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Kathryn Pietrosimone Only outstanding student researchers need apply. The criteria for the Undergraduate Research Fellowships, awarded annually by the American Society for Microbiology (ASM), are clearly defined – academic achievement, relevant career objectives, potential contributions to overall project outcome, personal motivation and previous research experience. Add to those requirements, “co-captain of the college swim club,” and you have described junior Kathryn Pietrosimone. Kathryn was awarded a highly-competitive ASM Undergraduate Research Fellowship this spring. The fellowship carries a $4,000 stipend, which will enable her to work in biology professor David Crowley’s lab for 10 weeks this summer. Specifically, the fellowship will support her research into the rate at which DNA damage is repaired in specific genes of a unique microorganism called Haloferax volcanii. This important work ultimately could have major implications for the treatment of certain types of skin cancer. "It’s a great honor to be recognized by the ASM and be given the opportunity to advance my research," Kathryn says. "Many members of the faculty support my research goals and they encouraged me to apply for the ASM research fellowship. The science department at Assumption is great. I have opportunities to do independent research that you wouldn’t find in a larger school. I have 20 or fewer people in my classes and I get to work directly with my professors.” Assumption’s small size and the close student/faculty interactions it encourages are just two of several factors that motivated Kathryn to apply. “I was captivated by the (Testa) Science Building when I toured the campus,” Kathryn says. “I looked at several schools, but didn’t see science facilities like that. I came to Assumption planning to go to medical school. Now I know I’d rather do research. Research is demanding and everything doesn’t go the right way all the time, but I like it.” Kathryn’s passion for research and its challenges has brought tremendous recognition to her – and to the College – through the ASM Undergraduate Research Fellowship. "Kathryn is a very talented and dedicated student and researcher,” Professor Crowley says. "She has the unique combination of drive and ambition to be awarded this (nationally) competitive fellowship grant.” When she’s not in the lab with Professor Crowley or in the pool with the swim club, Kathryn often can be found engaged in service and social justice activities as a member of the Campus Ministry Core Team. |
Class Year: 2008