April Park

Coming into Penn, the idea of research was very daunting to me. Having no prior experience in any forms of research, I did not know what to expect when searching for labs at Penn. Now, nearly two years later, I can confidently say that I know what research is and what it entails. Penn offers a vast array of research opportunities, and I believe that there truly is something for everyone! 

I have had the opportunity to engage in both wet lab and clinical research. Currently, at the Lee Lab, I am working on a project focusing on the role of bitter taste receptors in the brain and their potential therapeutic effects on cancer. Last summer, through the PURM grant, I worked as a clinical research assistant in the radiation oncology department investigating the effect of radiation treatment on insomnia and fatigue.

I know how crucial good mentorship is, both inside and outside of lab, and how overwhelming the process of finding the right lab may be. If you have any questions or just want to chat, feel free to reach out—I’d be happy to share my experiences and help you on your research journey!

• Undergraduate Researcher in Lee Lab, Perelman School of Medicine Department of Otorhinolaryngology (January 2023 - Present)
• Penn Undergraduate Research Mentorship (PURM) (Summer 2023)
• Clinical Research Assistant in the Department of Radiation Oncology, Penn Medicine (May 2023 - Present)
• Poster Presentation at CURF Fall Research Expo (2023)
• Chronobiology and Sleep Institute Research Retreat (2023)