Ethan Ecsedy ’26: Oncology Research Intern at Mass General Brigham, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
By Ethan Ecsedy ’26
Mass General Brigham, in affiliation with Harvard Medical School, is a leader in cutting-edge medical research, patient care, and education. With a mission to advance health through innovation and discovery, the institution supports world-class research aimed at improving clinical outcomes.
As an Oncology Research Intern, I worked on a project focused on prostate cancer biology. I independently maintained and conducted assays on 2D HEK-293T cell cultures and 3D prostate organoid cultures—models that mimic the in vivo tumor microenvironment. Additionally, I performed a comparative genomic analysis of the TMPRSS-2 gene in humans and mice, a gene implicated in prostate cancer and relevant for preclinical model development.
This experience taught me that I enjoy working in fast-paced, research-driven environments where problem-solving and curiosity are key. It also reinforced my desire to pursue a career in biomedical research or medicine. I developed several new skills, including sterile technique, organoid culture, genetic analysis, and scientific communication.
One of the highlights of my internship was presenting my findings on the inhibitory targets of the TMPRSS-2 gene, which have potential therapeutic indications for prostate cancer patients as a novel drug.
Overall, this internship was a formative step in my academic and professional journey in the life sciences.
Internship funded by Peter Buck Internship Fund