NJ Roc-Sennett ‘24

Field of study: Genetics and Molecular Biology

Why did you pursue this project?

I’ve been interested in genetics since middle school, specifically how they play a role in diseases. Lung cancer is one such illness that doesn’t have a clear cause — while a leading cause can be attributed to smoking, around 10% of cases are diagnosed in non-smokers. Many of my father’s relatives have passed away from lung cancer, and I wanted to find an explanation for that 10%. That’s what led me to my research project, which looked at the underlying molecular mechanisms of lung cancer. Our DNA is the universal blueprint, and so many secrets can be uncovered if we look hard enough. Past research has shown that certain lung cancer patients are resistant to one type of immunotherapy, but we don’t exactly know why or how this is the case. My project aimed to better understand what’s going on at the genetic level that could be contributing to this resistance.

I’m very passionate about STEM, and my favorite courses at Hackley have included chemistry and cellular biology (and ISRP of course!) Outside of the classroom, I play the electric guitar in multiple bands — I’ve been involved in almost every Hackley Coffeehouse since I first joined the school in 9th grade. I’m also on the varsity fencing and track and field teams. In my free time I enjoy hanging out with my friends and family, going to coffee shops, and reading books.

Somers Science Fair 2022 - 2nd Place Award in the Category of Behavioral Science
Westchester Science & Engineering Fair 2023 - Participant
Westchester Science & Engineering Fair 2024 - Momentive Women in Science Award (Cellular and Molecular Biology Category)
New York Science & Engineering Fair 2024 - Honorable Mention in the Category of Biomedical and Health Sciences