Muskan Singh

ABOUT THE RESEARCHER:

1.     Who are you doing research with this summer and what kind of research project are you doing?

This summer, I am conducting research with Dr. Melissa Manners. The research project examines the effects of acute stress versus chronic stress on depression and anxiety-like behavior in male mice.

2.     What do you find fascinating in the research you’re doing?

The relevance of our project, especially after encountering a global pandemic. Stress is a part of life and learning more about how it impacts our mental health can help evolve new treatments for depression and anxiety. 

3.     What skills are you learning through the USURF experience?

From crafting the project to conducting the experiments, I have learned a lot of skills such as: genotyping, extracting DNA, running gel electrophoresis, handling mice, and conducting behavioral assays using ANY-Maze software. 

4.     What are the challenges you’re encountering in your research?

Research is not a linear process and persevering through multiple failures and obstacles is challenging. Handling mice and getting comfortable with them enough to be able to conduct behavioral assays was a major obstacle. After a lot of practice and patience, I am equipped with skills that will allow me to handle mice and do advanced research such as testing effects of certain drugs. 

5.     How is your USURF experience impacting the way you view your field?

There is still a lot to uncover in the field of Neuroscience. The more time I spend in lab completing my project, the more I challenge my creativity. Using my creativity, and these newly learned skills, I am excited to continue the process of learning and researching, instead of being intimidated by it. 

6.     Tell us something interesting about yourself.

I have been Baton Twirling since I was 15. Whenever I get overwhelmed, I pick up my Baton, put on some music, and go practice. After learning so much about stress, depression, and anxiety, I have learned the importance of relaxing and coping.