Ima N. Need
Jackson Laboratory Summer Program
Application Essay
Fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) is a common rheumatic syndrome indicating widespread pain
in fibrous tissues, muscles, tendons, and other connective tissues, resulting in painful muscles. It
affects an estimated 10 million Americans and there is currently no determinate cause or cure for this
debilitating condition. After a close friend of mine was diagnosed with FMS, I began an extensive
research project during the summer of 2002 in an attempt to uncover a cause (and ultimately a cure)
for this mysterious illness. Under the tutelage of my advanced biology teacher, an experienced
biologist who also researches FMS, I carried this project into my schoolwork by creating an
advanced biology independent study centered around my research goals. While the majority of my
work was done independently, I frequently collaborated with her as well as with local doctors.
During this time, I explored dozens of potential causes as well as the known links between
FMS and other disorders. My initial findings were presented in research paper format to a local
neurologist and a rheumatologist associated with Mayo Clinic, Dr. Uzma Khan. I am currently
exploring the possible connection between FMS and a gene that causes increased coagulopathy. The
goal of this project is to determine how hypercoagulability can eventually lead to the onset of FMS
and possibly some form of mitochondrial dysfunction.
I also participated in the Women in Engineering Educational Program at Michigan
Technological University (MTU) during the summer of 2002. As the program focused on genetics
and cellular functions, our group explored current trends in biotechnology and genetic engineering in
addition to mastering a wide variety of molecular and genetic information. I was given the
opportunity to work as part of a team on several projects during the course of the program. For
example, we were able to model gene expression by creating bioluminescent bacteria by means of
vector transmission. We were also able to extract DNA and analyze it using gel electrophoresis. Of
extreme importance is that our group was able to gain invaluable hands-on experience using NCBI
online resources such as BLAST and GenBank to analyze DNA sequences.
Page 1 of 3
Ima N. Need
Jackson Laboratory Summer Program
Application Essay
I feel this program would be extremely beneficial to me in my preparation for a career as a
biological scientist and genetic researcher. It will help me to further my knowledge of scientific
concepts as they relate to bioinformatics as well as genetic and biological research. It will also
provide me with an opportunity to gain more hands-on laboratory experience, whether it is related to
bioinformatics, genetics, or a different biological arena. Perhaps most importantly, I will be given an
opportunity to sharpen my research skills in independent as well as group settings.
I am currently pursuing a BS degree in bioinformatics at MTU, which is why I chose
Bioinformatics as my Research Interest of choice. As bioinformatics is a relatively new field, it is
difficult to gain much experience through the typical college curriculum. This program would
provide me with a rare glimpse into the arena of bioinformatics, and I feel I would benefit from it
immensely.
Genomics is my second choice, as I find work in this area of research to be fascinating as
well as gratifying. This is especially true of the study of how genes relate to and control the disease
process. Although I am extremely interested in genomics in general, I firmly believe FMS has a
genetic component, which further strengthens my desire to delve into genomic research.
Many of the symptoms of FMS are neurological, although no specific cause for them can be
identified. These include psychological complications, “dead” reflexes, and “shooting” or “burning”
pain sensations. Although I do not feel that these symptoms are genetic in basis, I find neurobiology
to be an exceptionally intriguing area of study, especially when it is being explored in combination
with genetic factors. For this reason, Neurobiology and Sensory Deficits is my third Research
Interest choice.
Another primary characteristic of FMS is a compromised immune system. Again, the cause
of this is unknown, although some suggest that the problem is genetic in origin. Aside from their
possible connection to my FMS research, I find the mechanisms by which the body is kept healthy to
Page 2 of 3
Ima N. Need
Jackson Laboratory Summer Program
Application Essay
be exceptionally fascinating. I am especially intrigued by the role genes play in keeping organisms
healthy through immune function and hematopoiesis, which is why Hematology/Immunology is my
fourth Research Interest choice.
I do not have any strong preferences against working in any of the other research areas; I am
simply more interested in the ones I chose. I also do not have a preference concerning the use of
laboratory animals. Although I am an animal lover, I understand that certain types of biological
research demand the use of animals and I am prepared to enter into any type of research project with
an open mind.
After graduating from Michigan Technological University with a degree in bioinformatics, I
plan to use the knowledge and skills I acquire throughout my experience to make significant
contributions to the biomedical world. I have learned that obtaining this type of degree will enable
me to research many genetic aspects of animal and human health. Although working in any type of
biological research facility would be challenging and exciting, my strongest aspiration is to conduct
meaningful genetic research concerning debilitating, non-terminal human diseases, specifically
fibromyalgia syndrome.
While attending Michigan Technological University, I participate in the MTU Pep Band, the
Bioinformatics Club, and co-ed volleyball, in addition to Winter Carnival activities and other social
events. I also enjoy reading Scientific American and Issues in Science and Technology as well as
exploring online genetic research tools such as BLAST, Entrez, GenBank, and PubMed. Much of
my spare time at home is spent hiking, fishing, and enjoying the outdoors in addition to preparing my
horse for barrel racing competition. Although it is limited, I spend a tremendous amount of my spare
time working on my FMS research, as this project has become an integral part of my life. I feel this
program will benefit not only my research but my skills as a researcher and scientist as well.
Page 3 of 3