PRAIRIE VIEW, Texas (July 21, 2025) — For Autumn Sinclair, a senior biology major at Prairie View A&M University, the laboratory is more than just a place for experiments—it’s where science, curiosity and purpose come together.
Sinclair is a participant in PVAMU’s Faculty-RISE Program, where she collaborates with mentor Gloria Regisford, Ph.D., on cutting-edge nanomedicine research. Her current research project focuses on exploring the role of the PLIN2 gene in the development of uterine fibroids and endometrial cancer.
“Research has been such an eye-opening journey,” Sinclair said. “I’ve always been fascinated by science, and this internship showed me how creativity and curiosity fuel discovery. From mastering lab techniques like cell culture, Western blotting and PCR to diving into scientific journal articles, every part of the process has been exciting.”
Sinclair said one of the most rewarding aspects of her summer experience was the opportunity to collaborate with fellow students and mentors across two labs.
Faculty-RISE student Autumn Sinclair working in a lab on her nanomedicine research project.
“The highlights were teaching and learning alongside peers in Dr. Regisford’s lab at PVAMU and in the lab of Rajesh Miranda, Ph.D., at Texas A&M University,” she said. “The Miranda Lab team’s patience and guidance through unfamiliar techniques left a lasting impression. Their encouragement challenged me to think more critically, explore concepts more deeply and recognize that impactful research begins with bold, persistent questions.”
Regisford praised Sinclair’s contributions to the lab, highlighting both her skill and dedication.
“Mentorship has been the hallmark of my career, and it has indeed been a pleasure to mentor Autumn in my research lab,” Regisford said. “She quickly became an integral member of the ‘Regisford Lab Rats,’ mastering several cell biology techniques and contributing meaningfully to team-based research. Autumn’s initiative, collaborative spirit and enthusiasm for science exemplify the qualities we aim to foster through undergraduate research.”
Sinclair plans to pursue a master’s degree after graduation to continue developing her skills as a researcher. Her long-term goal is to make meaningful contributions to women’s health, with a focus on gynecologic oncology.
“I’m especially interested in how biological and social factors influence female reproductive cancers,” she said. “I hope to conduct research that not only advances scientific understanding but also improves health outcomes in underserved communities.”
The Faculty-RISE Program is led by PVAMU Vice President for Research and Innovation Magesh Rajan, Ph.D., P.E. The program supports students through research training, mentorship and interdisciplinary collaboration, preparing the next generation of scientists and innovators to lead transformative work at PVAMU and beyond.
By Joe McGinty