Marshall University’s new B.S. to Ph.D. Biomedical Research Program is a collaborative initiative between the Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine and College of Science. Designed to streamline the academic path for aspiring researchers, the program enables students to earn both degrees in just seven years—accelerating their journey toward impactful scientific careers. 

Hannah Turner of Matewan, West Virginia, is the first student to start the Ph.D. phase of this program. She recently shared her story through a Q & A.  

Tell us about yourself. 

I am a first-generation college student from Matewan, West Virginia. Despite growing up with limited resources, those around me fostered opportunities for my intellectual flourishment. Knowledge has always been associated with power and the capability to enact a leading purpose. My family recognized my potential, and my teachers acknowledged my role as a future leader.  

In June 2022, I was accepted into Marshall’s B.S./Ph.D. biomedical research program. At that moment, I inferred that my academic journey would become even more purposeful. I was right. I completed various research rotations and enrolled in graduate-level courses as an undergraduate student. I participated in discussions with students farther along in their graduate education, which helped me understand the path I was on and what it took to succeed. Collaborative discussion concerning scientific matters was very fruitful. I recognized how the findings of one scientist often build from the foundational ideas set by another who came before them. 

In the spring of 2025, I graduated with university honors through the Marshall University Honors College earning a B.S. in biological sciences. My area of emphasis was cell/molecular/medical biology with chemistry being my minor.  

While an undergraduate student, I served as the president of the Marshall University Astronomy Club. I hosted students from the Explorer Academy for astronomy lessons and telescope demonstrations. I organized astronomy activities at Highlawn Elementary School and Barboursville Park. I coordinated a virtual speaker series featuring astronomers from West Virginia University, Ohio State University, and the University of Kentucky. My experiences at this university are valued and have given me greater confidence regarding my developing position in academia and my research potential. 

What led you to your current educational journey in biomedical science and biomedical research? 

I have always appreciated scientific inquiry. At a very young age, the only thing that I wanted for Christmas was a microscope. I often enjoyed being outside, possessing curiosity for the life surrounding me. I was fascinated by the microscopic world that often went unseen by the majority. This fascination continued throughout my earlier years and into high school. While in middle school, a science teacher encouraged me to attend Marshall University for a science degree. My high school years solidified this. I was fortunate to have daily involvement in honors and advanced placement (AP) science courses. I particularly recall enjoying my biology courses and AP Chemistry. I competed twice in annual conventions for the WV State Beta Club, Division II of their Science category. I was recognized with various academic achievement awards, two being “Outstanding Achievement in AP Chemistry” and “Top Dual Credit Biology Student.”  

As I graduated from high school, I read more scientific literature concerning topics such as neurodevelopment and neurodegeneration. My passion for neuroscience work was recognized thereafter. I began work at the university with consideration of topics like silver nanoparticle bioaccumulation and hemifacial expressions. I then moved to consider the neurobiological effects of opioid exposure on neonates. I performed various microdissections of rodent prefrontal cortex, hippocampus, and amygdala for the assessment of protein concentration in tissue homogenates via a bicinchoninic acid (BCA) assay. I further practiced digital astrocyte reconstructions and confocal microscopy usage. More recently, I have strived to determine gut-brain axis functionality in various substance exposure paradigms, examining microbiome alterations and behavior exhibition, while considering age dependencies and sex-specific differences. I am very fortunate to work alongside Todd Davies Ph.D., associate director of research and development for the division of addiction sciences within the Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine and the principal investigator for my research projects. 

What is your career goal? 

I am now pursuing my Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Biomedical Research, having declared a neurobiology and addiction concentration. After publishing various high-quality papers, successfully defending my dissertation, and graduating from Marshall University for a second time, I will move for a postdoctoral fellowship. I have considered universities including Duke University, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Johns Hopkins University and Carnegie Mellon. Again, following successful completion, I have considered pursuing tenure-track while maintaining my own research lab. Later in my career, I have considered pursuing a directorial position for an established research institute. An ultimate career goal for any aspiring scientist is the Nobel Prize. 

Why did you choose Marshall?  What was your favorite experience so far? 

I chose Marshall University due to its proximity to my hometown. I understood the benefits of an in-state, undergraduate education that would permit my growth while still having comfort of location for any momentary setback.  

My favorite experience at the university has entailed my time spent in varied laboratories. I am able to reminisce on my personal growth from the first moment I entered a university laboratory to organizing preliminary findings for my own multi-phase project.  

Anything else you would like to share? 

I feel very fortunate and have relished the opportunities that I have had since arriving at Marshall University. It has been a time of growth, a time of reflection, and a time of optimism concerning where I can now see myself going.  

More About Hannah Turner  
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Date Posted: Thursday, July 17, 2025