Demystifying Undergraduate Research With Two GS Student Researchers

At the Undergraduate Research Symposium on Friday, October 25 more than 40 GSers presented their research to the public in poster format. The ability for students to participate in research at Columbia is an invaluable opportunity and yet one that often feels intimidating to pursue.

We talked to GSers—Vien Nguyen ‘26GS, a neuroscience and behavior major, and Johntae Jeffries ’25GS, a biophysics major—ahead of their presentations to learn more about their research, how they became involved in these opportunities, and any advice they would give to students looking to pursue similar opportunities in the future.

What is the research you will be presenting at the symposium and what drew you towards this project?

Johntae Jeffries: I will be presenting on my research done in the Sahin Lab, where I developed and tested a novel technology that allows imaging of topological changes in mouse embryonic fibroblasts in vivo. I was drawn to the field of biophysics research after taking Introductory Biology and learning about how eukaryotic cells work to maintain structural integrity via degradation and polymerization of actin filaments. Though there seemed to be a thorough understanding of the proteins involved, when I asked, "If a cell were big enough, what would it feel like to hold a cell in my hand? What about a cancerous cell?” I couldn’t find a concrete answer. I became curious if the biophysical properties of cells could help distinguish typical cells from cancerous ones. Soon after, I found the Sahin Lab where I learned about their work with atomic force microscopy in creating cell surface maps that could identify their biophysical properties.

Vien Nguyen: I will be presenting my research on the use of eye-tracking technology to study how students solve chemistry-based questions. This project intrigued me because it combines my passion for neuroscience and education with cutting-edge technology. By understanding where students focus their attention while problem-solving, we can gain insights into cognitive processes that lead to better learning outcomes.

Why did you wish to partake in a research opportunity and how has it impacted your GS experience?

Jeffries: In partaking in this research opportunity, I had two major goals. The first was to learn more about the scientific method, and how new information is generated. I wanted to make myself a better facilitator of scientific knowledge so I could better serve the scientific community in my own future practice in medicine. Second, having not done research before, I wanted to demystify the idea that research is “too complicated” or “best suited for those who can dedicate their lives to the topic”. I wanted to break the barrier of what makes research so scary to enter for undergraduates; generating ideas and testing them sans the feeling of inadequacy or ignorance.

Nguyen: I wanted to engage in research because I saw it as an opportunity to apply classroom knowledge in a practical setting, while also contributing to the broader scientific community. The experience has profoundly enriched my time at GS by allowing me to connect with faculty and fellow researchers and broaden my skills in data analysis and experiment design. It’s been an incredible learning process.

What part of the research process was the most challenging and what was the most rewarding?

Jeffries: I found the most challenging part to be reading up on years of established knowledge in a field, and more specifically, finding where there are gaps/holes in knowledge. Also, terminology can be very specific to a certain field and can evolve, which can be frustrating to wrap your mind around. The most rewarding part, personally, would have to be analyzing results. Although it may not happen, seeing evidence for your hypothesis unravel itself within the data is a feeling like no other: self-gratifying and motivating.

Nguyen: The most challenging aspect of the research was designing an experiment that captured useful, interpretable data, while also ensuring it aligned with our research goals. On the other hand, the most rewarding part has been seeing the results come together and realizing that our work could make a real impact in educational strategies, helping students to learn more efficiently.

How do you feel this experience will enhance your future career and education goals moving forward?

Jeffries: This experience was very transformative for me, in that I know a lot more now about how projects are motivated, what questions to ask, who to ask them to, and what resources I have at my disposal to optimize the output of my projects. For any future projects I take on, which I plan to do in the upcoming spring semester, I will be a better critical thinker and ready to design projects independently.

Nguyen: This experience has been invaluable in solidifying my career goals in the medical field. Research has taught me how to approach problems systematically and think critically, both of which are essential skills for my future career in medicine. It’s also inspired me to continue integrating technology and neuroscience into my work, potentially in clinical research or patient care.

What is your advice for other GS students interested in research opportunities?

Jeffries: My advice for GS students wanting to take on research is the following:

1. Talk to your professors and TAs about the research you want to get into.

2. Take into consideration the time that is required to understand your field of interest.

3. Before starting a project, make sure you motivate your research by asking what the possible results could tell us about the world and why that is useful.

4. Dismantle the feelings of feeling “too dumb” to do research or being inexperienced.

5. Be in contact with your lab mentor or PI (principal investigator) about your project. Don't be afraid to ask questions.

Nguyen: My advice is to not be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and explore areas that might be new or unfamiliar to you. Reach out to professors, express your interests, and be proactive in seeking opportunities. Research is an excellent way to deepen your understanding of your field, and the skills you gain will be valuable no matter where your career takes you.