Amaya Green is one of our outstanding undergraduate students studying biochemistry in the UNT College of Science. After spending her first year working in the PHAGES lab of Dr. Lee Hughes, this summer she had the opportunity to conduct research at the UNT Health Science Center (UNTHSC) in Fort Worth.
"I knew that coming to UNT meant a plethora of research opportunities," said Amaya. "As a naturally inquisitive person, it makes sense for me to explore my studies in such a hands-on way."
During her ten weeks at UNTHSC, Amaya conducted research on cancerous brain cells, specifically exploring how oxidative stress influences the differential expression of microRNAs as it relates to cancer.
"At UNTHSC, I was immersed in many new research techniques. I learned to embrace the unknown and let the data speak for itself, " she said. "My goal now is to broaden my knowledge of cells and find a faculty member who can help me do so next year."
Amaya presented her findings in a poster session at UNTHSC after her time there and found the process of sharing her research very rewarding.
"Going from spending my days reading papers for background information to actually carrying out the procedures and interpreting their results made me feel so proud of myself and the work we did this summer," she said.
Amaya has been on both the Dean's List and the President's list for her outstanding marks, and prior to UNT she graduated at the top of her class in high school. She says she tries to bring one hundred percent dedication to everything she sets her mind to. Her professor, Dr. Amy Petros, agrees and recently nominated her for MIT's ACCESS program, which focuses on diversifying graduate education in chemistry.
"I was truly shocked upon seeing my nomination for ACCESS because I had no idea that opportunities like that existed, let alone at such a prestigious institution," said Amaya. "I am beyond grateful that Dr. Petros nominated me, and I hope that I am accepted!"
"Amaya is an exceptional student," said Dr. Petros. "Working with her and seeing her excel at her scientific pursuits has been a career high for me."
"Dr. Petros has continued to provide me with various resources related to my career goals, as well as encouragement when it comes to research," said Amaya. "If not for her, I might not have applied for the UNTHSC program, so I am extremely appreciative to have someone like her in my life and on campus."
Amaya's hopes after UNT involve getting into medical school and becoming an OB/GYN. She looks forward to providing intentional care and being a good resource for her future patients.
"Having read many studies and papers on health disparities, I am aware of the importance of having a physician hear and believe you in regard to your needs, and I would love to be that person for my patients," said Amaya. "I hope I can also teach at a medical school later in my career."