This summer I will be working in Dr. Jong-Hyun Son’s Neuroscience Research Lab at the University of Scranton. Neuroscience is not only the foundation of my major but also of my future career. I am excited to gain more knowledge of the intricate connections of the nervous system and how these connections shape our everyday lives. The study of the brain and its processes are so fascinating to me because there is always something new to learn and investigate. During this internship, I will be researching the effects of hypoxia-induced neurotoxicity on adult zebrafish. I desire to further understand how hypoxic conditions affect the swimming behavior and neural connections of the zebrafish. I am excited to advance my lab techniques, communication skills, and data analysis efficiency. I look forward to applying the scientific method to intellectual inquiries and relating my findings to prior and future experiences.
Currently, my responsibility is maintaining the zebrafish colonies, which includes cleaning their tanks and filters, balancing water pH, and providing them with proper nutrition. I will then use the zebrafish to complete novel tank diving and z-maze behavioral trials. Then, I will perform immunohistochemistry to evaluate the effects of hypoxia on the cellular and molecular level. This research is important because understanding the functioning of the nervous system brings the scientific community closer to developing better treatments and, potentially, cures for neurodegenerative and neurodevelopmental disorders. Participating in this internship will not only allow me to pursue my passion for research, but it will be a stepping stone in my career as a medical professional. I aspire to become a neurosurgeon, and as a neurosurgeon my goal is to take part in medical breakthroughs and advancements in order to change the lives of others. This internship is the catalyst in neuroscience research that will be carried into my career as a physician and diagnostician.
Olivia Manarchuck
Hi Olivia! This research opportunity sounds so interesting! One of my best friends is in the neuroscience department also doing research and I love to hear about her work because the work you guys do is so interesting. I think that this research is a great opportunity for your own experiences as well as your future career to be a physician and diagnostician. The work you guys do in your department is incredibly interesting and very helpful for a good hands on experience, especially with professors at our own school!
Olivia,
This internship sounds fascinating. A psychology major myself, I also find the brain and its processes phenomenal. There is always new things to study and I’m glad you are taking full advantage of this. This particular research project sounds fantastic. It is very interesting how easily the brain is affected from numerous different things (hypoxia in this case). The skills learnt from this internship will definitely stick with you as you progress through education and into the medical field.
I can’t wait to here about your results!
Hi Olivia!
I loved reading about your research at the University of Scranton. Studying neuroscience is very fascinating and there is so much to learn! It is amazing that you are involved in a project that you love and that can contribute to the body of literature revolving around neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerate disorders. I’m also interested in completing a research project next school year, I cannot wait to hear more about your research!
Hi Olivia,
I think it was awesome that you were able to land this internship. This aligns perfectly with your career aspirations and will provide you with valuable neuroscience knowledge that you’ll need to know down the road. I hope this internship makes you even more excited about pursuing a career in neuroscience!
Hey Olivia!
The internship and the work that you are doing with the zebrafish and its effects on hypoxia seems like such great work. I did some research last semester and I enjoyed really looking at what I thought and noticing nothing is as it seems. You seem very passionate about the nervous system and how it leads to neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders…and that is what is going to make you stand out in the neuroscience field. I am so excited to see what you do next!
Hi Olivia,
I think what you are doing is very fascinating, especially as someone who has virtually no understanding of science. The work you are doing with the zebrafish sounds very intricate and interesting, and it is easy to tell through your post you are both serious and passionate about the work you are doing, which is amazing! I cannot wait to hear how this internship has gone for you and to hopefully see how the zebrafish are doing!