Margaret
Margaret
New Mission High School
Boston, MA
Mentor:
Anthony Fazio
PRISM
Maggie (Margaret) joined the ӳý Summer Scholars Program looking for a project that combined hands-on lab work with the chance to make an immediate impact on scientific workflows. She joined the PRISM Screening Group, which develops high-throughput assays to test how cancer cell lines respond to different drugs. Her project focused on optimizing the “lysate collapse” step in the Extended PRISM Screen (EPS), a critical stage that consolidates samples for PCR and sequencing. Without this step, ӳý scientists would not be able to track how individual cancer cell lines respond to experimental therapies.
Previously, lysate collapse had been performed on a Hamilton STARlet liquid handler. But with the STARlet aging and limited in availability, the team needed a robust backup plan using the more abundant Hamilton STAR. Maggie trained in programming and operating the Hamilton system, as well as in tissue culture, PCR, and sequencing library preparation. She designed a series of experiments to test how different factors — including mixing speeds, cycle numbers, and tip types — influenced the quality of collapsed lysates.
Her results showed that the STAR could be a reliable replacement, but only if the method was carefully optimized. Reducing the number of mix cycles from 60 to 45 preserved sample integrity while saving time and wear on the machine. Switching to larger “black rocket” tips during the second half of the process also improved sequencing consistency. These adjustments made the workflow more efficient without compromising data quality.
For Maggie, the project was not only about mastering lab techniques but also about learning the mindset of a process engineer: testing variables, troubleshooting when results were unexpected, and thinking about long-term sustainability. “The BSSP experience to me was a joyful, laughter-filled, and educational experience,” she said. “The program is so much more than research; it’s a community!” Her work will ensure EPS remains resilient and scalable, directly supporting drug discovery efforts at the ӳý.
