Since I started
working with Doctor van Hoek (at the MVH lab) in the Science and Technology
campus, I have been exposed to many inspirational and driven individuals.
Working alongside masters and PhD students, I have already learned so much
about a real microbiology laboratory. From working with bacteria to autoclaving
equipment, I have realized that working in a lab is fun, exciting, fast-paced,
and most importantly, serious!
Currently, I am
working with various bacteria and yeast found in our oral microflora. Streptococcus mutans and Candida
albicans are microorganisms found in the oral cavity, which are responsible
for common diseases, such as carries (cavities). The goal of this project is to
determine how these microorganisms grow and how we can inhibit them! In the MVH
lab, I am the only person who is working on this project with the assistance of
my managers/mentors, Stephanie and Dr. van Hoek.
Though working in the lab is very fast-paced,
working with microorganisms can be very slow. Since the majority of my work
relies on growing bacteria and yeast, sometimes it may take two to five days to
achieve results. If the results are not desirable, the experimental procedure
may be modified to acquire the desired results. On a weekly base, I will do
many things, including growing bacteria, sterilizing equipment, and testing
antibiotic resistance against bacterial growth! After many trials this week, I
tested multiple different growth media for my yeast and determined what the
best media is to grow it on!
Since my long-term goal is to enter dental school
and practice as a dentist and health care provider, I think this project will
help me achieve a greater understanding of the oral microflora, which is a key
component of having a healthy mouth! Thus, having this knowledge will help me
be a better dentist. With further knowledge and outstanding research,
groundbreaking results may be found, which may benefit the medical community.
My ultimate goal is to help move science forward and allow the community to
achieve better health!
