Yan Xia is looking at cancer at the molecular level. Xia, doctoral student in biochemistry and biophysics, is studying ways to use small molecules to inhibit the effects of a protein that binds to RNA molecules and can allow tumors to grow. Xia described the RNA molecules as a key and RNA-binding proteins as a lock. His research focuses on one lock in particular, Musashi-1, which can trap a specific RNA molecule and contribute to the formation of tumors.

In first grade, when some kids were dreaming of being a veterinarian or a superhero, Sam Wagner already knew she wanted to be a lawyer. By her senior year, she was already gaining experience in the legal profession as an intern for an attorney in Paola. And it was through that experience that she learned about an opportunity at the University of Kansas to get on the fast track to a legal career. This year, Wagner is among a group of 20 freshmen in the new accelerated program to complete bachelor’s and law degrees at KU in just six years. This is the first year for the program, called LEAD (Legal Education Accelerated Degree).

Hometown: I’ve moved too many times to have one!

Majors: History, Chinese language & literature;

Minor: Indigenous studies

Internship title and organization: Intern for the Program in Latino History & Culture at the Smithsonian National Museum of American History (NMAH)