Researching Premature Infant Neurology

This summer, I worked with Professor Efthymios Papatzikis, whose research focuses on premature infant neurology. As part of his team, I assisted with data collection at the Children’s Hospital in Athens, Greece. I also spent time doing background reading and writing to add to sections of a book on infant brain development. ​

During this experience, I learned so much about myself as a worker. As a research assistant, it was vital to communicate well with my coworkers so that we could collect data in the most efficient and accurate way. I had to push myself to speak up with questions or to even share my opinion.​

I was surprised with how much this type of work clicked with me! It reinforced that a career in research might fit me well. Leaving this summer, I now know all the nitty gritty steps it takes to put a research idea into action, from buying equipment on the fly to constantly reading background literature. I also know how much people skills it requires, especially with human subjects research. 

My favorite part of this summer was the people I met, who care very much about what they do, and would probably do it for free. 

Internship funded by the Peter Buck Internship Fund​.