SHS graduates working on research at OMRF

Anne Alger and Leah Henry, 2007 graduates of Shawnee High School, are spending the summer working on individual research projects at the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation (OMRF) in Oklahoma City.
Both are recipients of Sir Alexander Fleming Scholarships, which has given them the opportunity to do hands-on biomedical research for eight weeks.
Alger works with Dr. Darise Farris and is studying how genes work in the development of systemic lupus erythematosus, or SLE. Henry’s project, under the direction of Dr. Rheal Towner, centers on the mechanisms that lead to the formation of brain tumors.
“My lab gives me the perfect balance of letting me learn through doing experiments independently but still guiding when I need help,” Alger said. “It has been nice to experience research firsthand, because it gives more learning to the degree I’m pursuing in college.”
Alger and Henry will be sophomores at The University of Oklahoma this fall. As Fleming scholars, each complete a research project, write a scientific paper and present the findings in a formal seminar to OMRF scientific staff.
“I have learned more in my time here about research, biological processes and options for graduate school than I ever could have imagined,” Henry said. “It has shown me that there is so much that I have yet to learn and that there will always be more to learn. To actually work in a lab and have my own project is an experience I’ll never forget.”
Among the other 2008 Fleming scholars is Meaghan Wierzbic, Harrah High School.