At Yeshiva College, students are engaged in exciting NSF-funded research under the guidance of Dr. Irina Catrina, assistant professor of chemistry, and Dr. Josefa Steinhauer, professor of biology.  The research has far-reaching applications, shedding light on human diseases caused by inappropriate gene expression, such as cancer, neurodegenerative diseases and developmental disorders.

The students’ participation is on the cutting-edge of molecular biology research, working on the computational design of novel nucleic acid probes for imaging RNA localization in fruit fly egg chambers.  They’re also gaining experience in animal husbandry, tissue dissection and several molecular techniques, including tissue staining and RT-PCR. “The ultimate goal of the project is to develop new and highly sensitive methods for detecting closely related RNA variants in vivo (taking place within a living organism),” said Dr. Catrina, “which will have wide applicability for understanding RNA localization and/or gene expression.” 

Guided by their professors, the students, Jaden Jubas ’26YC, Jason Hirschprung ‘27YC, Avraham Kohn ‘28YC, Benjamin Gluck ‘26YC, Adam Sussman ‘28YC and Joseph Gettenberg '26YC, are developing a strong foundation in standard lab methods, advanced light microscopy and bioinformatics, preparing them for meaningful careers as future researchers and opening doors for them to contribute to real scientific discovery.

“This project highlights Yeshiva University’s dedication to cultivating an active research environment where students evolve from learners to published scientists, equipping them with a competitive advantage as they pursue medical school and doctoral programs," added Dr. Catrina.