We are proud to share that iCons senior, Benjamin (Ben) Aaronson ’22 (iCons Biomedicine/Biosystems track), a Biology and Spanish dual degree candidate, has been selected as a Fall 2021 UMass Rising Researcher.
Working with Craig Albertson of UMass Biology, Ben is studying the genetic basis of bone disorders such as syndactyly (fused fingers and toes) and how the environment affects bone development over time. Ben’s work with Albertson resulted in a published article as a co-author in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Science (PNAS). The Albertson Lab relies on teamwork among a wide range of lab members who bring individual skill sets and knowledge to the lab. From fish husbandry to organismal biology to ecology, all members need to work together.
“The iCons Program prepared me for success in lab," said Ben, "because I was already prepared to work on interdisciplinary teams in research that has a real-world application, that of advancing the study of human bone disorders.”
Ben plans to study Spanish in Salamanca, Spain to complete his dual degrees. Upon completion, he will apply to medical school with designs on ultimately working in sports medicine or orthopedics.
“Receiving this award has made me recognize just how invaluable my lab learning and training are and how I don’t want to waste the skills I developed in the Albertson Lab. I want to contribute to valuable scientific advancements.”
The UMass Rising Researcher program celebrates students who excel in research, scholarship, or creative activity.
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