Serena Helewicz

Name/Pronouns: Serena Helewicz (She/Her/Hers)

Major(s): Biochemistry & Psychology

Mentor: Dr. Alicia Bolt (College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences)

Current Research Title: The Effects of Cadmium on Adipogenesis and Breast Cancer Metastasis to the Bone Niche

Description: My research explores how the heavy metal cadmium contributes to the progression and metastasis of breast cancer, with a particular focus on its role in promoting metastasis to the bone. Cadmium is a widespread environmental contaminant used in industries such as agriculture, paints, and metal alloys, leading to frequent human exposure. This project investigates the mechanisms by which cadmium-induced bone marrow adipogenesis may facilitate breast cancer metastasis. The findings have the potential to inform future toxicological guidelines and identify thresholds for cadmium exposure that are especially critical for breast cancer patients.

When, how, why you got involved in research: Going into college, I had some very personal experience with cancer and knew I wanted to go into the oncology field, focusing on pediatric systemic cancers. Initially, I aspired to attend medical school and become a pediatric oncologist at UNM. However, after attending the 2023 UNM Health Professions Symposium, I realized my passion lay more in developing innovative cancer therapies than in clinical practice alone. This realization sparked a shift in my goals, and I decided to pursue an MD/PhD with the intent of leading translational oncology research that bridges the gap between laboratory discovery and patient care. With this new direction in mind, I actively sought out research opportunities through the URAD advising office. There, I was informed about various avenues for getting involved in research. The year after that, I applied to some of the programs recommended by URAD and was fortunate enough to be accepted into the URISE program, which allowed me to choose a lab that aligned with both my scientific interests and values. While I knew I wanted to work on cancer research, finding a supportive and intellectually engaging mentor was my top priority. Joining the Bolt lab has been one of the most pivotal decisions of my undergraduate career. As I begin my senior thesis in the Bolt lab this year, I’m filled with excitement for the work ahead.

Piece of advice: Get involved in research early and with a good mentor! I didn’t join research sooner because I assumed I needed to be in some kind of program to get any financial support, but that isn’t true.  Sometimes all you have to do is ask if your faculty mentor has any funding to pay you to work as a research assistant.