A day in the life of a neuroscientist - Amrutha Madhusudhan

Hi, my name is Amrutha Madhusudhan, and I am a Year 11 student studying at Epsom Girls Grammar School. I love most of the subjects I take at school, but my favourite is physics because it helps me understand and develop my perspective of the universe. I love how it focuses on fundamental principles and makes connections between seemingly unrelated concepts. It’s essential for grasping the complexities of the world around us, as well as within ourselves and the universe beyond. I find it incredibly interesting to explore how everything works and to uncover the fascinating phenomena that shape our reality.

I felt honoured to receive the prize for ‘A Day in the Life of a Neuroscientist,’ and it was a fantastic opportunity to network with like-minded people, people in the industry, learn about their lifestyles, and explore potential career paths.

During the visit, we first learned about MRI scans through a mock demonstration. We then visited students pursuing their PhDs in neuroscience – for example, developing brain cells using skin cells. One of the most memorable parts was visiting the Neurological Foundation Human Brain Bank, where we learned how brains are stored and what happens to them after extraction. I found it fascinating that brains are stored in sugar syrup to prevent ice crystals from forming, which can damage the tissue. We also examined different types of brains, like those of spider monkeys and sheep, and how the gyri indicate the complexity of the brain. 

From this experience, I came away with a better understanding of what to expect if I pursue neuroscience. I learned about different career options, research areas, and real-world implications of neuroscience in healthcare. Not only did I learn about the positives, but I also learnt about the challenges faced by students. Five years from now, I'm thinking of pursuing engineering at the University of Auckland, potentially focusing on the biomedical side. I’m excited about the idea of combining my interests in technology and medicine to create innovative solutions that can improve healthcare.

Although I have learnt many complex details about the brain, the most incredible thing about the brain is its plasticity and the ability to adapt and change throughout our lives, through microglia in areas such as the hippocampus, the olfactory bulb, and the cerebellum. This means that the brain can form new connections, reorganise itself, and even recover from injuries. It allows us to learn, grow, and develop new skills at any age. This not only shows our capacity for learning and memory but also highlights the brain's ability to face challenges in life.

Amrutha Madhusudhan, Epsom Girls Grammar School