Presidential scholar’s research seeks new cancer treatment

It’s no surprise to hear that OSU scientists are working on new and innovative cancer treatments, but at this research-oriented campus some outstanding undergraduates are applying their keen minds to the task, too.

Bioengineering senior and Presidential Scholar Erin Rieke (left) has spent the last two summers doing research through OSU’s Howard Hughes Medical Institute program. Under the guidance of Christine Kelly, associate professor of chemical engineering (right), Rieke is seeking ways to treat cancer with microscopic nanoparticles. Such procedures would keep healthy tissues from being exposed to the harmful effects of chemotherapy or radiation.

Last year, her work examined the effects of irraditation doses on breast cancer cell proliferation. “I really enjoy the practicality of this research,” Rieke said. “We’re creating tangible new treatment methods, not just determining some chemical pathways in the body.”

It’s an extraordinary experience for a budding researcher, but Rieke has been more than a learner during her years at OSU. She’s also been a teacher. As an active member of OSU’s Society of Biological Engineering student chapter, Rieke visits area schools, introducing kids from grades three through 12 to basic bioengineering concepts.

In July, Rieke also mentored two students from SESEY: Summer Experience in Science and Engineering for Youth. This one-week program brings high school girls and minority students on campus to explore the world of engineering and to consider careers in its various fields. “What’s unique about the program is that the students actually do real lab bench work and research,” Rieke explained. “They come in on Monday, we show them how to feed cells, and throughout the week they get more and more excited and confident. It’s very neat to watch that process.”

Recipient of a national Goldwater Scholarship, Rieke is a Presidential Scholar. Among OSU’s most prestigious student awards, Presidential Scholarships help to attract Oregon’s best and brightest students, like this medical school-bound Tualatin resident.

This summer OSU received a $1.5 million grant from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute to continue to fund undergraduate research projects like Rieke’s and bolster science outreach initiatives at all grade levels throughout the state.