Jenny Zhang
Plant and Microbial Biology
Advisor: Professor Bob Buchanan
I learned to extract the different classes of proteins from seeds and perform one and two-dimensional electrophoresis. In my molecular toxicology class, I was taught about toxicoproteomics where two-dimensional electrophoresis was applied. The concept that I learned in class and the practical experience in the lab complemented each other and helped me to better understand the utility of running the 2-D gel. I acquired critical thinking skills and learned to be patient. Research does not simply involve performing the experiments; instead, the most important part in research is being able to interpret the results critically. Being patient is very important when doing research, too.
"...the most important part in research is being able to interpret the results critically."
Jenny Rui-Xuan Zhang
Research: The second Zhang award, the first HUGS (Helping Undergraduate Students), went to Jenny Zhang. She worked with Professor Bob Buchanan on a project to understand the long-standing mystery of how 1200-year-old sacred lotus seeds are able to grow into normal plants. Her work may lead to a better understanding of their ancient role in Chinese medicine.