A biochemist who earned his bachelor’s, master’s and PhD in biochemistry — all at Pacific, credits the university for preparing him for his next step: a postdoctoral research fellowship at one of the leading cancer research centers in the world, the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.
Andrew Parkins, who earned his doctorate in biochemistry in May, will focus on molecular immunology. He says Pacific helped him develop a solid research foundation as well as his love of science.
“At Pacific, I learned new things, taught myself, learned from others, and delved into unknown territories,” Andrew said. “This is where my love for science truly blossomed.”
“This opportunity highlights that we are capable of producing Harvard-level research at the University of the Pacific, and it’s gratifying to see that recognized.”
Andrew Parkins
Pacific’s small classes; hands-on learning opportunities
Andrew grew up in Lodi and says he chose Pacific because of its outstanding academic reputation and dedication to the community. Throughout his time here, he came to recognize the benefit of Pacific’s smaller classes.
“[They] allow you to stand out by being curious, asking good questions and wanting to learn more,” Andrew said. “This personalized attention is what got me into research as an undergraduate, which eventually led to my graduate studies here. It is what really kept me on track.”
Andrew took advantage of Pacific’s myriad hands-on learning experiences throughout his undergraduate years. He joined research labs and participated in the Stauffer Fellowship, which allowed him to finish his undergraduate work a semester early. At the end of that fellowship, Andrew started to work with Professor Georgios Pantouris, who specializes in protein and cancer research.
As a graduate student, Andrew worked in the lab specifically with proteins related to inflammatory diseases and cancer. One of the most important tools he and Pantouris used was the active programmable logic controller, which allowed them to select proteins. They also relied on plate readers and two computers for every project—what they refer to as the “big three essential tools.” Additionally, they had the unique opportunity to produce protein crystals and collect data on them at the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory.
Research alongside chemistry professors
Andrew’s experience in Pantouris’ lab was not only one of mentorship but also friendship.
“Professor George P. has always been there for me, fostering a relationship that feels more like having a big brother than just a mentor,” Andrew said. “His advice, whether on a personal level or regarding an experiment, has always been invaluable. George has truly been there for me, no matter what.”
As a postdoctoral research fellow at Dana-Farber, a cancer research institute associated with Harvard Medical School, Andrew will focus on molecular immunology. While he does not have extensive experience in the field, Andrew believes the research background he gained at Pacific — with mentors like Pantouris — has helped him create a solid foundation for the techniques necessary.
“This opportunity highlights that we are capable of producing Harvard-level research at the University of the Pacific, and it’s gratifying to see that recognized,” says Andrew.
Andrew hopes to build on what he’s learned at Pacific and Dana-Farber in the future. His love for research and continual work toward discovering new drugs for conditions previously considered untreatable have helped him discover his own goal—to start his own lab.
Andrew all the hard work 24 hours a day you have not allowed anything to come between you and your schooling, Thank You for being my and Nana’s Granson so proud of your accomplishments.