Dr. Tovah Day, Northeastern University presents a seminar entitled "Unraveling G Quadruplex DNA: Cellular Mechanisms Regulating Its Impact on Signaling and Genomic Instability."
https://cos.northeastern.edu/people/tovah-day/
Dr. Katie Lotterhos, Northeastern University presents a seminar entitled “Inversions as concentrators of a polygenic architecture: the evolution of migratory body shape in a marine fish.”
Joseph Inigo is a lecturer in the MS Biotechnology program at Northeastern University. He received his PhD in Pharmacology and Cancer Therapeutics from the University at Buffalo, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center. His research studies included identification of mitochondrial targets for cancer therapy, small molecule drug discovery, and development of genetically engineered mouse models of cancer.
Joseph has experience as a scientist in biotech, developing non-viral gene therapy for hematologic diseases. He also has experience in Business Development, conducting competitive intelligence research to guide pipeline strategy.
A Northeastern University researcher has identified a way to target two of the deadliest cancer types, melanoma and triple negative breast cancer, with chemotherapy drugs but without the harms associated with chemotherapy.
Both cancers are typically resistant to chemotherapy, says Fleury Augustin Nsole Biteghe, a lecturer in biotechnology, chemistry and chemical biology. But by attaching a light-sensitive drug to a protein called MTf — which appears abundantly in both cancers — and bathing the drug-infused protein in near-infrared light, cancer cells die.
Using antibodies to target cancer proteins is typically performed by using multiple drugs at once, Nsole Biteghe says. But this approach stimulates the immune system so much that it can end up attacking healthy body tissues, he says.
“The antibody is like a key and we know what the lock is,” he says.
Read more at Northeastern Global News.
Photo by Matthew Modoono/Northeastern University
Since the Human Genome Project first produced the genetic instructions for a human being by sequencing DNA 22 years ago, scientists have been focused on roughly 2% of the genome producing proteins.
But what about the rest?
Northeastern University professor Sudhakaran Prabakaran says this “dark genome” is not only actively making “dark proteins,” but its secrets could provide the future for the pharmaceutical industry and modern medicine.
“If biology and evolution are known to keep things simple and efficient, if it is just using 1% or so of the genome, why would it keep the remaining 98%? There must be some reasons for it,” says Prabakaran, associate professor of biotechnology and chemistry and chemical biology at Northeastern. “Now we are discovering those reasons.”
Prabakaran is the author of the upcoming book “Eclipsed Horizons: Unveiling the Dark Genome,” an account of the scientific investigations into the so-called “junk” or non-coding DNA of the human genome. He has also recently reviewed the scientific literature in this field in new research.
Read more at Northeastern Global News.
Photo by Alyssa Stone/Northeastern University
What inspired you to pursue your current field of study/research?
Initially, I aspired to become an oncologist, but circumstances led me to a different path. My deep-rooted interest in life sciences and my passion for advancing biological research drew me to biotechnology. The field offers limitless potential in understanding diseases, developing therapeutics, and innovating healthcare solutions, making it a perfect fit for me.
Have you participated in any co-op or study-abroad programs? How was that experience?
Yes, I am currently completing my co-op as a Quality Control Operations at BlueRock Therapeutics.
The experience has been exceptional, allowing me to apply my academic knowledge in a real-world setting while gaining hands-on expertise in quality control, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency within a biopharmaceutical company.
Sreenithi Giri Gogulan ’25, Biotechnology
The role aligns well with my interests and educational background, making this journey truly rewarding.
What kind of extracurricular activities are you involved in?
I am currently learning Bharatanatyam, a classical Indian dance form that demands discipline, grace, and dedication. Additionally, I am an avid reader and enjoy watching movies in my free time, which helps me unwind and stay creatively inspired.
What has been the highlight of your experience in COS so far?
