WHAT IS YOUR CURRENT RESEARCH PROJECT?

I am working to understand how neuronal microcircuits in the hippocampus work. Specifically we are studying the synaptic connections among different types of interneurons and hippocampal granular cells. To achieve this goal we record the electrical activity of different cells simultaneously. In doing so, we study different properties of the neuronal circuits. Our results contribute to understanding of the mechanisms which underlie the storing of information in the hippocampus (i.e. memory). 

WHAT made you interested in pursuing neuroscience?

Before starting my career in neuroscience I used to work with patients with neurological disorders (e.g.,cerebral palsy, Down’s Syndrome, stroke). I realized that my work as a therapist was very limited because the treatment that we could offer to our patients was very scarce, and actually most of the available treatments are palliative and not curative. The main reason is that the information available about how the nervous system works is very limited, more than what most people believe. This fact motivated me the most for changing my career from a therapist to a researcher. I think that creating knowledge is a beautiful way of contributing something to our society and indirectly to helping people.  Another reason for pursuing neuroscience is that it is fun! I am always driven by my excitement to try to understand how things work.

WHAT Do you like most about being at ISTA?

Many things! From a research point of view, ISTA offers many facilities for carrying out our projects in optimal conditions. I can talk about my group because it is the one that I know best. For me it has been a great experience,  challenging from time to time, but for the same reason I have learned and continued learning many things every day. From a social perspective, we have a very international environment at ISTA, which I love it.

WHAT attracted you to the PhD program AT ISTA?

The most important thing for me was the research group that I applied for. Before starting my PhD, I knew exactly what I wanted to study and the professor that I wanted as a supervisor.

In addition, I was also motivated by the first year of coursework at ISTA and the availability of courses in other fields. Even though I knew beforehand in which research field I would like to work, I also wanted to improve my knowledge in scientific fields that were not directly related to neuroscience. Something very good about ISTA is that you can find courses for improving skills that can be very helpful for your research project.

WHAT Advice would you give to prospective students?

I would encourage students to do what they really want to do, being brave and passionate in pursuing that. This will help them to be focused and enjoy their academic experience. When we do things with passion many beautiful results come out of that.

WHAT are the most important things that you’ve learned?

That it is very important to give the best of ourselves in everything that we do. In our work, with the people that we appreciate, and most importantly for ourselves.