Natural Sciences: Audrey Chung '26

Major(s) and minor(s)Chung headshot

B.S. in Biology 

Minor in Ethics

Pronouns

She/Her

Hometown

Victor, NY

Areas of interest/focus in research

Hematology/Oncology:

  • One of the projects I have worked on was focused on analyzing cells of the tumor microenvironment (TME) in various indolent B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphomas. My job was to measure and analyze the presence of different surface markers on various types of white blood cells in splenectomy specimens from splenic lymphoma patients. The goal was to uncover the characteristics of TME cells to promote the development of non-invasive diagnostic procedures and precision therapies.
  • I am currently working with a human leukemia monocytic cell line called THP-1, specifically inducing differentiation of these cells into macrophages and assessing their ability to engage in antibody-dependent cellular phagocytosis (ADCP), a process in which a cell engulfs antibody-coated targets. Live cell time-lapse video microscopy is used to visualize ADCP capacity after different cytokine concentrations are introduced.

Translational Women's Health:

  • I am currently doing quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), a technique used to quantify RNA, on specimens from patients with endometriosis. This is one aspect of a project regarding transient receptor potential (TRP) channels, specifically TRP1 and its implications in endometriosis pain signaling.

Labs / departments / offsite programs where research was conducted

Zent and Chu Lab - Wilmot Cancer Institute

Falsetta Lab - URMC

About me...

Hi! My name is Audrey, and I’m a junior from Victor, NY studying biology at the ÂÒÂ×Ç¿¼é. I’ve been working as a student intern in the Zent and Chu Lab since my freshman year, and I’ve grown very interested in the field of hematology. I recently joined the Falsetta Lab and am exploring my interests in women's health research, as well. I’m incredibly grateful for all of the opportunities my research positions have provided me, and I hope to help other students find the best opportunities for themselves as a Research Ambassador.

How has your experience as a researcher influenced your career objectives?

While I still plan on pursuing medical school, my research experience has inspired me to stay involved in research beyond my undergraduate years. I think the interface between clinical research and medical practice is essential for discovering and providing the best patient care possible, and I hope to pursue a career path that allows me to work in both disciplines.

Campus organizations, programs, activities, clubs, awards/distinctions

Robert I. Weed Hematology Summer Fellowship (2024)

Rigby Wile Prize (2023)

Schwartz Discover Grant (2023)

Hospital Elder Life Program Volunteer at Highland Hospital

Best Buddies

American Red Cross

Journal of Undergraduate Research

Friends of Strong Volunteer - Gastroenterology at Sawgrass, Pediatric Imaging at Golisano Children’s Hospital, and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at URMC

ÂÒÂ×Ç¿¼é Symphony Orchestra (URSO)

Korean Student Union

Dean’s List (all semesters)

Fun Fact: when I'm not doing research you can usually find me...

Reading, going for a run, playing golf, or listening to music.

Areas where I may be particularly helpful

  • Contacting mentors and writing applications for new research positions
  • Writing applications for the Schwartz Discover Grant or other research grants
  • Preparing for presentations
  • Academic advice

What advice do you have for prospective or new researchers?

Getting started in research as an undergrad is a uniquely enriching experience. It’s important to find a field of study that you are genuinely passionate about, and it’s okay if you don’t know exactly what that is yet. One of the best parts about undergraduate research is exploring your interests and immersing yourself in unfamiliar topics. There are some challenges you will face, such as unexpected setbacks in a project or struggles with time management. However, as you learn to overcome them, you will develop essential skills and find profound fulfillment in growing significantly as a student researcher.

Email me at: achung17@u.rochester.edu