Josh Campbell knows what Jesus meant when he said he came to give “abundant life.” Now in his fifth year at Anderson University, Campbell is finishing a triple major in Biology, Computer Science, and Mathematics. This past summer he was invited to intern in Boston with the Harvard/MIT division of health sciences and technology where he was allowed to participate in current research. Following graduation, Josh hopes to continue his education with the pursuit of a Ph.D. And one more thing: he just got married.
Campbell’s journey at AU has been one of discovery. His father, Rick Campbell, works at AU managing computer systems, which helped spawn Campbell’s own interest in computer science. When asked about his interest in biology, Campbell said, “My faith fuels my interest in science and to explore God’s world.” He started his undergrad with only those intentions, but didn’t know how he was going to use them in his career—until a professor helped him discover a new field, Bioinformatics.
Scientist discover new information daily in the field of biology which has created a strong need to effectively analyze and organize the data so that it is useful for doctors and their patients. Additionally, computers have become one of the most powerful tools biologists use in the discovery of cures for disease. This melding of the two fields of biology and computer science is the area Campbell is entering. His internship at Harvard/MIT is a good example of what the new field is capable of accomplishing. Campbell’s work consisted of using computer models to predict how certain drugs would affect viral diseases and cancer. He understands a connection that occurs not only with the people his research can help, but also in the discovery process itself. “Education and science are more than just facts. It’s a growing experience with people and in faith,” Campbell said.
The latest addition to his string of majors—Mathematics—wouldn’t have happened if he hadn’t made one more discovery: his wife, Keri Trout, a Christian ministries major. The two met in Meyers Hall during his sophomore year. Campbell noted that she was “caring and sensitive” and his complete opposite. They married on December 16, 2006, even as Campbell is completing his final semester at AU.
For Campbell, many discoveries have been made, but still more are waiting. His experience in his internship has given him the drive to apply to Harvard and MIT for his doctorate work. His new life with Keri holds promise beyond what they can imagine. So even as one age of discovery ends, Campbell looks forward to an “abundant life” ahead.
