by William Li
This summer, I had the privilege of working with a biotech startup at the California Institute of Technology, aiming to create synthetic embryos from human stem cells. The goal is to study early congenital diseases for prevention and treatment without needing IVF donor samples, potentially opening doors for synthetic organ growth and transplant technology. My primary task was to improve the efficiency of assembloid progenitors and optimize cell culture conditions.
I primarily focused on optimizing the protocols for assembling progenitor cells, a critical step in developing synthetic embryos. This involved fine-tuning the cell culture conditions, such as media composition and environmental factors, to enhance cell viability and differentiation. I also collaborated with a multidisciplinary team, including biologists, engineers, and data scientists, to analyze the outcomes and iterate on the processes.
Throughout this internship, I gained valuable technical skills, such as advanced cell culture techniques and data analysis methods. I also developed soft skills like teamwork, communication, and project management. These skills were crucial as we navigated the challenges of optimizing a novel and complex process. Additionally, I deepened my understanding of stem cell biology and the potential applications of synthetic biology in medicine.
The OKRs I set at the beginning of my internship were instrumental in guiding my work and measuring my progress. One of the key results was increasing the efficiency of progenitor cell assembly by 25%, which significantly advanced our project’s goals. Another was implementing a standardized protocol for cell culture conditions, which helped streamline the process and improve reproducibility. These achievements underscored the importance of setting clear, measurable objectives in driving impactful work.
One major lesson I learned was the importance of adaptability in research. Unexpected challenges, such as cell viability issues or variability in experimental results, required quick thinking and problem-solving. I also learned the value of interdisciplinary collaboration, as insights from different fields often led to innovative solutions. This experience reinforced my passion for scientific research and my desire to contribute to cutting-edge advancements in biotechnology.
Looking ahead, I plan to apply the skills and knowledge I’ve gained to my future academic and professional pursuits. This experience has solidified my interest in pursuing a career in synthetic biology and regenerative medicine. I am eager to continue exploring the potential of stem cells and synthetic biology to revolutionize medicine and improve human health. This internship has been a formative step in my journey, and I am excited about the future possibilities.
My summer internship at Caltech’s biotech startup was a transformative experience, providing valuable skills and insights that will guide my future career. The work we did on synthetic embryos and cell culture optimization has the potential to make significant contributions to medical research and treatment. I am grateful for the opportunity to have been part of such an innovative and impactful project.
