Durant High School graduate Suparsh Parikh could have spent his summer reading, traveling or just enjoying a break from classes. But when he was selected as a Fleming Scholar and offered the opportunity to do hands-on biomedical research for eight weeks, he jumped at the chance.
Since June 2, Parikh has worked at OMRF in Oklahoma City with Gary Gorbsky, Ph.D., studying the role of a certain protein in mitosis, the process of cell division.
Parikh, a sophomore bioengineering major at the University of Oklahoma, is among 11 Oklahoma students selected for the prestigious program.
“I have been surprised by how collaborative the scientific process actually is,” Parikh said. “Rather than being the individual, secluded process so advertised in media, the research process requires collaboration and teamwork to achieve the major goals of science.”
In addition to working in the lab, Fleming Scholars attend lectures by OMRF scientists to learn about various research projects and science-related career options. They attend social events and spend time together as a group outside the lab. At the end of the summer, scholars make formal presentations outlining their individual research results to OMRF’s scientists.
OMRF’s Fleming Scholar Program has served as a stepping stone for hundreds of Oklahoma students seeking careers in the sciences. Since 1956, more than 500 gifted science students have received a close-up, hands-on research experience as scholars. Scores of Fleming Scholars have gone on to establish medical and research careers, including two OMRF researchers, Rodger McEver, M.D., and Judith James, M.D., Ph.D., who got their start in the program.
“These students learn a lot here and are exposed to new concepts, but we learn from them, too,” said Carlisa Curry, Fleming Scholar Program director. “They bring enthusiasm and fresh perspectives into OMRF’s labs. It’s clear through what we see in these young people that the future for research is bright.”
For Parikh, this summer has opened new doors. “My time at OMRF has changed the way I view my future goals. I’ve found the research process to be so exciting and engaging that I am now strongly considering the idea of applying to M.D./Ph.D. programs or going on to obtain a graduate degree in biochemistry.”
