Sofiya Ismagilova, a junior biochemistry major, is driven by her goals to make significant contributions to the field of drug delivery. Her experience in the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine Summer Internship Program (BSI-SIP) shaped her interest in next-generation medical solutions, where Ismagilova conducted advanced biomedical research using exosomes – naturally occurring, cell-made nanoparticles – as a super-neutral delivery platform. She worked to engineer proteins onto these particles to contribute to two cutting-edge projects: a liver cancer vaccine prototype and a universal vaccine platform proof of concept. This foundational experience earned her the highly competitive 2025 CARES scholarship, which she then ultimately presented at a symposium.
Building on this expertise, Ismagilova currently works in the Reineke Lab on polymer-based systems (synthetic materials) designed to safely deliver mRNA (genetic instructions) into cells. She is focused on the logistics of medical application, investigating how time and temperature affect the storage conditions and overall efficiency of these synthesized nanoparticles. Through both her research endeavors, Ismagilova has committed to the complex science of drug delivery, particularly the development of nanomedicines that offer high-impact solutions to diseases like cancer.
Research experiences didn’t come easy for Ismagilova at first, which ultimately inspired her to start a new student group, Catalyst Plus. The group aims to demystify the path to advanced research and education, foster resilience, and equip members with the skills and connections needed to succeed in STEM. The idea took root after she realized that even high-achieving students were often unaware of crucial steps like how to find research, apply for external internships, or navigate lab norms.
Looking ahead, Ismagilova plans to pursue a PhD to explore her interests in chemical development and drug discovery. Ultimately, Ismagilova aims to leverage her research experiences to create high-impact solutions for cancer. She is committed to fighting the disease both in the lab and through community outreach and hopes to change the narrative around a cancer diagnosis and aspires to develop translated educational resources for underserved communities. –Christy Hazuka