About usMy name is Ayan Shah from Macleans College, Auckland.
As part of the one-day internship I received through the Brain Bee competition, I had the incredible opportunity to visit the Neurology Department at the University of Auckland.
We began our day at the Centre for Brain Research lab where we were introduced to the different areas of neuroscience research. I was especially fascinated by the Tissue Screening Facility, where neuroscientists showed us how they analyse brain tissue using antibodies to identify specific proteins and cells. We then visited the Anatomy and Medical Imaging rooms, where we observed how MRI and CT scans are utilised to examine various parts of the body. Later, at the Neurological Foundation Human Brain Bank, we learned about how donated brain tissue is stored and prepared for research, which I found fascinating.
My favourite part of the day was exploring the different labs and seeing the technology scientists use daily. This experience has deepened my interest in neuroscience and inspired me to pursue a career in medical research, particularly in the field of neurodegenerative diseases.
I am grateful to the Neurological Foundation, Dr Young, and the University of Auckland research students for allowing us to participate in this experience.
Ayan Shah, Macleans College, Auckland
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