Two Hutchison Students Conduct Graduate-Level Research through St. Jude Program

Natalie Alexander ’25 and Stephanie Park ’25 spent 8 weeks working in pairs with a mentor to participate in graduate-level research projects, which they presented at a community exhibition at Rhodes College at the end of July.

Natalie worked in the Department of Hematology conducting sickle cell research, evaluating the relationship between genetics and the risk for pain and stroke in sickle cell disease patients. “The program provided me with the opportunity to learn about hematology through wet lab, statistical analysis, and global initiative experiences,” she said.

Stephanie worked in the Center for Bioimage Informatics in the Department of Neurobiology. Her research focused on comparing and identifying an algorithm that best enhances the retinal vasculature images, which will ultimately help early detection and analysis of various retinal diseases.

“By participating in the High School Research Immersion Program and interacting with people from different backgrounds, I was able to experience various fields of science and broaden my perspective,” Stephanie said. “It was interesting to see how things I learned at school were applied in real-life situations. AP Computer Science Principles and AP Biology were especially helpful in providing a good foundation for my research project.”

As part of the program, Natalie and Stephanie learned from weekly workshops surrounding the theme of becoming a scientist led by the program director Dr. Gwen Alexander. Topics included scientific identity, ethical responsibility, peer review, and navigating uncertainty and failure. They also had the opportunity to attend multiple seminar series where they learned about the different departments within St. Jude as well as several town halls led by the CEO of St.Jude.

“The highlight of my experience was being in an environment as uplifting and heartwarming as St. Jude with so many intellectuals from doctors to researchers to other staff members,” Natalie said. “I learned so much about my specific research area and people in general. The program gave me an even stronger appreciation for the work St. Jude does.”