SUMMER 2026

Erin-Jade Padayachee

This summer I completed my first undergraduate research experience at Nagoya University in the Laboratory of Animal Integrative Physiology directed by Dr. Takashi Yoshimura. I joined the Circadian Rhythm project, which investigates how our internal biological clock regulates the 24-hour cycle that controls functions such as sleep, body temperature, and hormone secretion. My research focused on studying how mutations on circadian clock proteins may alter their function, helping researchers better understand their role in various diseases including cancer and mental health disorders.

During my time in the lab, I cultured mammalian cells, performed DNA transfections, passaged cells, introduced fluorescent tags, and imaged cells using fluorescence microscopy. This experience helped bridge the gap between textbook knowledge and real world application. I was able to develop valuable laboratory and research skills. This was definitely a transformative step in my undergraduate career.