Stem cell research

The Harvard Stem Cell Institute (HSCI) brings together Harvard’s affiliated hospitals to investigate the potential of stem cells in the treatment of chronic and degenerative diseases. As an intern with HSCI, Radostin Penchev ’10 is right in the midst of the effort, working for Dr. Benjamin Humphreys in the Renal Division of the Brigham and Women’s Hospital, where he studies progenitor cells that may be responsible for kidney repair—or conversely, pathological processes within the organ such as fibrosis.

Each morning Penchev and Dr. Steven Fabian, his research partner, plan the experiments for the day. “Our work involves a lot of incubation and waiting,” says Penchev, “so in the downtime, when the experiments are running, Dr. Fabian and I use the opportunity to see what is out there in the literature that is related to the work we do.”

A native of Sofia, Bulgaria, Penchev, a biology major with an emphasis in molecular biology and biochemistry, already knew that he wanted to pursue a career in bio-medical research. Thanks to previous research experiences with Macalester professors Becky Hoye, Paul Overvoorde and Devavani Chatterjea, Penchev felt prepared for the prestigious internship. Joan Toohey, director of the Science and Research Office at Macalester, helped him identify programs to apply to; Professor Chris Calderone served as his faculty sponsor; and Professor Liz Jansen gave further advice.

Penchev works about 50 hours per week, thoroughly energized by this extraordinary opportunity. The program includes a weekly stem cell companion course and a seminar during which others discuss their ongoing research, work that is often on its way to publication in leading journals such as Nature and Science. They also discuss controversial questions and misconceptions that have limited federal funding for stem cell research.

“Working for an institution such as the HSCI has been amazing,” says Penchev. “For example, it is not uncommon when faced with a challenge to ask for an opinion of the scientist next door, who may well be the world’s leading expert on the matter. Suffice it to say, my internship experience has made me even more ambitious, motivated, and prepared to follow this professional route.”