JoColl B
- Research Program Mentor
PhD candidate at Boston University
Expertise
Neuroscience, Psychiatrics, Anxiety, PTSD, Endocrinology, Sensory Systems, Anatomy, Down Syndrome, development disorders in animals and humans, media creations and management, blogging health topics, health,
Bio
I am studying neuroscience as a Ph.D. candidate at the Boston University School of Medicine (BUSM). I studied psychology and neuroscience at East Carolina University for my undergraduate degree. My undergraduate thesis investigated how complex learning affects hippocampal neurogenesis in the Alzheimer's mouse model. After completing my undergraduate studies, I worked in a cognitive laboratory where I created a 3D model of the dendritic structural differences between young and old rhesus monkeys. During this time, I obtained my Master's in Anatomy & Neurobiology. While completing my Master's, I also trained as an Anatomist and became certified in teaching Biomedical Courses. I have always had a passion for teaching. I love asking questions about the mind and developing clever ways to answer such questions. So, I regularly teach medical and dental scholars to have the best of both worlds. Regarding my Ph.D. research, I am interested in how stress and trauma manifest into psychiatric disorders. As a Ph.D. candidate, I research how healthy fear states manifest into psychiatric disorders and what neuronal circuits modulate such changes. In addition, I also study how hormonal fluctuations increase the prevalence of developing metabolic disorders and cognitive impairment such as Alzheimer's. Specifically, I utilize neuroanatomical techniques, pharmacological intervention, viral constructs for cell-specific manipulation, and whole-brain mapping to answer scientific questions!Project ideas
From the Stomach to the Mind – Advertisements of Foods Affects our Brains
The gastrointestinal tract (GI) is often called the second brain. The foods we consume have a massive impact on how we feel and think. We are bombarded with constant advertisements in the media, which influence the types of foods we wish to consume. For this project, you will first note the food advertisements you encounter (media, apps, radio, TV, etc.) and create a blog/website that describes how the nutritional value of such foods affects brain activity.
Sensory Overload and Mental Health
The aim of this project will be a complete literature review of the current evidence regarding sensory information of social media apps and the effects it has on mental health. This project will require you to draft a literature review and you will need access to literature sources. The final product will be a complete publishable journal review paper that explains the relationship between social media usage and mental health and disorders.
Tick Tock: Increase Prevalence in Neurodegenerative Diseases and our Diet
Growing evidence is coming to light regarding cognitive impairments and their link to our diet. Many researchers are starting to investigate that the Western Diet could be a significant link towards the onset and development of Alzheimer's disease. For this project, the student explores potential remedies that the patient can and should explore for preventable and treatable outcomes. The student will need to research the latest findings regarding how environment, genetics, and lifestyles can increase the prevalence of Alzheimer's disease. Another question would be, what therapies and novel technology are currently being tested for patients with neurodegenerative disorders? Ideas: 1.) Review peer-reviewed articles around the subject and write an article about the topic's current status. a.) Goal: Your aim will be to develop an understanding of the latest findings in the field and publish your findings in a peer-reviewed journal. 2.) In-person (Zoom): Interview neurosurgeons and neuroclinical practitioners to gain the latest insights into Alzheimer's disease or neuro disorders research and therapies. Based on the professionals' findings, create an interview session podcast or written journalist article and share current trends on your website or social media post. a.) Goal: You can also establish a marketing campaign to inform people about the current findings and status of Alzheimer's/neurodegenerative research.