From Pandemic to Purpose: Hampton University Grad Shane Taylor’s Ascent to Immunology Inspired by COVID-19
17 Junio 2024 - 3:46PM
At Hampton University, Shane Taylor stands for having the third
highest GPA within the School of Science, (the top student in the
Department of Biology) and also for his profound dedication to
immunological research, a passion ignited during the unsettling
days of the COVID-19 pandemic. Taylor's journey through the
pandemic has shaped his academic and career aspirations, leading
him towards a future in vaccine development.
Originally from Prince George’s County, MD, Taylor was deeply
impacted by the global health crisis during what he refers to as
his "COVID class" experience. His freshman year transitioned
entirely online due to the pandemic, and further sparked his
interest in the intricacies of immunology and the pivotal role of
vaccines in public health.
Taylor's interest in science isn't new. His first publication as
a co-author came during his freshman year at Hampton, stemming from
high school research. The paper, led by his mentor Dr. Mark Berk,
focused on the neurological effects of HIV in pediatric patients.
"The reduced neuronal population of the dorsolateral pre-frontal
cortex in HIV infected individuals" explores how HIV degrades
neurons in children infected by their mothers, affecting their
developing behaviors.
"The COVID-19 pandemic heavily influenced my decision to study
immunology," Taylor shared. "It inspired me that researchers had
been preparing for potential outbreaks for decades. What most saw
as a swift development of COVID vaccines was the culmination of
years of prepared work.
“I chose Hampton University because of the strong biology
program and Hampton’s U Rise program,” said Taylor. “Through U
Rise, I have attended and presented at conferences across the
country, gaining the tools necessary for my doctoral studies.”
Hampton University’s U Rise program provides extensive research
opportunities and supports students aiming for Ph.D.'s or
M.D.-Ph.D.’s.
"Shane has been a standout student in our School of Science,
consistently demonstrating a deep commitment to advancing his
knowledge towards challenging issues in STEM,” said Isi
Ero-Johnson, Ph., dean, Hampton University School of Science. “His
proactive approach to research and his passion for immunology are
commendable. As he moves forward to Dartmouth, we wish him
innovative solutions to the challenges in vaccine development and
disease prevention."
In the fall, Taylor will attend Dartmouth College to focus on
immunology, specifically targeting infectious diseases and the
immune responses they trigger. "At Dartmouth, researchers have laid
a critical foundation for mRNA vaccines, including the COVID
vaccine," said Taylor, underscoring the importance of continuing
this innovative work.
Beyond academics, Taylor has been an active member of the
Hampton community. His involvement in the Hampton University
Marching Force brought him life-long friendships and afforded him
opportunities and unique experiences like the Macy’s Thanksgiving
Day Parade in New York and traveling to Rome for performances.
Reflecting on his time at Hampton, Taylor said he appreciates
the tight-knit community at Hampton and the preparation it provided
him to thrive in any environment.
"Hampton taught me that I am my biggest advocate and that It’s
crucial to be resilient, determined, and to hold oneself to a
higher standard," said Taylor. “Because of my time here at Hampton,
learning from and working with top-notch faculty/scientists, I know
that I am prepared to thrive in any environment during my
career.
As Shane Taylor looks to the future, his goals are clear: to
advance the field of immunology and develop vaccines that combat
diseases like HIV, influenza, and COVID-19. His journey reflects
the embodies Hampton University’s standard of excellence and an
unwavering commitment to the betterment of our global
community.
ABOUT HAMPTON UNIVERSITY
Hampton University, a dynamic historically Black institution
with a legacy of excellence in education, research, and community
service, provides a nurturing and empowering environment for
students to thrive academically and personally. Founded in 1868,
Hampton emphasizes a scientific and professional curriculum with a
strong liberal arts undergirding, offering a broad range of
technical, liberal arts and graduate degree programs. With a
commitment to inclusion and innovation, Hampton continues to be a
beacon of educational leadership in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Named “Best Private College” in Virginia, HU is a tightly-knit
community of learners and educators representing 49 states and 35
territories and nations. With a commitment to fostering
intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and global citizenship,
Hampton University prepares students to thrive in an ever-changing
world. Visit www.hamptonu.edu.
- From Pandemic to Purpose: Hampton University Grad Shane
Taylor’s Ascent to Immunology Inspired by COVID-19
- From Pandemic to Purpose: Hampton University Grad Shane
Taylor’s Ascent to Immunology Inspired by COVID-19
Sarita Scott
Hampton University, Office of University Relations
7577275253
davida.plummer@hamptonu.edu