Some of my most fulfilling experiences include securing a co-op at BlueRock Therapeutics, serving as a Graduate Student Ambassador for the College of Science, and mentoring peers as a Peer Mentor. These roles have allowed me to contribute meaningfully to my academic community while refining my leadership and interpersonal skills.
Have you had any professors or mentors who really made an impact on you?
Absolutely. Several mentors have played a pivotal role in my academic and professional journey:
Aswin Sundarakrishnan, who provided invaluable guidance during my co-op interview process.
Carol Hannam, a constant source of support and motivation for students, fostering both academic and professional growth.
Tricia DeYoung, who continuously encourages and challenges students to reach their full potential.
Their mentorship has significantly shaped my confidence and career aspirations.
Where do you see your field of study/research taking you? (i.e., dream job, next steps such as a graduate program)
I haven’t fully figured out my next steps yet, and I am completely okay with that. However, I do know that I want to build a career in Research & Development within the biotechnology or pharmaceutical manufacturing industry.
What kind of impact do you hope to make after you leave Northeastern?
I want to represent Northeastern’s values of student development and empowerment. My journey is a testament to the idea that growth happens at the right time, and with confidence, hard work, and adaptability, success is inevitable. I hope to inspire future students to embrace challenges, trust the process, and remain committed to self-improvement.
What advice would you give students interested in pursuing a degree in science?
Science is an ever-evolving field that thrives on curiosity, resilience, and innovation. It is not just about learning facts; it is about problem-solving, critical thinking, and pushing the boundaries of knowledge. Research, in particular, is a highly creative process that challenges you to think beyond conventional frameworks. I encourage students to embrace uncertainty, enjoy the process of discovery, and remain passionate about their pursuit of knowledge.
What inspired you to pursue your current field of study/research?
When I think about what inspired me to dive into biotechnology, it’s really a mix of my personal fascination with the field and the incredible opportunities I saw, especially here in the US and at Northeastern University.
I’ve always been captivated by biotech. There’s something amazing about using biological processes to solve real-world problems. Whether it’s developing new treatments for diseases or finding sustainable solutions for industries, biotech offers this perfect blend of scientific discovery and practical application that really speaks to me.
Choosing to study in the US was a no-brainer. The ecosystem here is unmatched – top-notch universities, cutting-edge research centers, and a thriving biotech industry. It’s an environment where innovation is not just encouraged, it’s expected.
But what really sealed the deal for me was Northeastern University.
Northeastern’s approach to education and research in biotech is exactly what I was looking for. The co-op program is a game-changer. It gives me the chance to get real-world experience in leading biotech companies while I’m still studying. That’s invaluable.
Saran Bhattacharyya ’25, Biotechnology
And it’s not just about the co-op. Northeastern’s facilities are top-notch, which is crucial for the kind of research I want to do. They also have this great interdisciplinary approach, which I think is essential in biotech. You can’t work in a bubble in this field.
What I also love about Northeastern is their focus on entrepreneurship. Biotech is such a dynamic field, and having that entrepreneurial mindset is super important. Plus, their global network is incredible. It opens up so many doors, both for my time at university and for my future career.
All of this – my passion for biotech, the opportunities in the US, and everything Northeastern offers – it all came together to inspire my choice. I’m excited about the possibility of making real contributions to the field, maybe even discoveries that could make a difference in people’s lives. That’s what keeps me going. It’s what gets me excited to hit the lab or dive into a new research paper. This field is always evolving, and I can’t wait to be part of shaping its future.
Have you participated in any co-op or study-abroad programs? How was that experience?
I actually just landed a co-op position that I’m really excited about! I’m working as a QC/QA at Quality CDMO in Texas. It’s been an eye-opening experience so far, to say the least.
The cool thing about this role is that I’m getting to dip my toes into a bit of everything. One day I’m in the lab, the next I’m on the manufacturing floor, and then I’m diving into document control. It’s giving me a really well-rounded view of how a company operates.
