Nicole Chung
What’s remarkable about Penn’s research environment is the sheer variety of opportunities within a single field. Even within endocrinology and nutrition, there are numerous labs that broaden your perspective, equip you with diverse skillsets, and help you discover your true interests. During my freshman year, I worked in the Hayes Lab, which explores the neuroendocrinology of energy balance using rodent models. I loved how neuroscience, nutrition, endocrinology, and psychiatry intersected in our projects. I developed strong technical skills in rat and mouse husbandry, injections, immunohistochemistry, and brain imaging, while contributing to research on pharmacological treatments for obesity. In my sophomore year, I transitioned into more clinically oriented research. In the Rader Lab, I assist with clinical trials evaluating investigational drugs for hypertriglyceridemia, while building meaningful relationships with patients. In the McCormack Lab, I study the effects of NAD+ supplements and exercise in patients with Friedreich’s Ataxia, focusing on statistical analysis using RStudio.
All of my research has revolved around energy balance, endocrinology, and nutrition—yet each lab offered a unique lens. These experiences taught me the value of stepping outside my comfort zone to grow both intellectually and personally. Outside of research, I’m in the Brain Exercise Initiative, Alternative Protein Project and Club Cross Country. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions about research or Penn in general.
- Undergraduate research assistant at the McCormack Lab | Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes (2024-present)
- Clinical research assistant at the Rader Lab | Division of Translational medicine and Human Genetics (2024-present)
- Undergraduate research assistant at the Hayes Lab | neuroendocrinology of energy balance and control (2023-2024)
- Recipient of the PURM Award (2024)
- CURF Fall Research Expo (2024)
