Jocelyn is a senior Choose Ohio First (COF) Engineering and Science Innovators (ESI-Science) scholar majoring Biochemistry at The Ohio State University (OSU) with interests in youth empowerment and cancer biology. After graduating in Spring 2022, Jocelyn plans on pursuing her Ph.D. in Cancer Biology to become a professor and researcher studying the genetic mechanisms of cancer metastasis and drug resistance. Jocelyn currently conducts research at the OSU with Dr. James Chen and Dr. John Hays. Her research identifies biomarkers of drug resistance in patients with sarcoma. Moreover, her work has been published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology and has been presented at several symposia including the Connective Tissue Oncology Society Annual Conference. Jocelyn’s work has culminated in an Honors Thesis that she will defend in Spring 2022.

Additionally, Jocelyn has previous research experience with the National Cancer Institute where she worked with Dr. Denis Wirtz from Johns Hopkins University to study venous invasion in pancreatic cancer using a novel 3D imaging method. Jocelyn’s passion for teaching has accumulated through her experience working with children in Camp Kesem, conducting science experiments with elementary students, and working with college students as a General Chemistry Lab Teaching Associate. Beyond teaching, Jocelyn also strives to advocate for students by serving on multiple student boards at her university.

Jocelyn will represent the OSU at the Annual Choose Ohio First Showcase on Wednesday, February 16, 2022 at 2:00 PM. She is presenting a research poster entitled Imaging of Pancreatic Tumors in 3D to Study Venous Invasion. In addition, she has mentioned that COF has been an all-encompassing support organization throughout her college career. During her time as a freshman, Jocelyn made friends and mentors who helped her to conduct research at a very early stage of her academic career. By the second year, she joined Wonders of Our World (WOW), which made her realize the impact that college students can have on younger students. Her interest in youth empowerment stemmed from her time working with younger students and has been one of her most impactful activities Joselyn participated in during her undergraduate career. As a senior, she continues to feel supported as she prepares for graduate school.