Meet Ms. Kareena Joseph, a sophomore majoring in biology at the University of California, Riverside. She dreams of becoming a clinician in the future.

In the United States, it is common to enter medical school after completing an undergraduate degree. During college, students are expected to gain hands-on experience through volunteering at medical institutions and participating in research activities.

“Instead of volunteering in hospitals, I studied in a program outside of my school where I earned a certificate as a Clinical Medical Assistant. Through my working experiences, I was able to observe and engage with the medical field.”

Kareena Joseph
University of California, Riverside
Biology Major, Sophomore

Through the Uehiro Future Scientists Program, Ms. Joseph learned how to culture iPS cells, establish iPS cells using episomal plasmid vectors, and introduce mRNA into human cells. She also participated in experiments investigating how variants of reprogramming factors affect the efficiency of iPS cell generation.

“Since I’m still new to research, I asked a lot of questions during the program. I was worried at first—wondering if it was okay to ask such basic things—but everyone was so kind and welcoming. They encouraged me to take part in the experiments and made sure I had my turn. I’m grateful for that.”

As she conducted these experiments, Ms. Joseph deepened her understanding of the purpose behind each procedure and the science that supports them. She also learned about how mRNA is involved in cell reprogramming and the mechanisms behind vaccines.

“What I love about biology is how it connects to so many things. You get to learn about how the human body works—your own and your patients’. It’s also a field where new technologies are constantly emerging, and there are so many career paths to explore.”

Before joining the program, she had never worked directly with iPS cells. However, learning about the CiRA Foundation initially sparked her interest and excited her to know more about the activities. During her internship, she read the foundation’s publications, which deepened her appreciation for research and development and gave her a greater understanding of the potential of iPS cells.

“When I was given this opportunity to investigate and assist in improving iPS cells, it sparked my interest in regenerative medicine, as I believe it holds tremendous potential for the future. Here, I was able to tie my medical experiences with what I’ve learned through this month’s internship, making it especially meaningful and exciting.”

Her long-term goal is to pursue an MD to become a physician, and she hopes to work as a clinician who can connect her own research with medical practice.

“If I were to become a researcher from the start, I think I’d be overwhelmed by the endless possibilities for research topics. But if I base my research on the questions that arise while treating patients, I can narrow down my focus and conduct studies that directly benefit them.”

Kareena visited Japan as a child and shared how she was once again touched by the kindness of the people she met during her recent stay.

“I thought I was used to trains and bullet trains. But when I first arrived in Japan, I got on the wrong train and was really confused. A nearby passenger noticed and tried their best to help me, even though she didn’t speak English. I was so moved by how kind everyone was.”

The CiRA Foundation will continue to support the career development of undergraduate and graduate students through the Uehiro Future Scientists Program.