Caroline Scott (Class of 2025, ACS Chemistry), traveled to Perform Summer Research at the University of Tokyo, an NSF-Sponsored International Collaboration

Sunghee Lee • August 21, 2023

This summer, Caroline Scott (Class of 2025, ACS Chemistry) joined a globally renowed scientific team in Tokyo to perform research in the field of Biophysical Chemistry. This opportunity was enabled by the NSF Award to Dr. Sunghee Lee for international research collaboration with Professor Shoji Takeuchi of the University of Tokyo. In the past, five students from Dr. Lee’s research group have traveled to Japan for a month-long research project: Peter J. Milianta (Class of 2016, Biochemistry), Michael McGlone (Class of 2017, Physics), Jacqueline Denver (Class of 2017, Biochemistry), Alessandra Armetta (Class of 2018), and Joseph Giancaspro (Class of 2020). Dr. Lee noted, “This is a tremendous opportunity for our students to experience a true intellectual collaboration. Our research partners in Japan are very impressed by our students’ dedication and contribution. After three years of interruption, I am very happy to be able to send an Iona student to Japan again this summer. Caroline has been working diligently on the investigation of electrical property of model cell membranes and her summer experience provided an even greater level of confidence and strength towards her goal in advancing to a PhD program upon graduation from Iona.”

Caroline added “This summer I had the amazing opportunity to travel to Tokyo, Japan for 5 weeks to conduct electrophysiological measurement of a model cell membrane. This experience was incredible. Not only did I learn an immense amount of important research skills, but I also got to explore the country of Japan and learn about its culture and history. On the weekends, I even got to hike to the top of Mount Fuji! The most valuable part of my experience in Japan was how much science I learned including how to analyze data and display results in a way that can help organize ideas and discover problems that will lead the research in the right direction. I am extremely thankful to Dr. Osaki and Prof. Takeuchi for welcoming me and guiding me with every step, and Dr. Lee for giving this opportunity and for her continuous support. I will now get to put these skills to use for the rest of my own scientific career, as I aspire to advance to PhD program after Iona.”

Celebrating Our Graduating Seniors: A Joyful End-of-Semester Gathering

By Sunghee Lee • May 6, 2025
As the semester comes to a close, Project Symphony members gathered to celebrate a very special milestone - the graduation of seven dedicated seniors who have been an integral part of our team for many years. Their passion, enthusiasm, and hard work have not only driven their individual growth but have also contributed to the collective success of our group. Together, we’ve achieved so much more than any one of us could alone - a beautiful reminder of the power of collaboration and shared purpose...the true meaning of the "Project Symphony"! We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to these remarkable students for the energy and commitment they brought to the lab every day. Your contributions have truly made a difference, and we are proud to have been part of your journey. As you embark on your next chapter, we wish you all the very best in your future endeavors. Remember, once you are a member of the Project Symphony, you are forever part of our family. We look forward to seeing the incredible things you will accomplish ahead! Congratulations and thank you for everything!

Congratulations to Dr. Giancaspro on Earning His Medical Degree!

By Sunghee Lee • May 5, 2025
We are thrilled to celebrate a remarkable milestone for our former Project Symphony group member, Joe, who officially earned their Medical Doctor (MD) degree today for SUNY Upstate Medical University. This achievement marks the culmination of years of dedication, hard work, and passion for advancing healthcare. During his time with Project Symphony, Joe demonstrated exceptional commitment to research and a genuine curiosity that inspired us all. We have no doubt that these qualities will make him an outstanding physician and a valuable contributor to the medical community. Please join us in congratulating Dr. Giancaspro on this well-deserved accomplishment. We look forward to seeing all the incredible ways they will impact the world of medicine!

Celebrating Excellence: A Big Congrats to the Project Symphony

By Sunghee Lee • April 17, 2025
I’m so excited to congratulate and celebrate the amazing achievements of our undergraduate research group, the Project Symphony, at this year’s Iona Scholars Day! You all worked incredibly hard, and it really showed. The presentations covered a wide range of interesting and impactful projects that not only highlight your academic skills but also your passion for learning and discovery. Each project was a great example of your creativity and dedication. What stood out the most was how engaged and enthusiastic everyone was about their research. Your energy was contagious, and it was clear you’ve really connected with your topics and learned a lot along the way. A huge shoutout to each of you for your fantastic presentations. Your hard work and passion for research really set you apart, and I’m so proud of everything you’ve accomplished. I’m confident you’ll keep doing great things and making a real impact in your fields. Once again, congrats to everyone on a successful Iona Scholars Day!
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