By Nicole Abittan, Science and Technology Editor
Nicole Abittan (NA): Hi Tania, thank you for meeting with me today! Let’s start with getting to know you.
Tania Kiesel (TK): Hi Nicole, thank you for interviewing me! My name is Tania, and I am currently a sophomore in SCW. This is my second semester living on campus. I am majoring in Biology and hope to one day become an OB-GYN.
NA: How did you become involved in this research?
TK: I wanted to do research over the summer, so I emailed YU professors who were planning on having labs over the summer. Dr. Vigodner responded and gave me the opportunity to work in her lab.
NA: What did Dr. Vigodner’s lab study?
TK: The research was about the Regulation of Testicular Sertoli Cells by SUMOylation. The male partner is responsible for infertility in 50% of USA infertile couples. We worked on understanding the causes of male infertility. We studied how one protein can affect the process of spermatogenesis (the cycle of sperm formation). If this protein is reduced, male infertility can be regulated.
NA: Did you encounter any obstacles while working in the lab?
TK: No, I did not have any obstacles. Everyone was very patient and helped me understand every process we did.
NA: What was your specific role in the lab?
TK: I did many different things, including subculturing, gel protocol, GA treatment, and visibility analysis.
NA: Thank you again Tania for sharing your important and interesting research with us. I’m so glad that you had an enjoyable and productive summer. Do you have any closing advice for other students?
TK: Yes, doing research in a lab is an amazing opportunity. As a pre-med student, I encourage every student to get involved in research when they have the chance to.