From a young age, my curiosity about science has shaped who I am today. I’ve always been fascinated by how things work, especially in science labs, which sparked my passion for learning. This curiosity has grown into a love for medicine and healthcare, where there’s always something new to discover. It drives me to explore new ideas, ask questions, and think creatively in everything I do. Whether in school, creating content, or everyday life, I bring this curiosity with me, pushing myself to always learn and understand more.
RESEARCH:
Doing scientific research on breast cancer and spending time in the lab really showed how curious I am. Being in the lab wasn’t just about doing experiments—it was about exploring complicated topics, asking questions, and trying to learn more. I was always eager to dig deeper and find new information that could make a difference. My curiosity pushed me to keep learning, especially in healthcare, where there’s always something new to discover.
In the Lab
UCSF Helen Diller Comprehensive Cancer Center:
- Research Intern
- I was a part of a project that involved the study of an important oncogene, HER2, and how this oncogene signals
- To do this, we developed a model to measure the dimerization of this receptor under the microscope
- We made mutants of HER2 and HER3 to measure if that affects dimerization of the receptor- structure function studies- to figure out which part of HER2 is important for dimerization
- Developed technical skills such as how to perform western blots
ReCode Therapeutics
Clinical Operations Intern
- I assisted on a clinical trial for Cystic Fibrosis
- It showed me the importance of attention to detail, ethical responsibility, and collaboration in advancing treatments
- This experience reinforced my respect for the rigorous process behind clinical trials and highlighted how research can lead to real, life-changing impacts for patients
- I learned about the drug development process
- I created internal newsletters and patient flow checklists for the team
- I had to think critically, solve complex problems, and stay detail-oriented, all while navigating the fast-paced, innovative environment of biotech
Stanford Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital
Pharmaceutical Intern
- I shadowed doctors on their rounds in the ICU, CVICU, NICU, etc.
- I assisted with medication preparation, verifying doses, organizing patient records, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations
- Deepened my understanding of hospital regulations and pharmaceutical care in a hospital setting
- Gained hands on experience in a clinical environment
LILA MOTAMEDI 