On this episode of White Coat Wednesday, we sit down with Seth Kazmer, a UQ-Ochsner fourth-year medical student, and we discuss research during medical studies.
Seth completed a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) with an emphasis on Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, followed by a Master of Science in Environmental Toxicology both at UC Irvine. His interest in medicine was sparked by having an older sibling with health issues and solidified in College when he discovered how science could be used to help people in powerful ways. From there, it was no surprise that Seth was inspired to pursue a research path and explore the limitless possibilities that science offers. The UQ-Ochsner program came to his attention through a friend who was doing a PhD the opportunity to study on two continents really appealed to him and his sense of adventure.
We discuss the quality of the program and some of the unique aspects of the curriculum such as the inclusion of Medical Ethics and Law throughout the medical study journey, creating depth to an already robust medical training.
Seth took a year off during his medical studies (between year 2 and 3) to focus on research and worked at the QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute in Brisbane as a Research Associate. His work focused on the development of rapid saliva screening method for SARS-CoV-2 infection and the characterization of pathophysiology states using Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy.
Already a multiple award recipient (best Medical Student Presentation at the Ochsner Research Day 2022 and best Trainee for Research 2023), Seth is working towards passing the USMLE Step 2 Clinical Knowledge exam and is hoping to Match into Neurology.
