Cancer research: where should I even begin? The field of cancer research is made up of many smaller fields within it, such as cancer virology (where my project falls under). Even then, there are a plethora of viruses that make up the field of cancer virology. Many niche subcategories of fields makes it quite difficult to communicate findings, which are buried under years of complex jargon that builds upon itself. However, throughout my time as a Brackenridge fellow, I feel that I have been able to explore new strategies for communicating my research. It is important to (i) fully understand your project (ii) know your audience and (iii) find strategies that resonate with your audience. 

My project uses loads of jargon such as EBV, LMP1, and KO/KI. Before attempting to communicate any purpose or reasoning behind my project, it is important that I understand everything my project involves to the best of my ability. While my project requires me to understand Epstein-Barr virus at a very complex level, knowing and being able to explain what a virus is on all levels is just as important. Knowing the level your audience is on is important as well. Yes, my project involves complex biology but explaining it to my 80-year-old grandfather is quite different from explaining it to a member of my cohort who has taken a biology course in the past 8 years. 

My favorite strategy for communicating my research is through analogy. For example, when I explain CRISPR/Cas9, I describe it as the Swiss Army Knife of molecular biology. CRISPR can simply cut up DNA like a regular knife does. However, its abilities extend beyond that. CRISPR can add new sections of DNA, make very precise cuts, and even edit single letters of DNA code. I’ll also compare methods I use to methods the general public has heard of. I use hotSHOT PCR to determine if I successfully edited virus DNA. I’ll compare hotSHOT PCR to Covid-19 PCR, as the principle of amplifying a section of DNA as a diagnostic test is the same across both methods. 

Outside of my lab, I’ll most often interact with other scientists at conferences. The Brackenridge has been a special opportunity to collaborate with environmental science, film, and mathematics majors. I’ve been able to focus on the bigger implications of my project beyond my day-to-day workflow, and it has been an eye-opening experience.