Undergraduate researchers gain hands-on experience at Mitchell Cancer Institute
Posted on July 29, 2026 by Marketing and Communications
Two undergraduate students spent the summer exploring cancer and biomedical research through the USA Health Mitchell Cancer Institute (MCI) Undergraduate Summer Research Program, an intensive eight-week experience that provides aspiring scientists with hands-on laboratory research under the guidance of faculty mentors.
Supported administratively by the Office of Research, Education, and Training (ORET), the program helps students build scientific, analytical and professional skills while contributing to ongoing cancer research.
Ashley Ballard
Ashley Ballard, mentored by Chandrani Sarkar, Ph.D., examined mechanisms that may contribute to colon cancer progression through her research project, “Investigating a Novel Paracrine Axis in Colon Cancer: In Vitro Progress.”
Ballard said the most valuable part of participating in the program was presenting her work to her peers. “Preparing my presentation challenged me to think critically about the story I wanted to tell — from the background and methods to the significance of the results,” she said. “It reminded me of the importance of the work I was doing and helped me see the bigger picture behind my project. Seeing all of my hard work come together and sharing findings that could contribute to future research made the experience especially rewarding.”
The experience also gave her a better understanding of the complexity of cancer research. “My project focused on one small aspect of colon cancer,” she said, “but I learned that even small discoveries can contribute to a broader understanding of the disease. Research is about building knowledge that can lead to meaningful advances over time.”
The program marked Ballard’s first research experience. “It gave me insight into what conducting research is really like on a day-to-day basis,” she said. “It helped me think about my future educational and career goals and encouraged me to consider opportunities I may not have explored otherwise.”
Sarkar praised Ballard’s growth over the course of the summer. "Ashley demonstrated exceptional intellectual curiosity and a strong commitment to learning throughout the summer research program,” Sarkar said. “Although this was her first laboratory research experience, I was amazed by how quickly she adapted to new concepts and research techniques. She worked independently while remaining receptive to feedback and collaborated effectively with others in the lab.”
Sarkar added, “It was truly rewarding to witness her transformation into a confident, independent researcher. I am confident she will continue to engage with and make meaningful contributions to the scientific community in the future."
Alex Sherman
Alex Sherman, mentored by Ash Prakash, Ph.D., explored the structure and function of a DNA repair enzyme in his project, “Understanding a Structurally Dynamic DNA Repair Enzyme,” with potential implications for future therapeutic development.
Sherman said the relationships he built throughout the summer made the experience especially meaningful. “Dr. Prakash and everyone in her lab were incredibly supportive and made the entire experience rewarding,” he said
He also gained a new appreciation for the research process. “I was also surprised by how much tinkering is involved in research,” Sherman said. “Watching experiments evolve by adjusting variables showed me that science isn't always straightforward, and it helped me realize that I could truly see myself working in a research lab as a career.”
Prakash said Sherman embraced every opportunity to learn. “Alex brought curiosity, energy, and a genuine willingness to learn each day,” she said. “What impressed me most was not only how hard he worked on his project, but also how thoughtfully he asked questions about science, medicine, and his future career path.”
Prakash added, “Mentoring students like Alex is incredibly rewarding because you get to watch them gain confidence, develop independence, and begin to see themselves as part of the scientific community.”
The program concluded with research presentations at MCI, where Ballard and Sherman shared their findings with faculty, judges and peers. Ballard earned first place in the research competition for her presentation.
The students also presented scientific posters at the Whiddon College of Medicine Medical Student Summer Research Day alongside medical student researchers.
Looking back on the experience, both students encouraged future participants to embrace the opportunity.
“When you first start, you won't know everything, and that’s completely OK,” Ballard said. “Research is a process. Learn as much as you can from those around you, ask questions, and be open to every opportunity to grow.”
Sherman added, “Take a deep dive into your lab's research. The more you understand the science behind the experiments, the more you'll enjoy the research experience.”
The Mitchell Cancer Institute Undergraduate Summer Research Program will begin accepting applications for the next cohort in February 2027, with selection decisions expected in March. Undergraduate students interested in gaining hands-on research experience are encouraged to apply. Information will be available on the Basic Medical Sciences website.