About usMy name is Shaivi Kulkarni from Epsom Girls Grammar School.
Recently, through the Brain Bee competition, I had the incredible opportunity to experience ‘a day in the life of a neuroscientist’ at the University of Auckland. This was made possible by the Centre for Brain Research and the support of the Neurological Foundation.
As someone passionate about science, especially anatomy and physiology, I was excited to spend time in labs, the AMRF and the Brain Bank.
One of the most interesting parts was learning about the brain donation process. I’d never really thought about what happens after someone donates their brain. Learning how the Brain Bank technicians preserve the tissue, and hearing how these samples help researchers, gave me a huge appreciation for the donors and their families. Moreover, visiting the AMRF Medical Sciences Learning Centre gave me a new perspective on why medical research is so important, as I was able to observe how different diseases physically affect organs.
Visiting the labs was another highlight of my day. There, I met scientists conducting studies on diseases, such as Parkinson’s and glioblastoma (brain cancer). I also learned about the equipment they use, including centrifuges, incubators, and microtomes, and I was introduced to some techniques they use, immunohistochemistry (IHC), for example.
The internship also gave me new ideas about the different pathways available in science, medicine, and research. As for my future, I’m definitely keen to pursue a career in science. I really enjoy biology and chemistry, and I’m still figuring out exactly where I want to go. However, after my time at CBR, the idea of discovering something new and helping people, even behind the scenes, is very exciting.
I’m so grateful to the Neurological Foundation and everyone at CBR for making this possible. Even though it was just one day, the experience is something I’ll never forget, and I hope to carry the lessons I’ve learned into the future.
Shaivi Kulkarni, Epsom Girls Grammar School, Auckland
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