The pair spent most of their days working in a lab with graduate students. Their research, under Dr. Deborah Brown, considers the effectiveness of small molecules, known as adjuvants, in protecting the immune system against lethal Influenza-A doses.
“The thing with influenza is that it mutates a lot, very quickly,” Crespo said. “The ultimate goal of scientists who are studying influenza is to make a universal vaccine. It’s a huge goal, but that’s kind of what we’re trying to help [advance].”
“I’ve learned what it means to think and work like a scientist.”
Chrissy Crespo ’25
Major: Biochemistry & molecular biology
Hometown: Henderson, Nev.
Crespo and Jaboldinov each had strong research experience prior to this semester, working in Hamilton labs and participating in various summer programs. Last semester, Crespo worked on her senior thesis with Associate Professor of Chemistry Max Majireck, whose research affiliation with the Trudeau Institute proved instrumental in successfully launching the pilot study-away program.
But their time at the Institute has been different, immersing them in a “real-world” scientific work experience. “[There’s an] importance to being challenged as a real scientist in the demanding, fast-paced nature of research,” Jaboldinov said. “I’ve learned what it means to think and work like a scientist.”
Alinur Jaboldinov ’26
Major: Biochemistry & molecular biology
Hometown: Almaty, Kazakhstan
The program concluded on April 30 with a presentation of their research to scientists at the Institute. The pair agree that the program has prepared them for future career pursuits. Jaboldinov intends to attend graduate school, while Crespo plans to become a research technician.
“You have to live [research],” Crespo said. “This program has taught me that I would thrive in this collaborative environment where you're all thinking about science and constantly learning from each other. It’s really amazing.”
