Can you tell us a bit about your project at MedImmune?
My project at MedImmune was to develop a method to probe protein interactions using chemical cross-linking and mass spectrometry.
How were you able to apply the knowledge or skills from your internship to your work at Johns Hopkins?
I learned how to work in a team in an industrial setting. When I received my job offer, the hiring manager told me that previous experience in the industry made me stand out from the pool of applicants who only had academia experience.
How else have you been able to use the knowledge and skills you gained through your internship?
I had never worked with antibodies before and knew very little about the immune system. Working on this project exposed me to a lot of new science that I had not encountered before and gave me a better appreciation of antibody biochemistry/biophysics, which will be helpful in working with antibodies in the future.
How did the internship impact your motivation in your lab at Hopkins?
After years in the lab, working in the industry, even for 3 months, reminded me of my ultimate goal and inspired me to finish my graduate work.
One purpose of the internship is to help you build a professional network. How have you been able to use this network since you completed your internship?
I now have a lot more connections in the biopharmaceutical industry and know at least one person in almost all of the big companies in the DC area.
What advice would you give to a graduate student or trainee who was considering an internship at MedImmune?
Work hard and meet people in numerous departments (i.e. outside of your department) in the company. In case there are jobs open in other parts of the company, you will know someone in that department as well. Also, listen, be organized and proactive, and have genuine interest in the project and the science.