Summer research
Aug. 17, 2026
This summer, James Vargas ’28 took his interest in medicine and research to Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine, where he participated in the Lurie Cancer Center Summer Research Internship. James was placed in the lab of Amy Paller, MD, where he spent eight weeks conducting dermatology research focused on a pain pathway associated with a genetic blistering disorder. His summer research experience culminated in a final oral presentation titled: “Macrophage-Associated GPR183 Signaling as a Potential Neuroimmune Pain Pathway in Recessive Dystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa.” These experiences demonstrate how Augustana students put their education into action through meaningful research, professional experiences and career exploration.
Submitted by Beth Ford
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