MD
Michael Desciak
  • chemical biology
  • Wilkes-Barre

Michael Desciak Participates in Summer Scholars Program

2013 Jul 16

While most college students have traded rigorous academic work for relaxing on the beach, Wilkes- Barre, Pa. resident Michael Desciak will give up summer vacation to remain on campus at Saint Joseph's University as a member of the Summer Scholars Program. Desciak is one of 114 students who will engage in faculty-mentored research and creative projects at the University this summer.

The program, which runs for 11 weeks from May until August, requires students to work exclusively with a faculty member to produce a written description of their research that will be published by the University, and to present their findings next spring during the Celebration of Student Achievement event. For their work, students receive a stipend, on-campus housing, and the opportunity to participate in social and educational programs.

Research topics range from local and national issues in the sciences, business, education and history to extended analysis of literature and fine arts.

Desciak, a Chemical Biology major, will work with Mark Reynolds, Ph.D. on their topic, "The biochemical mechanism of the Heme-based oxygen Sensor FixL from S. meliloti and the affects of anti-cancer inhibitors on Human IDO."

Background: Founded by the Society of Jesus in 1851, Saint Joseph's University advances the professional and personal ambitions of men and women by providing a demanding, yet supportive, educational experience. One of only 152 schools with a Phi Beta Kappa chapter and AACSB business school accreditation, Saint Joseph's is home to 4,650 traditional undergraduate day students, 700 College of Professional and Liberal Studies adult undergraduates, and 3,600 graduate and doctoral students. Steeped in the 450-year Jesuit tradition of scholarship and service, Saint Joseph's was named to the 2012 President's Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll for General Community Service. The University strives to be recognized as the preeminent Catholic comprehensive university in the Northeast.