West Point Cadet gains hands-on research experience, mentorship at USAMRIID
Meno, a biology major entering her sophomore year, interned in USAMRIID’s Viral Immunology Branch; an experience that allowed her to explore potential career paths in medicine, microbiology and Army service.
“I’m currently deciding whether I want to apply to medical school or for a master’s degree in microbiology after graduation,” said Meno.
Glenn Parker, an Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE) research fellow assigned to the Viral Immunology Branch, initially mentored Meno focusing on learning a variety of laboratory methods, including cell culture, Western blots, Bradford assays, and the Magpix® multiplex platform—a scientific instrument that enables scientists to measure multiple proteins in a single reaction.
“Avery and I worked very closely the first week building her confidence and independence as she assisted on projects,” said Parker.
Meno supported a biosurveillance project examining evidence of exposure to a broad panel of pathogens helping researchers better understand potential disease-spillover risks like Sin Nombre virus – a rare but severe rodent-borne virus that causes Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS) in North America, said Parker.
She quickly adapted to the pace and met all expectations while performing work on multiple projects, said Catalina Florez, a contractor and principal investigator with the Henry M. Jackson Foundation, assigned to the Viral Immunology Branch.
“Her work on the surveillance project was extremely successful,” said Florez, “She contributed to our research in a meaningful way despite her short time here.”
Meno said the timeframe created a hurdle she was able to overcome as she worked to learn and apply a wide range of laboratory methods.
“One of my greatest challenges interning was mastering the program’s wide range of skills and techniques in a short time, but by learning from my mentors’ methods I believe I made a tremendous impact on the projects,” said Meno.
Internships bring many rewards like communication development, military service lessons, and career development, which Meno attributes to her mentors’ expertise.
“My mentors have been one of the most valuable parts of the internship by creating a patient and supportive learning environment,” said Meno.
Meno left positive advice for other cadets who may intern at USAMRIID.
“Take every opportunity when presented, speak up when you have questions, and don’t be hesitant to learn something new; you won’t regret it,” said Meno.
West Point cadets interested in summer internships at USAMRIID should contact the program coordinators within their academic departments.
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