MESA student explores biomedical research with UCI’s summer program
This summer, five Cerritos College students participated in UCI's Biomedical Research
Immersive Training Experience (BRITE), where they conducted research and presented
their findings.
The five-day program included sessions led by professors who discussed their research in neurology, engineering, biomedical sciences, and environmental sciences. Participants collaborated with assigned mentors who assisted with their research and presentations.
Student Narjis Saab’s team studied how certain synthetic materials can create tiny reaction chambers that hold enzymes and their helper molecules. The idea behind this research is to make biological reactions more efficient, which could lead to producing valuable substances using enzymes. They created a special material through a process called RAFT polymerization and used advanced imaging techniques to observe these molecular clusters. This work helps us better understand how to harness enzymes for practical applications.
“My key takeaway from this summer research program was to gain knowledge in the field of biomedical engineering and get hands-on experience in research,” said Narjis.
She plans to transfer in 2028-2029, with her dream school being UC Berkeley and its nanotechnology and bioengineering program. Narjis wants to develop new machines and tools to help doctors and nurses treat patients and improve diagnostics. “I want to collaborate closely with healthcare professionals to identify their needs and gaps in our society,” she said.