I’m getting hands-on experience with some pretty advanced equipment too. I’ve been working with RP-HPLC and FTIR, which is awesome because I’d only read about these in textbooks before. It’s one thing to study the theory, but actually operating these machines is a whole different ball game.
They’ve also got me learning some new software systems. At first, it was a bit overwhelming, but I’m starting to get the hang of it. It’s definitely a valuable skill to add to my resume.
What I really love about this co-op is that it’s with a startup. The energy here is different – everyone’s wearing multiple hats and there’s this sense of building something from the ground up. It’s been both a learning experience and an opportunity to contribute meaningfully. I feel like my ideas are actually heard and considered, which is pretty cool for a co-op student.
The flip side of working at a startup is that there’s a lot of responsibility. I’ve had to really step up and hold myself accountable. There’s no handholding here – if I mess up, it could have real consequences. It’s a bit scary sometimes, but it’s also pushing me to grow faster than I ever have before.
Overall, this co-op has been an incredible experience so far. It’s giving me a real taste of what a career in biotech looks like, and I’m loving every minute of it. I can already tell that what I’m learning here is going to be invaluable when I get back to my studies and eventually start my career.
What kind of extracurricular activities are you involved in?
I’ve been involved in a variety of extracurricular activities that have really added to my overall experience. One of the highlights was being part of the dance group at NU Sanskriti. As a passionate dancer, it was such a joy to express myself through dance and connect with others who shared the same enthusiasm. It gave me a great outlet to unwind and stay creative.
In my downtime, I also loved playing pool and table tennis. It was a fun way to take breaks, meet new people, and keep things light amidst all the hustle of academics and work.
But what truly stands out for me is my role as the Vice President of External Affairs at Graduate Student Government. That position was an incredible opportunity to step into leadership and take on responsibilities that pushed me out of my comfort zone. I got to represent students, collaborate with different teams, and explore areas of work I hadn’t been exposed to before. It taught me so much about communication, teamwork, and what it means to serve as a leader.
Altogether, these activities have been such an important part of my journey, helping me grow both personally and professionally while making some amazing memories along the way.
What has been the highlight of your experience in COS so far?
The College of Science has been such incredible for me. I think what really stands out is how they’ve structured the courses. It’s not your typical textbook-heavy, lecture-only kind of deal. They’ve really put thought into keeping everything up to date with what’s happening in the industry right now.
The assignments have been a breath of fresh air too. They’re not just about regurgitating information – they actually push us to think creatively and apply what we’re learning to real-world scenarios. It’s challenging, sure, but in the best way possible. I feel like I’m actually building skills that’ll be useful once I’m out there in the job market.
But the absolute highlight for me has to be the mandatory co-op program. That’s been a total eye-opener. Getting to step out of the classroom and into a real work environment, putting everything we’ve learned into practice – it’s invaluable. Plus, it’s giving me a taste of different career paths and helping me figure out what I really want to do after graduation.
So yeah, I’d say the College of Science has really nailed it with their approach. It’s not just about cramming information into our heads – it’s about preparing us for the real world, and I’m loving every bit of it.
Have you had any professors or mentors who really made an impact on you?
Absolutely! I’ve been really fortunate to have a few professors who’ve made a huge impact on me during my time here.
First off, there’s Dr. Christa Dhimo. She taught “The Biotech Enterprise” course, and she really opened my eyes to the business side of biotech. Her real-world experience in the industry was invaluable. She has this way of breaking down complex concepts and making them relatable. I remember leaving her classes feeling like I’d just gained insider knowledge about how biotech companies actually operate.
Then there’s Dr. Angie Cornwell, who taught “Cutting-Edge Applications in Biotechnology.” Her class was mind-blowing. She’s so passionate about the latest advancements in the field, and it’s infectious. She really pushed us to think critically about how these new technologies could be applied. I found myself getting excited about possibilities I’d never even considered before.
