Jackson Sweeney, OMS III, is a student at the Midwestern University/Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine (MWU/CCOM) who has recently taken on the role of National Research Director in the Student Osteopathic Medical Association (SOMA). Originally from Fishers, Indiana, he attended Miami University in Ohio and earned his bachelor’s degree in microbiology. With a strong interest in orthopedic surgery, he has contributed to a variety of research initiatives. He is currently involved in leukemia research with Jeff Kurkewich, PhD. Specifically, he is investigating the role of the ZEB2 gene in the progression of hematologic malignancies, with a focus on how it regulates leukemia-associated genes and cellular pathways involved in stem cell maintenance and myeloid differentiation.
Jackson’s passion for research stems from its potential to revolutionize medicine, which allows us to ultimately provide higher-quality care for our patients: “Throughout my own experiences in research, I’ve seen how asking the right questions and following the evidence can lead to meaningful change,” he explains.
His enthusiasm doesn’t stop at conducting research itself: it shines when he has the chance to promote research activity among his colleagues.
Jackson added, “I feel fortunate to be in a position where I can help create more research opportunities for medical students and encourage the next generation of physicians to stay committed to evidence-based medicine throughout their careers.”
Whether that is through overseeing SOMA’s Journal Club, Research Spotlight Series or National Symposium, he is determined to expand scientific inquiry in the osteopathic medical student experience.
Beyond his research involvement, Jackson has been recognized as a leader in other roles as well, including serving as the National Liaison Officer for MWU/CCOM’s SOMA chapter. He describes that role as an example of how collaboration with other chapter leaders can lead to positive, synergistic outcomes. He emphasized that having a complementary team with diverse perspectives contributed to the whole group’s personal and professional growth: “We had different strengths, and by working together we built confidence in our own abilities while learning from one another. Looking back, I think we inspired each other to continue pursuing leadership roles because we saw what we were capable of when given the opportunity.”
Jackson adds, “I think leaders are at their best when they are willing to learn from others and use that input to make decisions that benefit the group as a whole.” The key to this, he says, is being able to effectively listen. “No one person has all the answers, and some of the best ideas often come from the people around you. Whether it’s team members, peers or people with more experience, taking the time to genuinely listen helps you understand different perspectives and make better decisions.”
One thing is clear; Jackson represents the intersection of two important characteristics of a successful, well-rounded physician: leadership and intellectual curiosity. To be curious involves being comfortable with uncertainty, having the drive to ask questions and the grit to seek answers. This stepwise process is often necessary for leaders to pursue their goals. Through this progression, however, they are rarely alone.
If you are unsure about important next steps, Jackson recommends seeking reinforcement: “I think one of the most important things you can do is surround yourself with people who push you to be better and support you when things don’t go as planned. There will always be times in leadership where you feel unsure of what the right decision is or whether you’re doing a good job. Having mentors, peers and teammates who can offer honest feedback, advice and different perspectives makes those situations much easier to navigate.”
All in all, Jackson is honored and eager to be that helping hand for the students who want to advance the field of osteopathic medicine through research and openly invites others to be leaders alongside him