For Katie Dick, research offers something few careers can: the opportunity to spend every day asking questions no one has answered before.

“There’s very, very few paths where you can make a career off learning and solving problems,” said Dick, a rising junior at East Tennessee State University studying biology and engineering. “Solving problems that have a direct impact on people’s quality of life, on health and disease – that’s really exciting.”

That passion earned Dick a place among the nation’s most promising undergraduate researchers as a Cech Fellow through the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s (HHMI) Summer Undergraduate Research Program.

The immersive program places undergraduate students in HHMI laboratories across the country, where they conduct hands-on research alongside scientists advancing the understanding of biology and human health.

This summer, Dick has been conducting research at Columbia University in the Aydogan Lab, studying one of biology's most fundamental processes: how cells divide.

Her work focuses on understanding the mechanisms that coordinate cell division, research that could ultimately deepen scientists' understanding of diseases such as cancer and improve approaches to wound healing and other conditions involving abnormal cell growth.

At ETSU, Dick conducts research in the laboratory of Dr. Anoop Arunagiri, assistant professor in the Department of Biological Sciences, where they study how protein misfolding contributes to diabetes.

Her research experience at ETSU, including opportunities to contribute to scientific publications and develop advanced laboratory skills, helped prepare her for the transition to one of the nation's premier research institutions.

"The scientific method is the same no matter where you go," Dick said. "ETSU prepared me to come here and hit the ground running. I wasn't just observing – I was able to contribute. I don't think I would have even known this opportunity existed, much less had the confidence to pursue it without the mentorship I've received."

Arunagiri said Dick's curiosity, determination and commitment to understanding the science behind every experiment made her an ideal candidate for the fellowship.

“From the time Katie joined our lab, it was clear she was passionate about research,” Arunagiri said. “She has continually challenged herself, contributed to publications and embraced every opportunity to learn.

“Seeing her succeed in a nationally competitive program like this is incredibly rewarding because it reflects both her dedication and the strong research foundation she built at ETSU.”

For Dick, the experience has strengthened not only her technical skills but also her confidence as an emerging scientist.

"I've learned so much, but the biggest thing I'm taking away is confidence," she said. "I came into a completely new research environment, learned new techniques and worked with people from different scientific backgrounds. It showed me that I can adapt, contribute, and solve problems wherever I go."

Throughout the summer, Dick also attended seminars led by internationally recognized researchers, explored emerging technologies such as CRISPR and stem cell research, and collaborated with scientists representing a wide range of specialties. The program will culminate on August 11 with a presentation by Dick on her research at the HHMI Janelia campus.

As the flagship institution of Appalachia, ETSU is committed to preparing students to lead through discovery, innovation and hands-on learning. At ETSU, undergraduate researchers have the opportunity to work alongside faculty mentors to tackle complex scientific questions while gaining the experience and confidence needed to pursue careers that improve lives in the region and beyond.

Dick hopes to continue pursuing a career in biological research, where she can continue asking difficult questions – and finding answers that make a difference.

"I've found where I belong," she said. "The more experience I gain, the more confident I become that this is what I want to spend my life doing."

Learn more about ETSU's commitment to supporting research at etsu.edu/trailblazers/.