Halvorsen Lab Spotlight with Research Support Specialist Dadrian Cole '23

By Erin Frick

ALBANY, N.Y. (March 27, 2025) — University at Albany’s Ken Halvorsen, a senior research scientist at the RNA Institute in the College of Arts and Sciences, is leading efforts to develop DNA nanodevices designed to detect biomarkers like proteins and RNAs that can signal disease. His lab is also developing novel microscopy tools to better understand interactions among biomolecules.

Dadrian Cole began working as a research assistant in the Halvorsen lab as an undergraduate. After completing her BS in Biology in 2023, the Clarendon, Jamaica, native has continued her work in the lab, serving as a research support specialist while preparing to begin medical school later this year.

Before embarking on this new chapter, Cole shared insights on her newly published research, her experience in the Halvorsen lab and how working at the intersection of nanoscience and medicine has shaped her future career goals.

How did you get involved as a researcher in the Halvorsen lab?

I began my research journey by reaching out to scientists in the Life Sciences departments at UAlbany whose work intrigued me. After sending personalized emails detailing my specific interests and background, Dr. Halvorsen offered me the opportunity to join his lab.

As a member of the Halvorsen lab, I have been studying DNA nanotechnology and worked on a project focusing on fine-tuning the stability of a particular type of DNA nanostructure for potential biomedical applications. I decided to continue working in the Halvorsen lab after completing my undergraduate degree because Dr. Halvorsen and my mentor, Dr. Jibin Punnoose, created a positive environment that encouraged critical thinking and lab skill development. Their support transformed my initial curiosity into a passion, motivating me to dedicate another year to continue working on my newfound passion project.

What has your recent research focused on?

I recently co-led a study, published last month the journal Nano Letters, which explored how "stacking interactions" between adjacent DNA strands influence the stability of DNA tetrahedra — a particular nanostructure shape that we work with in the field of nanostructure design. 

Our findings demonstrate that these interactions contribute to the stability of DNA nanostructures, and their stability can be fine-tuned by modifying certain stacking interactions. This insight highlights the potential of stacking interactions as a design parameter to enhance the stability and assembly of DNA-based nanostructures, with possible applications in biological and medical fields. In the future, this work could potentially inform research related to drug delivery systems, biosensors, diagnostics and other applications in structural DNA nanotechnology.

I am especially intrigued by how this data can be expanded to enhance research on nanostructures used for targeted drug delivery. Fine-tuning stability via base stacking interactions could enable the development of more robust and adjustable delivery vehicles. If this application is possible, it may support developments in biomedical research including efforts to enhance disease treatments with new types of drug carriers. This approach could help better protect the drug being delivered and improve the specificity of certain treatments. 

Why is this work important to you?

This work became important to me because of how it sits at the intersection of fundamental science and real-world application, offering exciting possibilities for the ambitious vision I have for the future of medicine and beyond. Knowing that this work goes beyond just myself and may one day contribute to advancements made in the field of DNA nanotechnology makes it especially meaningful. This work also confirmed my broader interest in translational research as I recognized its importance in bridging the gaps between scientific discovery and medical innovation to make a tangible difference in the health of patients. 

Why do you enjoy most about research?

I enjoy research because it involves a good blend of stimulating my curiosity and hands-on discovery. Additionally, I enjoyed the collaboration aspect of research — the act of coming together as a team to brainstorm ideas made completing each experiment a rewarding and fulfilling experience.

For any undergraduates interested in giving research a try, I’d recommend seeking out research opportunities early because these experiences can provide clarity towards choosing a career direction. Personally, early exposure to research helped me to resolve my own dilemma between pursuing research or medicine. This approach gave me the confidence I needed to explore both paths on different scales with patient care being my main focus. As I consider my future career trajectory as a physician, my intention is to continue engaging in research while also serving patients.

What drew you to study biology at UAlbany?

I chose UAlbany for its clear commitment to diversity, its supportive environment for all students, and its strong emphasis on the importance of research. When selecting schools, I sought out an institution that prioritized both academic excellence and student well-being. UAlbany stood out as it offered that balance, allowing me to comfortably expand my thinking and sharpen my leadership skills while I prepared for the next steps in my journey toward medical school.

I was drawn to biology because it always felt like the major that nurtured my burning curiosity about the world around me. It offered a deeper understanding of the mechanisms that drive life and disease, which is a fascination I wanted to explore.