It all started with a simple conversation in a dorm hallway.

Before the research papers, the simulations, and the breakthrough moments, Brandon Bender’s decision to apply to the Teacher-Scholar program started with a conversation, a passing mention from a dormmate that planted a seed.

“I heard about the Teacher-Scholar Program from a colleague in my dorm,” he recalled. “I figured I would try it out.”

Brandon, a Physics and Astrophysics major with a minor in chemistry, was motivated to apply because he had a hunger for real-world scientific work. “I wanted practical experience in science,” he explained. Soon, he was paired with his mentor, Dr. Jordan Froese, marking the beginning of an unforgettable chapter.

Walking into a new lab can be daunting for anyone, and Brandon felt the same. “There were nerves, of course,” he admitted. “But I learned that it was nothing to be worried about.” The Teacher-Scholar Program quickly turned apprehension into excitement as he dove into computational research on engineered Toluene Dioxygenase variants. His work involved creating detailed figures of substrate tunnels inside the active sites of E. coli proteins, a blend of scientific precision and creative problem-solving.

As interesting as the work was, finding the balance between long hours of classes and going to the lab wasn’t as fun in the beginning, but he got into the flow in no time. Each week, Brandon devoted multiple sessions to research, juggling the demands of multiple projects. “Normally, I would show up three to four times a week and was typically assigned a random mutation. This mutation would then be rendered using several different software tools.” Managing the intense schedule proved challenging, but he navigated it with determination, building a comprehensive timetable that allowed him to stay on track and go on to enjoy many milestone moments in the program. 

One of his most satisfying milestones came early: “My favorite moment was the first time I got a simulation to work without a hiccup.” That breakthrough wasn’t just technical, it was emotional, reinforcing his growing confidence in his abilities. 

Working closely with Dr. Froese also left a lasting impact on Brandon. “I really gained an understanding of what a professional collaboration in a research context looks like,” he reflected. Through mentorship, he learned how to ask better questions, manage his time effectively, and see science not just as a subject, but as a living, breathing practice. By the end of his time in the Teacher-Scholar program, Brandon co-authored a peer-reviewed manuscript. 

The ripple effects of his experience are still evident today. Though he has since shifted fields, now researching eclipsing binary stars in astrophysics, the skills and mindset he developed during the Teacher-Scholar Program remain foundational. “I have continued doing research as I feel a lot less apprehensive joining new labs,” Brandon said. 

Beyond technical skills, the program sparked personal growth. “I would say I have changed a lot, and I understand the role of science in a larger context a lot better,” he noted. His experience also reshaped how he approaches academia, internships, and professional work, instilling habits of diligence and professionalism. 

When asked to sum up his experience in one word, his answer was immediate: “Professionalism.” 

For students considering the Teacher-Scholar Program, his advice is clear: “Make sure you do plenty of reading in the topic that you are going into. Truly make sure you have a good understanding, or as good of an understanding as you can, before joining a group.” He also noted that understanding the commitment required can make the journey even more rewarding. 

The Teacher-Scholar Program is more than a research opportunity. It’s a transformation, from student to scholar, from curious learner to confident professional. 

Students who are ready to step into their potential are encouraged to apply. And for faculty: if you see the spark of promise in your students, urge them to take this step. The Teacher-Scholar Program is not just about research; it’s about changing lives, one project at a time.