And I can’t forget Professor Alexander Susienka, my co-op advisor. He’s been an absolute game-changer for me. His guidance in helping me navigate the co-op process has been invaluable. He really took the time to understand my interests and goals, and he’s been instrumental in helping me find opportunities that align with what I want to do in my career.
These three have really shaped my experience here. They’ve each brought something unique to the table – industry insights, cutting-edge knowledge, and practical career guidance. I feel like I’ve grown so much as a result of their mentorship.
Where do you see your field of study/research taking you? (i.e., dream job, next steps such as a graduate program)
When I think about where I’m headed, I get pretty excited. I’ve got this vision of becoming both a solid scientist and a strong leader in the biotech industry. It’s like, I want to have my hands in the lab work, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, but also be in a position where I can guide teams and make big-picture decisions.
It’s a pretty ambitious goal, but what drives me is that I want to be that person who can bridge the gap between the technical side of things and the business aspects. Someone who can speak the language of science but also understand the market dynamics and what it takes to bring a product from the lab to the people who need it.
Right now, I’m thinking my next step might be to get some more hands-on experience in the industry after I graduate. Maybe find a role in R&D at a biotech company, where I can really dive deep into the science. But I’m also keeping my options open for grad school down the line. I feel like a PhD or an MBA, or maybe both, could really set me up for that leadership role I’m aiming for.
The dream is that I’d love to be heading up a research division at a cutting-edge biotech firm, or maybe even starting my own company someday. I want to be at the forefront of developing new therapies or technologies that can make a real difference in people’s lives.
It’s a long road ahead, for sure. But every class I take, every lab experiment I run, every project I work on – it’s all building towards that goal. I’m just excited to see where this journey takes me!
What kind of impact do you hope to make after you leave Northeastern?
When I think about the impact I want to make after leaving Northeastern, it’s all about taking everything I’ve learned and experienced here and using it to make a real difference in the biotech world.
I mean, this place has given me so much – from the hands-on experience in my co-op at Quality CDMO, to the creative assignments in my courses, to the leadership skills I gained as VP of External Affairs at GSG. Not to mention the incredible mentors like Dr. Dhimo, Dr. Cornwell, and Professor Susienka who’ve shaped my understanding of the field.
My goal is to take all of this and become a leader who can bridge the gap between cutting-edge science and practical business applications in biotech. I want to be part of developing new therapies or technologies that can improve people’s lives. Maybe that means heading up a research division, or who knows, even starting my own company someday.
No matter where I end up, I’ll always have a soft spot for Northeastern. This place has been such a big part of my journey. I’d love to find ways to give back whenever I can – maybe guest lecturing, mentoring students, or collaborating on research projects. It’d be awesome to help future students have the same kind of transformative experience I’ve had here.
Ultimately, I want my time at Northeastern to be just the beginning of a career where I can make a lasting impact in biotech. And if I can inspire a few more students to pursue this field along the way, even better. This place has given me so much, and I’m excited to pay it forward.
What advice would you give students interested in pursuing a degree in science?
Alright, so any student is thinking about diving into a science degree, here’s my experience:
First off, everyone should get ready to roll up their sleeves and get hands-on. Theory is great, but nothing beats practical experience. Like, my co-op at Quality CDMO in Texas is a total game-changer. I got to play with advanced tech like RP-HPLC and FTIR, stuff I’d only read about before. So, everyone should look for programs that offer internships or co-ops. They’re gold.
Next, no one shall just stick to their textbooks. Get involved in extracurriculars. I danced with NU Sanskriti and even served as VP of External Affairs at GSG. These experiences taught me leadership skills you just can’t get in a lab.
Speaking of labs, we should make the most of them. They’re where the real learning happens. And no one should be afraid to get creative with assignments. The best courses I’ve had challenged me to think outside the box.
Finding good mentors are equally important as that have been incredible in shaping my path. They bring real-world insights that textbooks just can’t match. Staying current with what’s happening in the industry. Science moves fast, especially in fields like biotech. The courses that kept us up to date with market trends were the most valuable.
