More Than Science: Finding Confidence and Inspiration in Zürich

This summer, I had the incredible opportunity to participate in the Biology Research Abroad: Vistas Open! (BRAVO!) program through the University of Arizona at the University Hospital of Zürich in Switzerland. From May through August, I worked in the laboratory of Professor Thorsten Hornemann, where I studied atypical sphingolipids associated with hereditary sensory and autonomic neuropathy type 1 (HSAN1). Sphingolipids are important signaling molecules, but genetic mutations can disrupt their normal production and create neurotoxic lipids. My research focused on understanding how specific mutations affect this process and how treatments may influence the production of these lipids.

Throughout the summer, I contributed to several clinical and cell-based projects. I analyzed plasma samples from patients before and after treatments by performing extractions. I also investigated other mutations using patient-derived cells and genetically modified cells. While much of my work was preliminary, it was fascinating to be at the forefront of these incredible projects. Learning different analysis techniques and being in contact with doctors and patients dealing with these diseases on a daily basis helped shift my perspective when conducting my experiments. When it comes to health and wellness versus research and innovation, there tends to be an invisible wall between researchers trying to understand the clinical applications of their results and doctors striving to apply the latest innovative treatments. It felt different to work with cells that had been modified to represent a patient’s disease, and it caused me to think differently about the importance of what researchers offer to the world. My results are nothing to brag about, but the idea that a patient was able to gain greater insight into their health and well-being thanks to the lab work of an undergraduate student blows my mind. It demonstrates how important the work we do truly is.

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Working in an international laboratory taught me much more than new research techniques. My lab included researchers from many different countries and backgrounds, yet we were able to connect through science, humor, and a shared desire to help patients. Living abroad also challenged me personally. Arriving in a new country where I did not know anyone was intimidating, and there were moments when I felt anxious and isolated. Over time, however, I learned to explore unfamiliar places, build friendships, and become comfortable with independence. Outside the laboratory, I traveled throughout Switzerland, hiked in the Alps, visited places such as Oeschinensee, Zermatt, and the Stoos Ridge, and experienced cultures that were very different from the small rural Arizona community where I grew up.

The BRAVO! program strengthened my desire to pursue an MD/PhD program. It showed me how lab work can help gain greater insight into rare diseases, evaluate potential treatments, and ultimately improve patients’ lives. I am deeply grateful to BRAVO!, the University of Arizona, Professor Hornemann, my mentors, and everyone who made this experience possible. Although the summer ended, the lessons and relationships I gained will continue to shape both my career and the person I hope to become.