"Throughout the course of my internship, I characterized the ability of different therapeutic molecules, known as PROTACs, to degrade cancer-causing proteins. At the end of every week, I submitted PowerPoint slides with data tables and graphs summarizing my results, which were presented at the Experimental Therapeutics department meetings. I learned new experimental techniques, including gel electrophoresis and blocking, as well as measures of statistical analysis to measure protein degradation. Going back to MIT, I not only have enhanced experimental skills but also a global perspective and a supportive scientific community. At first, the language barrier made it difficult to join in on conversations at work during lunch. By the end of the internship, I was able to understand and enter conversations."
Jada's Story
Jada Li interned with CNIO, a company that focuses on discovering, developing, and testing the efficacies of targeted cancer therapies. As a part of the biology section, Jada focused working on performing biological assays in vitro.
At CNIO, I was provided the resources and platform to learn the ins and outs of a career in cancer research. Throughout the internship, I gained experience in reading scientific literature, wet-lab experimentation, statistical analysis, and forming presentations. This opportunity has provided me insight into what being a full-time scientist entails and has confirmed my interest in cancer research. It is truly an unforgettable experience. I learned so much about myself and about other societies. I plan to return to Spain to continue working.Jada Li '25
Major & Class Year
Biological Engineering ' 25
Location
Madrid, Spain
MISTI Program
Internship
MISTI Host
National Cancer Research Center (CNIO)
