Dasha Jackson Is Exploring How Biotechnology Can Change the Future

For Dasha Jackson, biotechnology has always been about possibility.

Growing up in Ambridge, Pennsylvania, Dasha was fascinated by biotechnology products and especially interested in how vaccines are developed and tested. When she began looking for a program that would allow her to explore that interest, Duquesne University’s Biotechnology program stood out.

“I chose Duquesne University because it felt like home to me. The Biotechnology program allows graduates to pursue careers in either the research aspects of biotechnology or the regulatory aspects of biotechnology.”

Now a Biotechnology student in the School of Science and Engineering, Dasha is gaining the knowledge, experience and connections to pursue a career in an industry where scientific discovery can directly impact people’s lives.

Exploring Where Science Can Lead

One of the things that attracted Dasha to Duquesne’s Biotechnology program was its breadth. That range has allowed Dasha to discover interests she hadn't initially expected to pursue.

In a regulatory course and product development course, she worked with classmates on a project that required them to develop an idea for a biotechnology medical device and take it through the process of FDA submission.

The project gave Dasha a new perspective on everything that happens between a scientific idea and bringing a product to the people who need it.

“I got to truly see how much goes into the production of new drugs, new vaccines, new medical devices, and how much goes into getting approval from the FDA to market your product,” she said.

The experience sparked an interest in the regulatory side of biotechnology while reinforcing her desire to contribute to the development of vaccines and drugs.

For Dasha, that experience is an example of how a horizon-expanding education can open doors to possibilities students may not have considered before.

Learning Together and Building Connections

For Dasha, some of the most valuable parts of her Duquesne experience have happened outside of traditional coursework.

“Having connections I have made since I joined the program has been my favorite part,” she said. “These connections will continue to develop and could turn into opportunities that I never knew were possible.”

Collaborative projects have given Dasha the chance to work closely with other students and learn about their experiences, backgrounds and career goals. Those relationships have become an important part of her education—and connections she hopes will continue long after graduation.

Her relationships with faculty have been just as influential.

“My professors and mentors have given me the tools, confidence and encouragement to succeed not only within the classroom, but out in the real world.”

That encouragement has helped Dasha take on challenges, build confidence and think differently about what she might pursue after graduation.

Prepared for Anything in a Changing Field

Biotechnology is a field defined by constant discovery and innovation. For Dasha, learning to adapt is an essential part of preparing for a career in the industry.

“My advice to prospective students would be to be ready for anything, especially with how fast things change in the scientific community,” she said.

Her experiences at Duquesne have helped her develop the confidence and skills to approach challenges head-on. Faculty encouragement during presentations and other challenging experiences even pushed Dasha to consider a teaching pathway—an opportunity she had not previously envisioned for herself.

She has also learned that preparation extends beyond technical knowledge.

“More importantly, I would tell prospective students to make connections with people in your courses and your professors because they are the ones that can help you reach your goals,” Dasha said.

Turning Possibilities Into Impact

Dasha expects to graduate from Duquesne in Spring 2027. After graduation, she plans to pursue opportunities in the biotechnology field while continuing her work as a Laboratory Support Coordinator at La Roche University. She is also considering pursuing a Ph.D.

Whatever path she chooses, Dasha is motivated by the potential to make a meaningful difference through biotechnology.

“I think I am the most excited for the potential role I can play in the development of a future vaccine for a disease that currently does not have one, and how impactful that can be for the world,” she said. “Additionally, I am excited to see all the new innovations that are going to be developed as time progresses.”

That sense of possibility is shaping Dasha's vision for her future—and her experience at Duquesne has helped her see just how many paths are available.

The Biotechnology program has encouraged her to think beyond what she originally imagined for herself, develop relationships that can support her goals and build the confidence to pursue new challenges.

Her advice to students considering biotechnology is simple: start with what you want to accomplish and find the education that can help you get there.

“You can achieve whatever it is that you would like,” Dasha said. “Use the goals you want to achieve to determine if the program would be the best to assist you in doing that.”

For Dasha, that journey is already underway. And with a rapidly evolving field ahead of her, she is ready to see where biotechnology can take her.