Finally, we should be open to where our degree might take us. I came in thinking I’d be a pure scientist, but now I’m aiming to blend science with leadership in the biotech world. Lastly, I would suggest to enjoy the ride. Science can be tough, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. When we’re working on something that could make a real difference in the world, it makes all the hard work worth it.
Is there anything you’d like to add?
In Northeastern and in COS, there have definitely been ups and downs – late nights cramming for exams, stressing over lab reports, moments where I questioned if I was cut out for this. But looking back, I wouldn’t change a thing.
I’m just incredibly thankful for this whole experience. The opportunities I’ve had, the people I’ve met, the skills I’ve gained – it’s all been pretty amazing. Even the tough times taught me something valuable.
So yeah, I guess if there’s anything I’d like to add, it’s just a big thank you. To the professors who pushed me, the classmates who supported me, and the whole Northeastern community. This journey has shaped me in ways I never expected, and I’m excited to see where it takes me next.
It’s been challenging, sure, but also incredibly rewarding. And I’m just grateful to have been part of it all.
What inspired you to pursue your current field of study/research?
I completed my bachelor’s degree in biology at Northeastern. It was my first ever co-op at Affinia Therapeutics that inspired to pursue a master’s degree in biotechnology through the PlusOne program.
Have you participated in any co-op or study-abroad programs? How was that experience?
I have participated in three co-op/internship programs.
My first co-op was at Affinia Therapeutics in Waltham, where I worked on adeno-associated virus (AAV) gene therapies. I worked in the Histopathology department, where I studied the biodistribution of disease markers. I absolutely loved it, and it started my love for the field of pathology.
Maya Kanj ’25, Biotechnology
My second co-op was at the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Maine, where I worked as an autopsy technician/Medical Examiner Assistant. I absolutely loved this position, and it was exciting to work in forensic pathology. I assisted in over 50 autopsies and felt immense reward in helping families gain closure regarding the cause of death of their loved ones. This inspired me to apply to medical school to become a forensic pathologist.
My final and current co-op is at Sanofi in Cambridge. I work in the Biomarkers and Clinical Bioanalysis department, where I support clinical trials for lifesaving medications and help assess the efficacy of these drugs. I have really enjoyed this experience, and it is safe to say that Northeastern helped me find my niche at the intersection of pathology, biomarkers, and translational medicine.
What kind of extracurricular activities are you involved in?
I am part of ResLife as a Resident Engagement Assistant (REA) on campus, which I have been doing for technically 11 semesters now! I also founded and am the president of the Graduate Student Fitness Club, a club designed to bring together and educate grad students on weightlifting, cardio, nutrition, and mental wellness. Outside of these things, I love volunteering in my free time. I volunteer for Mass General Hospital in the Emergency Department, for Red Cross to transport blood to hospitals, and for Ethos, an organization at which I visit lonely elderly clients and provide company and comfort! To de-stress, I enjoy cooking, reading, and weightlifting/bodybuilding, which I have been doing for two years now.
What has been the highlight of your experience in COS so far?
The highlight of my experience in COS has been being able to meet such amazing, like-minded, driven peers. I am so passionate about science, so having other people to “geek out” with is a blessing!
Have you had any professors or mentors who really made an impact on you?
Every professor I have had has made a TREMENDOUS impact on me, and it is safe to say I was very close and engaged with all of them. Dr. Anne Van de Ven and Dr. Nikolaos Soukos made the last semester of my program especially memorable. Dr. Van de Ven fostered my love for Nanomedicine and inspired me to declare a Graduate Certificate in Nanomedicine, while Dr. Soukos’s Medical Microbiology class truly changed my life and fostered my love for pathology, the process of medical diagnosis, anatomy, and medicine as a whole.
