ATSU-KCOM student Erika Buhk named SGA Student Researcher of the Quarter
Posted: December 2, 2025
A.T. Still University-Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine (ATSU-KCOM) student Erika L. Buhk, OMS II, was recently named Student Government Association (SGA) Student Researcher of the Quarter.
Buhk is from Jenison, Michigan, and has a degree from Michigan State University in human biology, statistics, psychology, and neuroscience, with a minor in bioethics and mathematics.
Buhk is president of the Sexuality in Medicine Club, and is National Liaison Officer for the ATSU-KCOM Chapter of the Student Osteopathic Medicine Association (SOMA), with seats on the National Community Outreach Committee and the National Resolution Committee. Buhk is also a member of the First Generation Student Physician Club, Pediatric Club, and serves as both a mental health ambassador and student ambassador. Additionally, Buhk is part of The Miller Lab.
Congratulations on being named SGA Student Researcher of the Quarter! What can you tell us about your research?
“The research I’m working on with Dr. Miller is considered computational chemistry, so we use computer simulation and the principles of biochemistry to evaluate thousands of potential drug candidates. Specifically, the project I’m working on evaluates the Multiple Lineage Leukemia (MLL) transcription factor cMyb:KIX:MLL complex. We know that this complex is involved in activating transcription and when mutations occur, transcription is allowed to happen unregulated and leads to leukemia (AML and ALL). By focusing on where MLL binds to KIX, we are testing thousands of potential drug candidates to see if any would bind as a competitive inhibitor for MLL and thus would treat leukemia. We do this with a lot of computational modeling, simulation, and data evaluation.
“I’m specifically interested in practicing pediatric hematology oncology, so gaining such an in-depth understanding of how leukemia can occur is really fascinating to me. I’ve always enjoyed understanding the full spectrum of how processes work, and being able to investigate this protein and trial drugs this way has really opened my eyes to elements of research and scientific advancement I hadn’t considered. I really enjoy it.”
Why did you choose ATSU-KCOM?
“I chose ATSU-KCOM because on my interview day, everyone felt like a family and every individual seemed truly happy to have me there. In my entire application and admissions process, instead of making me feel like I would be lucky to attend, they made me feel like they would be lucky for me to choose ATSU, and that is something truly unique for the world of medical school.
“Academically, I love that it is a graduate-only campus, so everything is focused and centered on graduate education, and this allows me to take full advantage of every opportunity and build personal relationships with staff and faculty, because they really are here for us.”
What do you enjoy about being an ATSU-KCOM student?
“I love being an ATSU-KCOM student. I feel truly supported here by faculty, staff, and my classmates. We are in a small town where ATSU is at the center of a lot, and because of that we really do become a family. The staff is so welcoming and approachable, everyone is here to help us succeed, and they do an amazing job of making us feel supported.
“I enjoy the variety of opportunities here. From running different cases in the Human Patient Simulation Lab, to practicing ultrasound skills, there is always something I can try and learn that will better my abilities for my future patients.
“All in all, it is clear that everyone in the ATSU community is dedicated to the same principles that A.T. Still, DO, started the school with: to care for patients holistically and to best prepare physicians to do so. Taking it a step further, they want us to treat ourselves like we do our patients, prioritizing our own body, mind, and spirit. I could have never imagined being a medical student in a place that embodies the idea that I can’t care for others if I don’t first care for myself, and it inspires me every day to work hard and carry that attitude into the medical field and share it with those around me, patients and caregivers alike.”
What do you hope to achieve professionally, and how is ATSU-KCOM helping prepare you for your career?
“I hope to practice in pediatric hematology oncology and ATSU-KCOM is integral in this journey for me. There is pediatric material integrated into every unit that we study, which has allowed me to remain connected to the content that excites me the most. Our Pediatrics Club has given me the opportunity to step into this content further, as well as the chance to speak to pediatric subspecialists to better understand my options.
“The coursework and academic opportunities are allowing me to be a well-rounded medical student and preparing me for the necessary testing, but outside of the classroom, I’ve been able to experience the many facets of research and feel more comfortable with research presentation and the scientific process, skills I will use as I continue my journey into residency and fellowship. I’ve also been able to attend several national conferences where I’ve been able to network and better understand the options I have for postgraduate training.
“ATSU was also able to place me with a pediatrician for my two-week clinical experience, which was a great experience and allowed me to be directly in the field, strengthen my understanding of the patient-parent-physician dynamic in pediatrics, and practice my exam skills on patients ranging from birth to 18!”
Why did you choose to join different student organizations?
“I joined SOMA because, as a first-generation medical student, I wanted to get involved with the osteopathic medical profession and be an active part of the field I will be entering. SOMA has introduced me to so many resources and opportunities to be an active member in the profession, even as a student, and helped me to realize all the ways I belong and that I can use my voice to better the osteopathic medical student experience.
“With SOMA, I have been able to attend three conferences focused on leadership and policy, including DO Day on Capitol Hill, the American Osteopathic Association House of Delegates, and most recently the Osteopathic Medical Education conference (OMED).
“I joined the Sexuality in Medicine Club because I know from both personal and professional experience that the LGBTQ+ community is often excluded from the conversation, and being intentional about guiding students to accurate resources and better understanding this community will help all of our future patients. With this club I’ve been able to help organize educational events and build a safe space in our ATSU community for all to come to freely and know they are accepted and belong.”
What are some of your interests, hobbies, or achievements outside of ATSU?
“Outside of ATSU, I love staying active by walking my two dogs (Archie is a deaf Standard Australian Shepherd and Nala is a mini Australian shepherd mix, both of whom we rescued from the local humane society). I also love to travel whenever possible. Recently my wife and I went to St. Louis for a concert and Kansas City for a football game, and we travelled to Door County, Wisconsin last summer.
“I’m a big fan of live music and never miss watching a Detroit Lions game. I enjoy cooking and baking and unwinding with a good book, movie, or a TV show!”
