James Evans

• SOAR Position: Member; Alumni
• Major: Biology
• Faculty Mentor(s): Dr. April Weissmiller

Current Focus: Molecular Mechanisms of Oncogenesis in Pediatric Cancers

Additional Interests: Bioinformatics, Biostatistics

Project Description

My current roles in research span across multiple projects, but are all necessary to highlight the means in which tumorigenesis occurs at a molecular levels by investigating interactions between proteins, nucleic acids, transcription factors, etc.. I have worked on multiple projects that converge on the ideology that SWI/SNF, a chromatin remodeling complex, plays a critical role in recruiting transcription factors and proteins necessary for transcription. We utilize basic lab techniques e.g., western blotting, cell counting, cell culturing, and genomic assays e.g., ATAC-SEQ, CUT&RUN, RNA-SEQ.

Why does this topic interest you?

When I originally started this work I was afraid I would not have an interest; however, now every step I take in this field makes me more excited to come back and do another experiment. I guess I am enamored with the feeling that I am making real change in the field of biological research and now I have worked on cancer enough through MTSU and an REU that I know this is the topic I belong in for a career.

What are your professional aspirations?

While a specific career does not come with my professional aspirations I know I want to manage a laboratory of my own whether that be in an academic or industry setting.

Do you have any advice for future researchers?

Just do it. I know you are probable nervous or unaware of what the next step is going to be. Yeah for the next few steps you are going to slightly unaware of what to do, but this is where building a mentorship is important, someone who has walked a similar path to yourself is going to be invaluable.

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