NJIT Scholar Brings Can-Do Mindset to Her Next Chapter at UPenn
Be it in a lab, in a classroom or on a soccer field, New Jersey Institute of Technology’s Cassidy Landis is focused, driven and caring. Those qualities should serve her well as she becomes a research associate at the University of Pennsylvania’s Perelman School of Medicine.
Landis, who earned a bachelor’s in biology from NJIT, will work in the Baxter Lab, which examines Achilles tendon ruptures, tendinopathy and the rehabilitation process. She’s well-prepared, having worked in health care — including as a nursing assistant at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center — and having competed as an athlete and team leader. Landis was a goalkeeper on the women’s soccer team and became a captain in her senior season.
“She would look out for her teammates and be one of the first ones there if anyone needed help, especially off the field,” Head Coach Ally Nick said. “Late at night, when student-athletes are studying, some of them, especially our younger players, run into issues solving a problem or understanding the material. Cassidy would be one of the first ones to volunteer to tutor them.”
That can-do mindset is evident in her thoughts about UPenn and NJIT.
What will you do as a research specialist at UPenn?
Perform wet lab experiments using varying assays and small animal surgeries and handle laboratory maintenance. The position is within an orthopedic surgery lab that focuses on Achilles tendon injuries — including ruptures and tendinopathy — and targets the rehabilitation process. I am considering pursuing a master’s degree there as well.
How did your part-time jobs at Newark Beth Israel, CCRES Educational and Behavioral Health Services and West Chiropractic & Wellness help you land this opportunity?
They gave me patient care experience and introduced me to various aspects of health care. Each role also required thorough documentation, which will benefit the research I do.
What do you love about soccer?
I love the relationships you form with your teammates both on and off the field.
Best piece of advice from Coach Nick?
To approach anything you do with a positive mindset
Your favorite class?
Mammalian Physiology with Dr. [John] Yarotsky. The professor was very knowledgeable about the content and presented it in a relatable and interesting way. I found it very engaging and informative.
Biggest surprise at NJIT?
The campus atmosphere. There’s always something going on, be it an athletic game, activities on the green or campus-wide events.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
Continuing to conduct medical research after earning master's degree, or returning to school to become a physician’s assistant.