The person who has impacted me most is Dr. Andreia Ionescu, with whom I have been working in the lab for over three years now. Dr. Ionescu is a wonderful, brilliant PI and individual who has given me opportunities and skills that paved the way for the co-ops I landed. Without Dr. Ionescu and the members of the Ionescu Lab, I would not be the sharp scientist that I am today. The welcoming, lively, and ambitious environment of our lab truly set me up for success, and I will deeply miss being a part of this team.
Where do you see your field of study/research taking you?
My next step is to apply to medical school and specialize in forensic pathology. My love for the autopsy suite has not faded after all these years, so I hope I can be the Medical Examiner directing those autopsies someday. I would also really love to teach at the same time as being a doctor. I would love to come back to Northeastern someday to lecture some classes in my free time, since I am a Double Husky after all, and will always keep that Husky pride!
What kind of impact do you hope to make after you leave Northeastern?
After I leave Northeastern, I hope I can leave my unique perspective everywhere I go. My experience in autopsy had me in the face of death for a long time, which really taught me to cherish every day on this earth and to cherish my loved ones.
My experience in biotech has taught me that disease does not discriminate, so it is important to take care of yourself, know your risk factors, and do what is in your power to live a healthy life. My passion for science appears everywhere I go, simply because there is science in everything.
I hope that I can channel this passion to save people from life-threatening diseases, get closure in autopsies for families affected by these diseases, and educate others on the importance of staying healthy, active, and appreciative of every opportunity we have. Every day is a new day to live and a new start, and I hope that I can touch people with this perspective.
What advice would you give students interested in pursuing a degree in science?
To anyone interested in pursuing science, I truly think you are in the right place. You will hear a lot about job security and good pay, which is generally true, but the true value is the knowledge itself that you will possess. My education changed my life. Science itself is such a rewarding field to be in – you gain knowledge that allows you to understand YOUR body, others’ bodies, and the natural world/phenomena around you.
Studying science has taught me so much about health in general, which is why I have become so passionate about weightlifting to keep healthy and about pursuing medicine to fight disease. My experiences have put me at the intersection of life and death, and it really makes you address the bigger questions in life and become incredibly well-rounded and developed as a human being. If you pursue science, just know you are heading in a difficult direction, but it will help you unlock your true, full potential and purpose.
What inspired you to pursue your current field of study/research?
I was inspired to pursue an advanced degree in biotechnology to connect ideas across categories.
Have you participated in any co-op or study-abroad programs? How was that experience?
As a co-op at Biogen, I joined the Asset Development and Portfolio Management team as a program manager for biotechnology manufacturing operations. Leading cross-functional teams with support from my mentors was a transformative experience that I look forward to bringing to my future role.
What kind of extracurricular activities are you involved in?
I mentor biotech-minded future and current students as a Graduate Student Ambassador in the College of Science.
What has been the highlight of your experience in COS so far?
Leading my classmates as CEO of a mock-biotech startup in The Biotech Enterprise class was a rewarding experience. Not only did my startup build a successful pitch to investors for early-stage funding, but we were also united by our shared goal of deepening our scientific knowledge to address a critical patient need.
Have you had any professors or mentors who really made an impact on you?
Industry-experienced professors are pivotal in helping me achieve my early career goals. Professor Odeal Jacob for The Biotech Enterprise and Professor Diaa Alabed for Experimental Design and Biostatistics are both dynamic teachers and gave many opportunities for active class involvement.
Where do you see your field of study/research taking you?
I’m excited about bringing my passion for cross-functional leadership to biotechnology portfolio operations. Creating and managing programs using ‘big picture’ thinking is a desirable skill for many program and project manager roles.
Luke Smith ’25, Biotechnology
What kind of impact do you hope to make after you leave Northeastern?
After Northeastern, I hope to become an industry thought leader who creates a positive influence for people, teams, and whole organizations.
What advice would you give students interested in pursuing a degree in science?
My advice is to approach challenging scientific problems with openness and find at least one aspect that energizes you about solving them.
What inspired you to pursue your current field of study/research?
