Dedicated neuroscience major, Kimberley John M’21, is graduating from the College of Arts and Sciences this spring and will begin a position as a molecular biologist for the Neuroscience department at PTC Therapeutics. She found the opportunity through a LinkedIn job search and starts the position in July. “My role is performing scientific experiments that contribute to research and drug discovery activities," she says and will be conducting early-stage research for the identification of New Chemical Entities (NCEs). Kimberley credits the rigorous coursework, solid relationships with faculty, industry-focused opportunities, and University resources for her success.
Kimberley says courses in the Neuroscience Program prepared her to think neuroscientifically through the various lectures, webinars, and conferences. She specifically mentions Associate Professor of Biology Paola Sachhetti as a mentor. "She helped us think and function differently which has ultimately helped our end goals.”
Kimberley also assisted with a graduate student's thesis on the impact of the ketogenic diet on an Alzheimer's mouse model under Sachhetti's supervision. “I learned several key techniques that are required post-graduation and worked with a great teammate, Kevin Charland, who is on the path to a PhD at Tufts University,” she says.
Additionally, Kimberley worked on stroke research that formed a part of her capstone and is likely to be published in the future. "The project taught me great industry skills that have prepped me for my future endeavors.”
Outside the classroom, Kimberley utilized her curricular practical training and completed an internship with Connecticut Analytical Corporation (CAC). There she worked on a project to understand the feasibility of diagnosing a stroke before the onset of neurological symptoms through the use of biomarkers, by conducting a prospective, longitudinal study and applying analytical tools for further analysis.
Apart from departmental opportunities, Kimberley approached UHart’s Office of Career and Professional Development and the Center for Student Success to help her develop a strong application package when applying for industry positions.
Kimberley says that her experience at UHart was great and recommends that incoming students be cognizant of events, webinars, lectures, conferences, and meetings that could ultimately boost their careers and make maximum use of the resources provided at UHart.
She says her final advice to students is to connect and network with alumni. "They may direct and guide you through your phases in the program," she says, and also advises students to consider being socially active on LinkedIn. "It is a great platform to connect with people from the same field and area of interest."
Kimberley John M'21, NeuroscienceI like the fact that UHart constantly provides help to assist and equip students to boost their skills and resume. It was great being part of a university that addressed every need during the pandemic.