Breanna Haught
“I became interested in cancer research because cancer directly impacted my family; my grandmother was diagnosed with cancer. I witnessed what she went through, and I would like to contribute to the scientific community to help those like her.”
What is your educational background and what made you interested in your field of study?
I graduated from WVU with a bachelor’s degree in Immunology and Medical Microbiology (IMMB). During my time as an undergraduate, I really loved science and working as an intern in the IMMB program.
As for my field of my study, I became interested in cancer research because cancer directly impacted my family; my grandmother was diagnosed with cancer. I witnessed what she went through, and I would like to contribute to the scientific community to help those like her.
Why did you choose WVU for your graduate education?
There are a few reasons. I chose WVU because I completed my bachelor’s degree here, and I truly love West Virginia. My family is from this state, and West Virginia has so much natural beauty and always makes me feel at home. Additionally, I liked the ability to explore scientific fields under the Biomedical Sciences program.
What is your current role with the WVU Cancer Institute?
I am a Ph.D. student working in Scott Weed’s, Ph.D., laboratory researching Appalachian-associated head and neck squamous cell carcinoma.
How has the work enhanced your learning and experience at WVU?
I have learned new scientific methods, how to design experiments and am learning how to clearly and efficiently communicate scientific research to others.
What is one thing you have learned while at WVU that will help you with your next step in this research?
One thing I’ve learned that helps with furthering my research is how to effectively read, interpret and explain findings from a primary scientific article.
What is exciting or new in your field of study right now?
Something I find exciting right now in the field of cancer research is the development of multi-cancer early detection (MCED) tests, which could allow for diagnosing and treating cancer early.
What are your career goals following graduation?
While I am still deciding, I have an interest in scientific communication to both other scientists and the public.
How did you become interested in science communications and what are you hoping to do in the future?
The IMMB program at WVU helped a lot in my interest in scientific communication. I remember in my classes we talked about the importance of making sure science is reliable and trustworthy, as well as the concept of presenting science clearly to those outside your field.
In the future, I like the idea of somehow connecting to and communicating scientific discoveries to the public, such as on the topics of cancer prevention, treatment or even broader scientific topics like the process of scientific research or the immune system.
What advice would you give prospective students?
Try not to compare yourself to others and do not be afraid to ask questions!