In Vitro Characterization of Trypanosoma brucei Methionyl-tRNA synthetases
Joshua Sobecks is a fourth-year undergraduate student at The Ohio State University, pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Biochemistry with a minor in Bioethics, with a strong interest in biochemical mechanisms underlying disease and therapeutic development. His academic work focuses on applying molecular and biochemical approaches to clinically relevant problems to better understand cellular processes that inform translational medical research. During three years of research in the laboratory of Dr. Karin Musier-Forsyth at the Center for RNA Biology, Joshua conducted wet-lab biochemical studies investigating aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases.
In the summer of 2024, Joshua was selected for the Undergraduate Research Apprenticeship Program (URAP), where he received funded support to conduct full-time research and presented his project in a poster session at the program’s end-of-summer research symposium. His work involved steady-state enzyme kinetics and a range of molecular biology and biochemical techniques including PCR, in vitro transcription, protein purification, and aminoacylation assays. His work examined the in vitro characterization of Trypanosoma brucei methionyl-tRNA synthetases and the role of associated scaffold proteins in modulating enzymatic activity. Currently, Joshua conducts research at Nationwide Children’s Hospital in the Department of Regenerative Medicine, where he applies biochemical and molecular approaches to the development of tissue-engineered tracheal grafts designed to restore airway structure and function. His work focuses on developing living airway constructs capable of structural integration, renewal, and long-term tissue regeneration. Through these experiences, he has developed a strong foundation in biochemical research, translational medicine, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Following graduation, Joshua plans to apply to medical school and continue full-time research during his gap year, with the long-term goal of pursuing a career as a physician-scientist advancing regenerative and translational therapies.
Impact of the Choose Ohio First Scholarship Program
"The Choose Ohio First (COF) Scholarship Program has had a meaningful impact on my academic career beyond financial support by strengthening my connection to the university community and helping me stay organized and focused on my professional goals. Through COF events and programming, I had the opportunity to network with fellow scholars and faculty members, which allowed me to build valuable academic and professional relationships. Additionally, the structured requirements and regular program check-ins helped me stay organized and accountable, ensuring that I remained on track with academic, research, and professional development goals.".