It is said of scientific discovery that, “Somewhere, something incredible is waiting to be known.” In Assistant Professor of Biology Jenny Fisher’s science lab, that something is not only the discoveries she makes, but the opportunities she creates for young researchers. 

Assistant Professor of Biology Jenny Fisher focuses her research on fecal pollution in local waterways from septic tanks and how that connects with antibiotic-resistant bacteria in humans.

While Fisher's research is complex, she isn't undertaking it alone. Over the years, Fisher has worked with several undergraduate students as research assistants. One of those assistants is Angad Sidhu, president of the Student Government Association.

"Research has been one of the best experiences of in my undergrad career," Sidhu said. He has had the chance to expand on Fisher's research, as well as work on his own projects.

At many larger universities, these research opportunities are reserved for graduate students. "I think that working here, [undergraduates] get a really unique experience," Fisher said. "They are a major part of the project, and they are really doing the important work." 

Working with Fisher on research has been an amazing experience for Sidhu. He said he's gained lots of knowledge and experience with real-world applications that he can pull from as he starts looking for jobs in his field. 

However, on-the-job skills aren't the only things Sidhu has gained from his two-year stint in Fisher's lab. "By doing this over and over, it's really given me confidence and the ability to be really independent," Sidhu said. 

Over time, Sidhu has also had the chance to become a mentor himself. Fisher said she's especially excited about creating a legacy in her lab, one in which students get the chance to mentor other students along the way.

While Fisher has had lots of success in creating a robust research experience for students, it does come with its fair share of challenges. Too often, undergraduate students have to forego a research assistant position because of work and family responsibilities.

Fisher is working to change that and make research more accessible for anyone who wants to try their hand. "[We are] looking at new initiatives to do some first-year research-based classes that would get lots of people into the idea of doing research," Fisher said.

Among other things, Fisher said she would like to see more funding or fellowship opportunities for students who need to work full time. "[We're] trying to find a way to engage the people who get engaged the least," she said.

Fisher wants science to be accessible and meaningful to everyone, not just those who have a background in research. That's why Fisher also places emphasis on science communication. She encourages students to write up their research in a way that's understandable to the general public. "It's making [science] practically accessible for people that do it but making the work meaningful for people who don't do science," Fisher added.

By putting research assistantships within the reach of undergraduates, Fisher and her colleagues open a world of opportunities for their students. "A lot of the opportunities I saw here are really well-suited to what I wanted to do in the future," Sidhu said.

The benefits of student-faculty interaction are twofold. Undergraduates like Sidhu get the chance to experience real-world applications of their studies, as well as add some heft to their resumes. In turn, faculty members like Fisher get some welcome assistance in the lab.

Nevertheless, the real benefit for Fisher is seeing students learn and grow their love for science and research. "I think my job as a mentor is a lot more important," Fisher said. "I really like getting to see science through their eyes."