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INBRE scholars on campus – meet Kara Maddox

Twenty-six students from 10 different undergraduate and community college programs have joined the Institutional Development Award Program (IDeA) Networks of Biomedical Research Excellence (INBRE)/ Biomedical Research Infrastructure Network (BRIN) program.









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Kara Maddox

Established in 2001, the BRIN program was created to expose students to serious biomedical research, build a statewide biomedical research infrastructure between undergraduate and graduate institutions and to strengthen each undergraduate institution’s infrastructure and increase its capacity to conduct cutting-edge biomedical and behavioral research.

Today we meet Kara Maddox, a junior at Nebraska Wesleyan University majoring in biology.

What should we know about you?

I just finished my sophomore year at Wesleyan. My favorite classes this past year were genetics and cell biology. I enjoyed learning the different mechanisms and pathways that occur in the human cell. During the school year my study breaks involved playing ultimate Frisbee, participating in the multicultural events on campus, and going out to coffee with friends. My favorite hobbies are art and music. I like to oil paint and play the violin. I also enjoy cooking with my mom and taking my dog on walks.

What or who influenced your interest in science?

My parents are the primary source of influence in my interest in science, as well as the biology professors at Nebraska Wesleyan.

What is it about science that excites you?

Science is a way in which I can pursue my curiosity and discover how and why things work.

Will you pursue a career in science? If so, what do you hope to accomplish?

I want to pursue a career in research and medicine. I hope to do research that can lead to treatment or a cure for diseases prominently in third world countries and travel there to administer the medicine.

Why is it important to have programs like INBRE?

INBRE is an opportunity for students to explore and try out different areas of science. This program enables students, sparks hope and interest, and is one of the first steps towards the students pursuing a career in science. Without this program, many students would not be aware of all the career opportunities available for those interested in science outside of practicing medicine