My First Week as a CMOP Intern

 Week one of the CMOP internship started off slow, but I learned many things that I find will help me along the way.  On the first day, the other interns and I arrived at 9 a.m. to receive orientation.  I was introduced to  the other interns and learned more about CMOP.  After being oriented with the program, we all branched off, where I was able to meet Vena, my mentor.  Mariya, who also works in the lab I will be working in, gave another quick tour of the building  and lab.  She was very detailed in familiarizing me with all the equipment I will be working with in the lab.  After the tours, Vena spoke to me more about the project that I will be working on during my internship.  Even though it was still quite not clear to me, I was able to pick up more on the details of the project.  

On Tuesday, I was taught, by Vena, how to carry out the PCR process, which includes adding DNA, primers and a template to a small tube then inserting it into the PCR machine for three hours.  After the three hours, she showed me how to purify the DNA and test to make sure DNA is present.  At 3:30, we attended a lab meeting which included other labs.  The meeting consisted of a PowerPoint presentation with the topic of  ship worms from the Philippines.  After the meeting, I was finally officially introduced to Holly.  

On Wednesday morning, Vena and I made the trip to Camas, Washington where we will be working in a Sharp laboratory every Monday and Tuesday.  Upon arrival, we attended safety training where we were taught all the rules of safety for Sharp.  After training was complete, I was introduced to Andrey, who I will be working under while doing research at Sharp.  Vena and I were issued ID cards there also, and even got free breakfast due to a seminar that was going on.  Andrey showed us the lab and taught me, through a presentation, more about the project which gave me an even clearer understanding of what I am expected to do for research.  I found it very exciting that I will be able to work in an industry-based lab!

On Thursday,  Vena went through PCR once again with me then showed me how to carry out gel electrophoresis, which is what we do with unpurified DNA to make sure DNA is present.  At 4:00, we had a meeting with Holly, in which she was informed about the status of research and what we had been doing all week.  She also talked more about the project and told me more in depth what exactly was being done.  Due to this talk, I now have a clear understanding of my project and am eager to begin research.  

Friday, on the other hand, was a more laid back day.  I attended the Brown Bag Seminar, with the other interns, where Paul Tratnyek discussed with us the “Ethical Issues in Research.”  I found it interesting to see different ways that research can be fabricated, falsified, and/or plagiarized.  I think this seminar was very informative and enlightening because it opened my eyes to a different aspect.  

All-in-all, this week was very informative and I am excited to be a CMOP intern!