Dr. Elena Vasquez
Biomedical Research Scientist
National Institutes of Health
About
Dr. Elena Vasquez is a biomedical researcher whose work focuses on understanding genetic markers for early cancer detection. She has published over 30 peer-reviewed papers and holds two patents for diagnostic methods. A first-generation college student, she is deeply committed to making science accessible to underrepresented communities.
“Science is not just for people who look a certain way or come from a certain background. If you are curious and persistent, you belong in STEM.”
Interview
What drew you to biomedical research?
When I was in high school, my grandmother was diagnosed with cancer. I felt helpless watching her go through treatment, and I wanted to understand the science behind it. That personal connection drove me to study biology in college, and I fell in love with the research process. There's something deeply meaningful about knowing your work could one day help save someone's life.
What does a typical day look like for you?
No two days are exactly alike, which is what I love about research. Some days I'm in the lab running experiments, analyzing tissue samples, or working with our genomics sequencing equipment. Other days I'm at my desk writing grant proposals, reviewing data, or collaborating with colleagues at other institutions via video calls. I also spend time mentoring graduate students and postdocs in my lab.
What skills are most important for success in your field?
Critical thinking and attention to detail are essential — in research, small errors can lead to big problems. But equally important is resilience. Most experiments don't work the first time, or the tenth time. You have to be comfortable with failure and treat it as data. Communication skills are also crucial; you need to be able to explain complex ideas clearly, whether to colleagues, funders, or the public.
How can young people explore careers in biology and medicine?
Look for summer research programs — many universities offer them for high school students, often with stipends. Programs like NIH's SPARK or local university REU programs are great entry points. Also, don't underestimate the value of volunteering at hospitals or clinics. Even reading scientific articles online through PubMed or following science communicators on social media can spark your interest and build your knowledge.