On April 14, Butler University will host the Undergraduate Research Conference (URC), an event where undergraduate students can showcase their exceptional research to the community. About 300 undergraduate students from 13 institutions come to Butler’s campus to showcase their work, and our own students share their research efforts amongst others in their industries. Junior College of Liberal Arts and Sciences student Allie Goss shares how participating in the URC allows her to stand out when applying for internships, careers, and graduate schools.

Allie Goss
Junior
Biochemistry Major and Biology Minor

What is your research about?
In the biochemistry lab, I study serine hydrolase enzymes that are involved in tuberculosis infections. Throughout my research project, I have focused on identifying which specific enzymes are responsible for tuberculosis infections so that they can be targeted in future treatment methods for this infection.

Why did you want to participate in the Undergraduate Research Conference (URC)?
Throughout my time at Butler, I participated in various research conferences. I loved sharing my research with others and, in return, listening to others share their research with me. I believe it is an extremely beneficial experience to participate in these conferences because I can learn from others’ research, see what they’re passionate about, and see them be successful.

How are Butler faculty involved in your research project?
All of the research I have done at Butler has been with my advisor Dr. Jeremy Johnson—a Biochemistry professor. Over the past few years he has offered guidance, training, and support for me to work in the lab as I complete the research project. I am extremely grateful for all of the support I have received from Dr. Johnson while doing undergraduate research here at Butler and consider him an incredible mentor. Additionally, there are other faculty members who have supported me in my research. Dr. Macbeth, Dr. Hoops, Dr. Spears, and Dr. Esteb have offered me great advice from their areas of expertise.

How is participation in undergraduate research preparing you for your future career? 
After graduation, my goal is to earn my doctorate in either molecular biology or immunology to continue research in biomedical sciences before becoming a professor. Being able to do undergraduate research has allowed me to confirm my passion for and interest in research/lab work and is also providing me with valuable lab skills that will be beneficial to me when applying to graduate programs.

Why should Butler students get involved in undergraduate research?
There are so many reasons why Butler students should get involved in undergraduate research. In addition to providing you with a TON of great lab skills, it teaches independence and time-management as well as showing you what it would be like to work in a lab (if you have any interest in doing this in the future). It is also a really great experience that will set you apart from other applicants when applying for internships, careers, and graduate/medical schools since it shows your dedication to the field.