Investigating Environmental Impacts on Breast Health

Through a combination of rigorous coursework, hands-on thesis research, and strong mentorship, Mel Seraj used Tufts’ MS in Biomedical Research (MBR) program to transition from industry experience to academic research and PhD training. By investigating how environmental exposures affect breast tissue development, Seraj gained advanced data science and epigenomics skills while building a strong foundation for doctoral study at Tufts.

What drew you to the MS in Biomedical Research (MBR) program at Tufts?

"A key factor was the program’s strong emphasis on a lab-based thesis. I was looking for a graduate program that combined rigorous coursework with hands-on academic research, particularly because much of my prior experience was in industry. The program’s location in Boston and its affiliation with Tufts Medical Center also stood out, creating a strong biomedical research environment that directly supported my work. Together, these elements provided the academic research training I was seeking and helped prepare me for pursuing a PhD."

Can you briefly describe your thesis research project?

"My thesis focused on understanding how endocrine-disrupting chemicals affect the development of healthy breast tissue. I used a three-dimensional organoid model to study how these environmental exposures may influence breast development. With breast cancer cases increasing each year, my goal was to better understand how environmental factors contribute to disease risk."

What skills or techniques did you develop through your research experience in the MBR program?

"I was especially interested in expanding my coding and data analysis skills. Through a data science course in the program, I learned how to analyze sequencing data, which directly supported the epigenomic analysis conducted for my thesis. This training strengthened my ability to integrate computational approaches with experimental research."

How did the structure of the MBR program prepare you for this research?

"The program is designed to build a strong scientific foundation while emphasizing communication skills, both of which were critical to my research. Coursework in cell biology, genetics, and biochemistry helped translate scientific questions into experimental approaches. Journal club training improved my ability to critically evaluate scientific literature, which shaped how I developed and refined research questions. The program also provided instruction in writing specific aims and grant proposals, which directly supported my thesis and publications. In addition, forming a thesis advisory committee gave me access to multiple mentors who guided my research and supported my long-term goals."

What surprised you most about your experience in the MBR program?

"I was surprised by the breadth of opportunities available beyond the lab and classroom. MBR students benefit from many GSBS offerings, including data and writing workshops, career panels, student organizations, outreach activities, and teaching opportunities. Some of my most meaningful experiences included attending career panels with Tufts alumni and teaching science to children at the Cambridge Community Center."

Where are you heading next, and what will you be studying?

"I will be continuing my graduate training at Tufts as a PhD student in the Genetics, Molecular and Cellular Biology (GMCB) program. I’m excited to build on the foundation established during the MBR program and continue developing as a researcher."

How did the MBR program prepare you for PhD-level training and the application process?

"Taking courses and conducting research alongside PhD students provided insight into the expectations and rigor of doctoral training. These experiences strengthened my confidence in scientific knowledge, communication skills, and laboratory techniques. MBR faculty and peers were also highly supportive during the PhD application process, offering feedback on application materials and conducting practice interviews to help me clearly articulate my goals."

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