Hanan B
- Research Program Mentor

MD/PhD candidate at Tufts University

Expertise

Genome editing, Genetics, Biology, Biomedical Science, Human Sciences, Genome Editing, CRISPR

Bio

Hi, I’m Hanan! During my time at Georgetown University, I immersed myself in all things science—majoring in Human Science, completing a pre-med curriculum, and conducting genetics research. After earning my B.S. in 2018, I joined the National Institutes of Health, where I spent two years exploring the cutting edge of gene editing and stem cell regeneration. Now, I’m pursuing an MD/PhD at Tufts University (2020-2028), with the ultimate goal of becoming a physician-scientist who runs a lab focused on advancing medicine through research. When I’m not in the lab or clinic, I’m likely indulging in one of my many hobbies. I’m an avid film photographer and love collecting vintage cameras. I enjoy cycling and dream of completing a cross-country bike trip someday. I’m also passionate about arts and crafts—my latest adventure is learning how to knit! I’m excited to work with you and share my love for science and discovery!

Project ideas

Project ideas are meant to help inspire student thinking about their own project. Students are in the driver seat of their research and are free to use any or none of the ideas shared by their mentors.

Genome Editing: Review and Proposal

Genome editing is a rapidly developing field with enormous consequences for scientific and medical advancements. In the past few years, new techniques have emerged that have allowed for precise changes to the human genome. In this project, a student will write a review paper describing the multiple forms of genome editing and their applications. Additionally, they will propose a genome editing project that can help treat a disease of their interest - including computationally designing the appropriate tools one would need to carry out the project.

Podcast Series: Racism in Medicine

The medical field is not immune from racism. From deliberate experimentation on enslaved peoples to withholding proper treatment to Black Men in the Tuskegee Syphilis Study, racism has been present since the start of the medical profession in the United States. In this project, a student will research and interview professionals on different examples of racism in medicine. Each podcast episode will revolve around a specific example - with background information given by the student and a featured interview with a professional.

Coding skills

Beginner R, beginner CSS/HTML

Languages I know

Beginner Japanese

Teaching experience

I have extensive experience mentoring and teaching students across various age groups and academic levels. I worked as a STEM office hours mentor for middle and high school students in an afterschool program in Washington, D.C., providing academic support and fostering enthusiasm for science. Through the College Bound program, I partnered with a ninth-grade student for a year, meeting weekly to assist with homework and provide general life advice and guidance. Additionally, I have mentored multiple college and post-bac students applying to medical school, focusing on refining their application materials. As part of my work with Polygence, I have successfully completed core projects with five students, three of whom chose to submit and publish peer-reviewed journal articles. These experiences have honed my ability to guide students through research projects, academic writing, and critical thinking.