Sarah Thomas
Champaign
Summary
Motivated high school junior with a strong interest in embryology and microbiology, seeking an internship to explore these fields further and apply analytical skills gained through neuroimmunomodulation and blood-brain barrier research. Eager to gain hands-on experience by pursuing additional research projects under the guidance of expert researchers. Enthusiasm for learning and dedication to excellence will facilitate meaningful contributions in a professional research environment.
Overview
3
3
years of professional experience
Work History
Student Researcher
Toshiba/NSTA ExploraVision Competition
United States And Canada
10.2023 - Current
- Developed an 11-page research paper and 5 sample webpages detailing a futuristic technological breakthrough
- Collaborated with team of 3-4 students on multiple research projects to develop innovative solutions
- MedInnova: Nasal spray that prevents microplastic particles from entering the respiratory system (received Certificate of Participation and Honorable Mention in 7th-9th grade division in 2023)
- NeuroNurture: A headband integrated with AI technology to coach emotional regulation in children with autism (received Certificate of Participation and Honorable Mention in 7th-9th grade division in 2024)
- NOD-MA: Micropatch vaccine model that develops immunity to noma (received Certificate of Participation in 10th-12th grade division in 2025)
Volunteer
Carle Foundation Hospital
Urbana, IL
05.2023 - Current
- Interacted with patients in Observation units, stocked carts, and maintained cleanliness of surfaces to enhance patient experience in Inpatient D.
- Guided patients and visitors to appropriate locations, in coordination with front desk staff.
- Wheeled patients to cars, stocked carts, and cleaned rooms to ensure readiness for patient visits at Digestive Health Institute.
- Packed equipment when department moved floors, stocked carts, cleaned rooms before and after patient visits in Family Medicine department
- Created cards, posters, and crochet projects to uplift patients' and staff morale in hospital.
- Entertained patients and staff by performing piano pieces, creating a welcoming atmosphere in Carle’s North Star Café.
Student Researcher
Scientific Research Methodology Class
University Laboratory High School, Urbana IL
01.2026 - 05.2026
- Analyzed 100+ peer-reviewed articles on neuroimmunomodulatory mechanisms in blood-brain barrier permeability, identifying critical gaps in existing research
- Synthesized secondary research to develop a hypothesis stating: “If protective neuroimmunomodulatory mechanisms exist at the blood-brain barrier, then blood-brain barrier permeability to the neuroparasite Toxoplasma gondii decreases over time.”
- Developed a hypothetical experiment to assess blood-brain barrier permeability to T. gondii over time, contributing to understanding of neuroparasite interactions
- Authored literature review titled: “Neuroimmunomodulation of Focal Adhesions at the Blood-Brain Barrier to Prevent Onset of Latent Toxoplasmosis,” synthesizing findings to inform future research.
Volunteer
Uni High Summer Camp
University Laboratory High School, Urbana IL
06.2024 - 07.2024
- Conducted educational blood typing labs for elementary- and middle-school participants, enhancing their understanding of biology and hands-on science experience.
Education
High School Diploma -
University Laboratory High School
Urbana, IL05-2028
Skills
- Data collection, organization, and analysis
- Secondary research
- Scientific writing
- MLA/APA citation formatting
- Microscopy
- Pipetting
- Typesetting
Independent Study
- AP Biology, 05/05/2025
Scored 5
- AP Chemistry, 05/05/2026
Scored 5
- ALEKS PPL Mathematics Assessment Exam, 02/02/2026
Scored 98%, and selected to enroll in Calculus 1
Accomplishments
Perry Initiative:
- Accepted to a highly selective event, capped at 40 attendees, to explore the field of orthopedic surgery through mock simulation labs and guest speakers
Science Olympiad:
- Collaboratively studied with groups of 4+ high schoolers, covering different branches of biology and chemistry
- Accepted to be captain of a high school team consisting of 30 students
8th grade:
- Competed on the high school's junior varsity team and middle school team
- Placed second for “Anatomy & Physiology” and “Forestry” at Regional competition
- Placed 9th for “Can’t Judge a Powder” in middle school division at State competition
9th grade:
- Competed on the high school's junior varsity team
- Placed first for “Microbe Mission”, “Chem Lab”, “Forensics,” and “Materials Science” at Regional competition
- Competed on varsity as an alternate, placed 3rd for Chem Lab at State competition
10th grade:
- Competed on the high school's varsity team
- Placed first for “Anatomy & Physiology”, “Chem Lab”, and “Designer Genes” at Regional competition
Timeline
Student Researcher
Scientific Research Methodology Class
01.2026 - 05.2026
Volunteer
Uni High Summer Camp
06.2024 - 07.2024
Student Researcher
Toshiba/NSTA ExploraVision Competition
10.2023 - Current
Volunteer
Carle Foundation Hospital
05.2023 - Current
High School Diploma -
University Laboratory High School