Lab Techniques and Analytical Skills
Undergraduate research in the Lamichhane Lab nurtured Darla Forester’s growth as a student and a scientist.
Darla Forester was first drawn to the sciences because she was amazed that there is more to the world than meets the eyes. “The idea that numerous physiological processes are occurring within our bodies to keep us operational is incredibly fascinating,” she said.
At the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, she found the opportunities and support to pursue her interests while earning a bachelor’s degree in biological sciences with a concentration in biochemistry and cellular and molecular biology.
When she began as an undergraduate research assistant in Associate Professor Rajan Lamichhane’s biochemistry and biophysical laboratory, she knew little about the application of lab techniques. “As I continued to learn and practice these skills in an environment that encouraged me, I have gained confidence in the work I do,” Forester said
Her work involves protein purification of G proteins to better understand the structural components of GPCR (G-protein coupled receptors). “When I performed the protein purification protocol on my own for the first time and the target protein was obtained, I was extremely proud of the progress I had made,” she said.
As an undergraduate research assistant she sees the direct application of her BCMB studies.
“Often the information taught in my classes overlaps with the research we are completing; this allows me to either understand the reasoning behind the laboratory techniques we use or be able to connect the information to real world uses,” she said. “Additionally, the lab I work with performs weekly meetings and analyzes recent studies relating to our area of focus. This has improved my analytical skills and exposed me to information I would not have otherwise come across.”
“My time in the lab has made me not only a better student but a better scientist as well,” said Forester, who is continuing to work in the lab during her senior year.
Off campus, after her second year at UT she worked as a health care intern at the Cherokee Indian Hospital Authority. “This summer gave me insight into the impact health care professionals have not only on their individual patients but on the community,” Forester said. “This experience inspired me to continue my journey in the medical field and shaped my choices in the coming years at the University of Tennessee.”
In UT’s Academic Success Center she found additional support through supplemental instructors who focus on a specific course and peer learning assistants for individual help. Forester also served as a supplemental instructor for Biochemistry 1, an experience that benefitted her too. “It allowed me to think about this course in a different light as well as help students grow their knowledge,” she said.