GiS Spotlight: Finsam Samson, 2016 Genes in Space Finalist

I am Finsam Samson, a student at Troy High School in Troy, MI. I first learned about the Genes in Space competition in my school. When I looked at their website, the competition really interested me. I began researching different topics and then developed a research proposal for submission.

My research proposal utilizes PCR aboard the ISS to measure oxidative stress in the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans, by measuring the expression of specific genes that help to counter oxidative stress. The anticipated outcome of this research is to provide a platform for further studies on oxidative stress in astronauts, and potential therapeutic approaches to prevent it.

While brainstorming for a proposal submission, I decided to work on a proposal that would improve astronaut health in the long run. While researching the unique effects of space, I found that though there was evidence to support that microgravity and cosmic radiation cause an increase in oxidative stress, the studies were not conducted in real-time. Oxidative stress leads to many adverse health effects, which is why countering it in space benefits astronaut health. I decided that developing a real-time assay to monitor astronaut health would significantly aid in prescribing antioxidants for astronauts, at the correct dosage to meet their individual requirements.

I decided to work in the general category of improving astronaut health because doing so would increase the possibility of future long-term spaceflight. Specifically, I chose to work on using PCR to monitor oxidative stress in real-time, so that medications to counter oxidative stress in astronauts can be prescribed accurately.

I submitted my proposal as a solo entrant but had the support of my family and school. After becoming a finalist I was assigned Anton Aboukhalil as mentor, a Ph.D. student at MIT’s Aeronautics and Astronautics department and conducted his thesis at Harvard Medical School.

Working with Anton was a great experience, and his input and guidance raised my proposal’s quality significantly. He was very committed, knowledgeable, and encouraging. With his guidance, I could adjust my proposal to make it even more viable to conduct aboard the ISS and have a greater impact.

At the ISS R&D Conference, I engaged with members of the ISS community, learned about various research taking place aboard the ISS, and met other Genes in Space teams. In addition, I presented my proposal to experts in the field. It was a wonderful experience and one that I will never forget.

My advice to future contestants is to work hard throughout the competition, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. There are many people you can ask for help, but it ultimately comes down to you.