Research Ambassadors
Jack Chen ‘27
Email me at: jchen198@u.rochester.edu
Discipline(s) of Research
- Life sciences
- Social sciences
Major(s) and Minor(s)
- BS in Biochemistry
- BA in Health, Behavior, and Society
Areas of Interest/Research Focus
- Dr. Grayhack / Grayhack Lab / Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics
- Vaccinex (Biotech) / Immunohistochemistry team / Vaccinex headquarters
- Dr. Fay / Fay Lab / Department of Biology
- Dr. Davies / Project TRAIL / Department of Psychology / Mt. Hope Family Center
Areas where I may be particularly helpful
I can help guide students starting their research journeys. As someone who began research in my first year, I understand how overwhelming it can be, especially as a first-generation college student. I’m eager to support others in navigating lab environments, finding mentors, and building confidence. With experience in both academic and biotech research, and as a McNair Scholar, I can offer valuable insight and encouragement to first-generation students at the University of Rochester.
What advice do you have for prospective or new researchers?
Don’t be afraid to step into research for the first time, even if you feel like you don’t know everything—no one starts off knowing it all. Explore different labs and remember it’s okay to move on if the environment isn’t the right fit for you. Research is as much about finding your niche as it is about building skills.