ABSN students explore research opportunities at UNC Biobehavioral Lab

This semester, Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) students from the NURS 302 course had the opportunity to tour the UNC Biobehavioral Lab, led by Grace Wu, PhD, RN, and the lab team. The lab, located in the ITS Manning Building, specializes in health-related research, utilizing advanced technology to study biomarkers and health behaviors.

The visit was organized by the Biobehavioral Lab team, including Director Dr. Rose Mary Xavier; Lab Manager Mathew Steadman; Research Specialist Dr. Chongben Zhang; Nursing PhD student Wenxin Bin; and Research Assistant Tany Pacchioni. During the tour, the team introduced students to ongoing research projects, demonstrated the lab’s equipment, and explained techniques such as gene expression analysis, PCR, and hair cortisol analysis, which are used to study stress markers and other health conditions.

Students also gained hands-on experience with non-invasive health devices used in research. Tools demonstrated included the Kardia EKG device for measuring heart activity, the WatchPAT ONE for sleep apnea tests, and a portable HbA1c device for blood sugar monitoring. These demonstrations provided students with practical insights into how these tools are applied in scientific studies.

Dr. Wu highlighted the significance of integrating research into nursing education. “I just want to let our ABSN students know that research is part of everyday life. As health scientists, we conduct research to improve human health. Research doesn’t have to be intimidating or difficult—it’s something we can all learn and be a part of. There are so many amazing researchers here at our school doing important work every day,” Dr. Wu said.

The tour is part of Dr. Wu’s broader efforts to connect ABSN students with research opportunities and mentorship. This semester, Dr. Wu co-teaches the NURS 302 course with Dr. Maureen Baker. Guest lectures from nursing faculty members and PhD students were included to share research journeys and projects, encouraging students to consider future collaborations with faculty as they pursue careers in nursing and health sciences.

This experience provided ABSN students with a deeper understanding of the role research plays in nursing and sparked curiosity about how scientific advancements shape healthcare. By connecting classroom learning with practical applications, the tour emphasized the importance of biobehavioral research in improving patient outcomes.

For more information about the Biobehavioral Lab visit, visit Carolina Nursing’s Biobehavioral Lab page.

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