GMS PhD Spotlight: Stacy Jankowski (MTM ’25)
Stacy Jankowski is a PhD candidate in the GMS Graduate Program in Molecular & Translational Medicine, through the Program in Biomedical Sciences (PiBS). Stacy’s research in the lab of Dr. Maria Kukuruzinska investigates serine and the synthesis pathway’s impact on cell plasticity through epigenetic modification in oral squamous cell carcinoma. She matriculated into BU after working in industry as a Senior Research Associate and plans to return to industry once she graduates in May 2025. Learn more about Stacy’s journey below!
What did you complete your dissertation research on and how did you settle on that topic?
My dissertation research focused on a specific amino acid, serine, and the serine synthesis pathway’s impact on cell plasticity through epigenetic modification in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). The Kukuruzinska Lab investigates different factors involved in the progression of OSCC. My project took the research in a new direction by investigating the impact dietary nutrients have on promoting aggressive cancer.
Why did you choose to do a PhD?
I was working in industry as a Senior Research Associate when I decided that I wanted to go back to school to get a PhD. While the work was fulfilling, I wanted to expand my scientific knowledge and expand my career opportunities.
How would you describe a typical day as a PhD student?
Once I was done with classes, a typical day involved reading papers, designing and running experiments, analyzing data, and then putting together figures to show the results. For my project, I was lucky enough to collaborate closely with a bioinformatics student, so my time was also spent with them to discuss my data analysis and how to interpret our findings.
What is one of your best memories from the time in your PhD?
My best memories of my PhD are the opportunities to travel to conferences. I had the opportunity to travel to Keystone, CO, Portland, OR, Orlando, FL, and New York, NY for different conferences to present my research at.
What are your next steps?
My next steps are to go back into biotech in Boston.
Is there anyone in your life who inspired your decision to pursue this career path?
I have a mentor, Dr. Justin Boyd, who gave me my first ever lab job over 10 years ago, even though I had absolutely no benchwork experience. He really challenged me to think like a scientist for the first time and has been encouraging me every step of the way since then.
Do you have any advice for future PhD students or anything else you would like to share?
My advice is to make friends with your peers and don’t be afraid to reach out to the more senior PhD students for their insight. Getting a PhD can feel incredibly isolating at times and it’s important to reach out to others who understand. Everything from the daily struggles to the triumphs are better with a good support system.
What do you like to do for fun in Boston?
I’ve lived in Boston for 15 years and still never get tired of exploring the city! There are constantly fun events to attend, new coffee shops to try, and places to explore with friends.