From Science to Softball: Balancing Research, Academics, and Community at Emmanuel

In a laboratory at Harvard Medical School, just a short walk from Emmanuel College, Becca Markie '25, a senior biotechnology major, is helping to advance groundbreaking research on frontotemporal dementia and ALS.

With determination and enthusiasm inspired by the city around her, Becca is chasing scientific solutions with potential to change lives.

“It’s a really promising project,” Becca said, describing her work in Dr. Isaac Chiu’s neuroimmunology lab at Harvard. “We’re testing treatments that could knock down a protein we believe is specifically activated in patients with these diseases.”

Becca’s work has already attracted attention, with her supervisor presenting their findings at a recent conference. The research involves partnerships with Boston Children’s Hospital and UMass Chan Medical School, where experimental drugs are designed. For Becca, this internship represents the culmination of years of academic and professional growth, supported in no small part by Emmanuel College’s unique resources and community.

A Scholar with a Competitive Edge

Becca’s scientific achievements are only part of her story. As the recipient of the prestigious Merck Scholarship, she’s been able to take a deep dive into her research and academic pursuits without the financial burden that many students face.

“The Merck Scholarship has been a huge relief,” Becca shared. “It’s allowed me to focus on my academics and take on unpaid internships, like the one I’m doing now at Harvard. Without it, I wouldn’t have been able to pursue some of these opportunities. It’s taken a lot of weight off my shoulders—and my parents’ too.”

Her academic journey also includes two additional minors in Global and Public Health and Sociology, which complement her biotechnology major. Becca’s internships span industry and academia: gene therapy research at Sarepta Therapeutics in Burlington, Mass., and cancer immunotherapy work at UConn Health. Each experience has reinforced her desire to continue in research and pursue a PhD.

A Home on the Field

Off the lab bench, Becca has spent four years as a standout member of Emmanuel’s softball team, playing second base and building bonds that have defined her college experience. “Being part of a team of 20 people you spend 20 hours a week with builds strong connections that make it hard to leave,” she said.

Her role on the team is just one way Becca has contributed to the Emmanuel community. She also works in Game Day Operations, assisting with scoreboard management and other logistical tasks during campus sporting events.

Why Emmanuel?

For Becca, choosing Emmanuel was as much about community as it was about academics. A self-described “city girl,” she was drawn to the College’s location in the heart of Boston’s Longwood Medical Area, but the decision to attend went beyond geography.

“My dad is a softball coach, and he’s sent a few players to Emmanuel over the years, so it was on my radar,” Becca explained. “When I visited, I fell in love with the campus. It’s beautiful and has a strong sense of place—it’s not spread out like some urban schools. Plus, the faculty here are incredible.”

One mentor, Dr. Padraig Deighan, stands out. “He’s been there for me since day one,” she said. “I met him during my campus tour, and he painted Emmanuel in such a positive light. Since then, he’s encouraged me to take advantage of opportunities, like the PEER->CELL program, which helped me secure my internships. He’s so committed to making the biology program the best it can be.”

Looking Ahead

As graduation approaches, Becca is applying to competitive PhD programs, with the understanding that her path may take her first to a research assistantship. “My Plan B is to find a job doing benchwork at an academic institution,” she said. “That way, I can build my resume and get some papers published before reapplying to PhD programs.”

While her future remains open, one thing is clear: Emmanuel College has equipped Becca Markie with the skills, connections, and confidence to thrive, whether in a research lab or on the softball field.

“Here at Emmanuel, I can’t even leave my apartment without seeing someone I know,” Becca said. “It’s such a strong, supportive community. I’ll miss that most of all”.