the Rotunda. Wherever I present, he’s there to support me.”
Nhi encourages other students to take advantage of research opportunities at UW-River Falls, where undergraduate students take part in research opportunities typically reserved for graduate students at larger universities.
“UW-River Falls is a real gem,” Nhi said. “The experiences I’ve had here have truly shaped me, and I feel so much more confident in the person I’ve become.”
Looking ahead, Nhi is weighing her future career options, considering both medical school and graduate research programs. She is particularly interested in stem cell biology, cancer biology or cell biology research.
“This experience has helped me see my future more clearly,” she said. “No matter what path I choose, my time at UWRF has given me the tools I need to succeed.”