Introduction
This summer, Sophie Chin, a senior at The Cambridge School, embarked on an extraordinary journey of scientific discovery. Sophie was one of just 13 high school students selected from a competitive pool of 540 applicants for the prestigious Heithoff-Brody High School Summer Scholars internship at the Dixon Lab of the renowned Salk Institute. Over the course of eight weeks, Sophie delved into groundbreaking research on gene expression and epigenetic changes, leaving a lasting mark with her innovative approach to studying DNA folding.
Researching DNA Folding and Its Implications | Salk Institute
Sophie’s work in the Dixon Lab focused on DNA folding and the dangers that arise when folding errors occur, such as the development of diseases like cancer. She created an enzyme that tracks a protein mediating DNA loops—a breakthrough in the field. Her enzyme is light-inducible and activates under blue light to methylate DNA and deactivates when the light turns off. This innovative approach to studying DNA loops has never been done before inside a living cell.
Overcoming Challenges and Celebrating Success | Salk Institute
Despite initial challenges, including six weeks of minimal results, Sophie’s perseverance paid off in a dramatic fashion. Just 30 minutes before her final presentation to donors and parents, she verified the enzyme’s effectiveness. Drawing on her liberal arts background at The Cambridge School, Sophie quickly updated her presentation and delivered a compelling explanation of her findings, demonstrating an ability to communicate complex scientific ideas with clarity and confidence. Her mentor, Dr. Tessa Popay, praised Sophie’s resilience and problem-solving skills, noting that she excelled under pressure. Dr. Popay remarked, “When things didn’t go to plan, Sophie would know what to do next to try and fix the problem, while showing a lot of resilience and a willingness to keep trying.”
A Lasting Impact and Future Opportunities | Salk Institute
The Dixon Lab expects to include Sophie’s contributions in a future publication, further cementing the significance of her work. Dr. Popay emphasized how Sophie’s autonomy during the internship set her apart. She was not only able to follow instructions but also understood the broader context of her research, allowing her to perform tasks independently and think critically about the next steps. “Sophie’s inquisitiveness, resilience, and work ethic will be incredibly valuable to her future,” said Dr. Popay. As a testament to her exceptional contributions, the Dixon Lab has invited Sophie back in the spring, outside of the scholarship program—a rare and notable honor. The lab appreciated her presence and work so much that they extended this unique opportunity to her, recognizing her as an asset to their team.
Conclusion
Sophie’s experience at the Salk Institute’s Dixon Lab marks a significant milestone in her scientific journey. Her innovative work with DNA folding, combined with her communication skills and perseverance, has set her apart as a rising star in molecular biology. This experience not only highlights Sophie’s potential but also serves as a testament to the value of hands-on research opportunities for young scientists poised to change the world.
Resources | Salk Institute
To learn more about the Dixon Lab and Salk Institute click here.