Jordan Beam, a third-year medical student at the Heersink School of Medicine, recently completed an international research elective focusing on cutting-edge research on prostate cancer metastasis. Last summer, Beam embarked on an exciting journey to 
Jordan Beam, MS3Oxford University in the United Kingdom, where she conducted research exploring the complex interactions between prostate cancer cells and osteoblast cells to improve our understanding of the mechanism of prostate cancer metastasis. This remarkable opportunity was part of the Medical Student Enrichment Program (MSEP), sponsored by the UAB Office of International Medical Education.
Beam's dedication and passion paid off when she secured first place at the prestigious 2024 Southern Medical Association Physicians in Training Conference. Her exceptional oral presentation, “Metastatic Prostate Cancer Cells' Effect on Tumor Microenvironment,” captivated the judges and earned her a $3000 scholarship and a $1000 conference travel stipend.
Reflecting on her transformative summer, Beam shared, “My time in Oxford was a dream come true. Despite being far from home, I quickly found a second family in the Oxford community.”
The MSEP, a visionary program designed by Dr. Zayzafoon to broaden the horizons of first-year medical students, places participants in diverse settings worldwide. It fosters humanitarian attitudes and cross-cultural understanding, preparing students to think globally about medicine. The scholarships awarded to students like Beam are made possible by UAB’s International Medical Education office, which carefully creates global partnerships and opportunities and arranges all logistics, allowing students to immerse themselves fully in their research.
In 2023, Beam joined the renowned Edwards NDORMS group at Oxford University, contributing to cutting-edge research on bone metastatic prostate cancer and myeloma. Her work focused on the tumor microenvironment, aiming to identify new targets for pharmacological treatments.
“The skills I acquired in Oxford are invaluable as I transition into clinicals,” said Beam. “Being part of such a passionate and dedicated scientific team was truly inspiring.”
Beam’s mentors at Oxford, Drs. Ormsby and Park, played a pivotal role in her success. Their guidance and support were instrumental in her rapid adaptation to the lab environment and her development of advanced technical skills.
Expressing her appreciation, Beam noted, “Dr. Zayzafoon and the IME office were crucial in creating this opportunity, providing resources and support to make this a reality. Their help made me feel prepared and confident traveling abroad.”
As Beam continues her medical journey, she has passed the first step of the USMLE licensing exam, relocated to Montgomery, Alabama, for clinical rotations, and is now in her third year of medical school. In addition to continued involvement in the Oxford lab, Beam is currently exploring the research fields of inflammatory and autoimmune skin conditions, skin cancer, and utilizing motivational interviewing’s use in chronic disease. In the future, she is also interested in investigating the benefits of music therapy on patients' mental and physical health and addressing language and comprehension barriers in healthcare.
Looking ahead, Beam plans to explore various new research avenues, including enhancing healthcare professionals' skills to improve patient relationships and treatment adherence, investigating the benefits of music therapy on patients' mental and physical health, and addressing language and comprehension barriers in healthcare.
Dr. Zayzafoon, Assistant Dean for International Medical Education remarked, "Jordan's experience exemplifies the profound impact that international research opportunities can have on medical students, shaping them into globally minded physicians equipped with unique insights and skills. We are all proud of Jordan’s achievements."