During my bachelor’s in chemistry, I was fascinated by how chemical processes drive biological functions, but I wanted to apply that knowledge to something more impactful—something that could directly improve human health. That curiosity led me to biotechnology, where science meets innovation to develop real-world solutions for diseases.
My interest deepened when I was introduced to immunology and the potential of T-cell therapy in fighting cancer. Wanting to be at the forefront of such breakthroughs, I chose to pursue my master’s at Northeastern, where I could gain hands-on experience in cutting-edge research.
Have you participated in any co-op or study-abroad programs? How was that experience?
I have participated in a total of three co-ops—two during my undergraduate studies and one during my master’s. Each experience was incredibly valuable, offering hands-on exposure that I could never have gained in a classroom.
Working in real-world industry settings allowed me to see firsthand how different biotechnology companies operate, how their infrastructures are structured, and how scientists approach and solve complex challenges. Beyond technical skills, these experiences shaped my mindset, teaching me to think critically and adapt to the fast-paced world of biotech.
What kind of extracurricular activities are you involved in?
I was a tutor for chemistry classes in the College of Engineering, which allowed me to help other students strengthen their understanding of the subject while reinforcing my own knowledge. I was also a member of Phi Sigma Rho, a sorority that supports women in STEM. During my undergraduate years, I was part of Professor Vasiliki Lykourinou’s mPIRE (Metallopeptide Interdisciplinary Research) group.
What has been the highlight of your experience in COS so far?
The highlight of my experience in COS so far has been my current co-op at Visterra. Now that I am also pursuing my master’s, I’ve realized just how much I’ve grown—I feel more than competent in my abilities and have gained a deeper trust in myself as a researcher. Working on neurodegenerative diseases, a field I am truly passionate about, has been incredibly fulfilling.
Have you had any professors or mentors who really made an impact on you?
Professor Alexander Ivanov inspired my passion for protein targeting through his research in protein chemistry, giving me hands-on experience in proteomics. Professor Angie Cornwell shaped my ability to design experiments and assays using molecular biology techniques. Professor Sunny Zhou deepened my understanding of protein pharmaceuticals, and his research on the blood-brain barrier led me to pursue a co-op at Visterra. Professor Diaa Alabed changed my perspective on statistics, helping me see its clear connection to experimental science.
Where do you see your field of study/research taking you?
I see myself building a career in biopharmaceutical research, focusing on protein-based therapeutics. Through my experiences in protein chemistry, molecular biology, and experimental design, I’ve developed a strong passion for targeted drug development. My next step is likely a graduate program, where I can dive deeper into protein engineering and drug delivery. Long term, I’d love to work in biotech or pharma, helping develop new therapies for diseases that still lack effective treatments.
What kind of impact do you hope to make after you leave Northeastern?
I hope to make an impact by fostering collaboration and mentorship in whatever space I’m in. Northeastern has taught me the value of learning from others, taking risks, and staying curious, and I want to carry that forward.
Izel Eler ’25, MS Biotechnology
What advice would you give students interested in pursuing a degree in science?
I’d tell students interested in science to stay curious and embrace challenges. Science isn’t just about memorizing facts—it’s about asking questions, solving problems, and learning from failure. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes; that’s where the best learning happens. Seek out hands-on experiences like research, co-ops, or internships early on—they’ll help you connect what you learn in class to the real world. Also, find mentors who inspire you and build a strong support network.
OAKLAND, Calif. — When it blooms, red algae emits toxic byproducts, including aerosols, that kill shellfish and other marine life. People who eat shellfish that have been exposed can be at risk too.
Northeastern University graduate student Amelia Langan’s research helped a Bay Area startup develop a device that could prevent toxic algae from forming dead zones in ocean waters.
During her third and final co-op, Langan worked on a small team researching the use of different light wavelengths to detect algae blooms before they can do harm.
Read more from Northeastern Global News.
Photo by Alyssa Stone/Northeastern University