Jacy Fang is one of the eight BCA semifinalists of the Regeneron Student Talent Search, formerly known as “Intel.” The Chronicle was lucky enough to catch up with her and find out more about her research, motivations, and reflections on the experience.

For more information on the  Regeneron Student Talent Search, and links to interviews with seven of our other semifinalists, read “Regeneron Science Talent Search: BCA Boasts 8 Semifinalists.”

Can you explain your research?

My research involved immunotherapy, (taking blood from a patient) genetically engineering the cells in the lab, and then re-infusing those cells back into the patient to kill cancer. I focused on creating cells that would survive longer and continue to kill the cancer cells. This was done by reversing differentiation— the natural progression of cells. Attached is my abstract.

How did you get the idea for your project? Is it personally important to you?

When I was younger, I was always enchanted by how a small pill could reduce a fever or alleviate a cough. However, my motivation for pursuing medicine stems from the early years that I spent with my grandfather, only to be cut short when he was taken away by cancer. To conduct research is to be at the forefront of new discoveries and to express my ideas to ensure that others do not have to endure the abhorrent tragedy of losing a loved one.

What was the biggest challenge you faced while doing research?

There were often times during my research when I found results that contradicted my hypothesis. I began investigating the “why’s” and began dissecting every factor in my experiment. And when I dug a bit further, I found a discovery that was born of frustration.

How did it feel to win the Regeneron award?

When I read my name on the page, it was an amazing feeling. Though I was confident in my research, I find myself taking pride in the fact that others are recognizing the importance of my research, and how the field of immunotherapy is growing and earning more of the recognition it deserves.  

What did you learn / take away from the Regeneron Student Talent Search experience?

The application process was very long with many essays, especially questions, about my inspiration for this project and I found myself reflecting fondly on my time in the lab. I realized that being in the lab and discovering is where I strive to be.