Dr. Stephanie Walker, Biochemistry

Breast Cancer Researcher

Dr. Stephanie Walker is studying the organization of cells and cell growth as it relates to tumors as part of her breast cancer research, and she is involving her Curry College Biochemistry students in the process.

"First, students review my prior research and reflect on what they found most interesting, and then they analyze the data to help determine the experiments I do next," Dr. Walker says.

All Biochemistry majors at Curry College participate in research-integrated coursework and complete independent research projects before they graduate. Beyond foundational content, Walker offers ample time to practice in an undergraduate laboratory setting, which she calls essential for students' future professional success.

"The skill set you acquire as a trained scientist includes critical thinking, problem-solving, reading literature, and writing."

Many of Walker's students are interested in pursuing a research career, going to medical or dental school, or entering a biotechnology or corporate setting. Studying at a college in close proximity to Boston provides students opportunities to attend seminars, go on field trips, and even study at offsite research labs at neighboring institutions, where they interact with graduate students and post-doctoral scholars.

"It is a different environment that gives them a fresh, real-world perspective on research, and a clearer idea of whether research post-grad is something they want to pursue," Dr. Walker says.

In Fall 2019, Curry students will have a new place to conduct research - the Science and Integrated Learning Commons, a 36,500-square-foot, state-of-the-art facility currently being built on campus.

"The new facility will provide faculty and students with enhanced research spaces."

Walker says it is an exciting time of growth in the Biochemistry program.

"We're approaching curriculum in a creative, innovative, and focused way, with an emphasis on research and providing students with the tools they need to be successful beyond Curry."