Into the SSRP: The Protein Pioneers Track
The Summer Science Research Program at Rockefeller University allows students to explore the relationship between structure and form on the NSP13 protein through the Protein Pioneers track.
As the 2024 session of SSRP comes to a close, the Protein Pioneers have been reflecting on their growth over the past 7 weeks. From protein purification to SDS page gels, the students have become well-versed in complex lab techniques and have grown tremendously as scientists. Track scientist Anoosha Banerjee fondly remembers when “the SDS page gels and purification worked, everyone was really excited. Seeing [the group] really excited, got [her] really excited and happy.”
This experience created an appreciation for the intricate ways viruses replicate within our cells and demonstrates how protein biochemistry and structural biology contribute to combating viral infections.
The study of proteins like Nsp13 highlights the importance of structure-function relationships in biology. Proteins, composed of amino acids, fold into unique three-dimensional shapes that determine their functions. This folding is influenced by the sequence of amino acids, which ultimately dictates the protein’s shape and, consequently, its role in biological processes
Although the Protein Pioneers group excelled in the RockEDU laboratory, members of the track shared some of their fondest memories from their overall SSRP experience, including moments of camaraderie shared between the students.
“It was always supportive when you’re stressed out,” fellow SSRP student Nina shared. “It was never boring or stressful because of the people there.”
One of the stand-out experiences from the Protein Pioneers track is the friendly competition between the Actin Avengers and the Covalently Bonded Intellectuals (or CBI). Track scientists Anoosha Banerjee and Priya Choudhary set up a House Cup-inspired, 7-week-long competition in which the track was split into two teams.
The teams have been going head-to-head in a series of competitions designed to test their knowledge as the Protein Pioneers track progressed, ranging from lecture-based trivia to multiple rounds of trivia.
After each game, both teams are given points towards their total, with the end goal of deciding the ice cream flavors of the track’s highly anticipated ice cream party.
“My favorite SSRP moments were every Friday when we got together and beat the CBI” says Reetham, a proud member of the Actin Avengers.
Stay tuned to find out who wins the Protein Pioneers competition!