Regis College announces that Princesa Gonzalez ’26, a biology major with a minor in Laboratory Operations Management and a Master of Public Health concentration in Epidemiology from Lares, Puerto Rico, has been selected as a mentee in the Novartis Biomedical Research Young Scientist Outreach Program.
The highly competitive program provides mentorship, hands-on experience, and professional networking opportunities for emerging scientists preparing to enter the biomedical and public health fields. For Gonzalez, the honor is the culmination of years of dedication to research, leadership, and mentorship at Regis.
“My Regis education has given me the scientific training and leadership skills I need to make use of opportunities like the Novartis Biomedical Research Young Scientist Outreach Mentorship Program,” Gonzalez said. “At Regis, I have had the opportunity to mentor other students, share my experiences, and develop as a mentor myself while working as a teaching assistant for the award-winning Lorraine's Leaders Program. These experiences taught me to consider science as a collaborative effort, to seek and provide guidance, and to strike a balance between curiosity and responsibility. These lessons, in my opinion, have directly prepared me for success in a mentoring environment where I may keep learning, developing, and making contributions to the scientific community.”
Gonzalez credits her involvement in Dr. Shannon Hogan’s research course as a defining moment in her academic journey. “After someone from Dr. Hogan's lab visited my First-Year Seminar class, I became involved in his research course. They talked about Laboratory Operations Management (LOM) and the research opportunities on campus through this course, and the majority of us in that class were majoring in biology. I was immediately inspired to get involved after learning about the practical experiences students were gaining.”
Her research experience has influenced her academic interests and prepared her for a future career in biomedical research and medicine.&
“This research experience has prepared me for a career in the field by teaching me how to think critically, adhere to proper lab protocols, and apply classroom knowledge to real-world scientific problems,” she shared. “It has improved my problem-solving abilities, increased my attention to detail, and taught me how to work collaboratively, all of which are necessary skills for a future career in medicine and biomedical research.”
Through her lab work, Gonzalez discovered key aspects of her own character and professional strengths. “This research has taught me that I am adaptable, patient, and genuinely interested in discovery, even when experiments do not go as planned. I also realized how much I enjoy the process of troubleshooting and problem solving in the lab. These experiences boosted my confidence in my scientific reasoning and leadership skills.”
Her research has already produced tangible results. “The research has yielded valuable data, improved lab procedures, and contributions to ongoing departmental projects. Furthermore, this course has led to other opportunities, such as presenting posters, giving talks, and participating in academic conferences. These experiences not only enhanced my resume but aided my professional development by teaching me how to communicate science clearly and confidently.”
Looking ahead, Gonzalez plans to continue her education by pursuing a Master of Public Health degree with a focus on Epidemiology while also working in the industry.
Gonzalez’s journey exemplifies Regis College’s mission to empower students through academic excellence, ethical leadership, and service to others. Her selection as a Novartis mentee reflects not only her individual accomplishments but also the strength of Regis College’s programs in the sciences and public health.
