Patients, healthcare professionals, and researchers are facing countless global health challenges stemming from a lack of resources, awareness, and answers. Our panelists participated in internships focused on improving public health outcomes, often for those in marginalized communities who face systemic barriers and stigma along with their conditions. From the micro to the macro-world, our work examines these challenges at every level. Starting "small", the panel will first explore the role of the p53 tumor suppressor gene through the use of human cells and the model organism Drosophila Melanogaster. The following panelist will share their experience preparing to study a common sexually transmitted infection, chlamydia, in a murine model. The next speaker will discuss using a rat model to investigate negative cognitive bias as a key symptom in major depressive disorders. The panel will conclude with assisting psychological assessments of neurodivergent children in a hospital setting. All these experiences, from in-vitro disease research to direct patient outreach, serve to address pressing health issues and help shape future careers in scientific innovation and healthcare.

Moderator: Craig Woodard, Christianna Smith Professor of Biological Sciences

Presenters:

• Hridita Armin Alim '26 Psychology
• Syeda Asha '27 Neuroscience & Behaviour/Anthropology/Law, Public Policy, & Human Rights Nexus
• Guatpmi Melekote '26 Biochemistry
• MJ Pinkes '26 Biological Sciences