The Nebraska Institutional Development Award Program (IDeA) Networks of Biomedical Research Excellence (INBRE) program has welcomed 26 undergraduate students from across Nebraska as they embark on their summer research experience at Creighton University, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and UNMC.
Below, Hunter Kleinschmidt of Doane University talks about his INBRE experience.
Tell me about yourself. Who are your heroes?
“I attend Doane University where I am majoring in biology and environmental science with a minor in chemistry. My hero is American rapper, spoken word artist, music video director and rights activist Prince Ea.”
How did you become interested in science?
“I became interested in science during my first semester at Doane. I came in with a pre-physical therapy education plan, which quickly shifted to biology after I was exposed to the vast array of life sciences that I wasn’t exposed to growing up with a small town education.”
What are your career goals?
“I aspire to get my Ph.D. and become a professor. Maybe even have my own lab one day.”
What do you hope the INBRE program will do for you?
“I am hoping that INBRE will give me the work experience and confidence I need to stand out to top tier graduate schools. I also expect it to add fuel to my already burning passion for science and research.”
How do you see science evolving over the next 20 years?
“I see science growing exponentially over the next 20 years. Like many decades before us, advancements have been unfathomable and world changing. I expect this at much higher rates considering our increasing ability to use technology. I also see a much greater shift to human and planetary health along with conservation and renewability in this age of climate change and population booms.”