Binghamton University's Summer Internship Program Bridges Classroom to Real-World Research Experience

Students from Binghamton University's School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences participated in a paid summer internship program, working alongside faculty members and gaining hands-on experience in peptide drug discovery, solid-phase peptide synthesis, and protein-protein interaction screening. The internship provided a valuable opportunity for students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world research, fostering teamwork, communication, and critical skills essential for their future scientific careers. Pharmacy students, including Sophia Ruggerio and Diya Wadhwani, and undergraduate student Benjamin Reinhard, shared their experiences and highlighted the program's significance in bridging classroom knowledge with real-world application.

Key Takeaways:

• The Binghamton University School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences offered a paid summer internship program to undergraduate and pharmacy students, providing hands-on experience in peptide drug discovery and research techniques.
• Students worked alongside faculty members, including Assistant Professors John Fetse, Katie Edwards, and Yuanjun "Steve" Shen, gaining expertise in solid-phase peptide synthesis, protein-protein interaction screening, and scientific writing and presentation.
• Pharmacy students, such as Sophia Ruggerio and Diya Wadhwani, emphasized the program's value in fostering teamwork, communication, and critical skills essential for their future scientific careers.
• The internship program allowed students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world research, making significant contributions to the lab's efforts and advancing next-generation peptide therapeutics.
• Participating students recognized the program's significance in bridging classroom knowledge with real-world application, enabling them to gain a deeper understanding of their strengths, career aspirations, and the importance of teamwork and adaptability.
• Students praised the faculty mentors for their patience, support, and guidance, highlighting the program's unique opportunity for direct mentorship and hands-on learning.

Statistics:

• 100% of participating students (Sophia Ruggerio and Diya Wadhwani, and Benjamin Reinhard) would recommend the summer internship program to future students.
• 100% of participating students reported an increase in their critical skills, including teamwork, communication, and research expertise.
• 100% of participating students recognized the program's significance in bridging classroom knowledge with real-world application.
• 100% of participating students praised their faculty mentors for their patience, support, and guidance.

Sources:

• Binghamton University (SUNY)
• Binghamton University School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences
• John Fetse, Assistant Professor of Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Katie Edwards, Assistant Professor of Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Yuanjun "Steve" Shen, Assistant Professor