Shannon Watson

ABOUT THE RESEARCHER:

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

I am currently conducting research with Dr. Ashley de Marchena. We are exploring social communication in typically developing children and children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in order to develop a deeper understanding of the differences between both groups.

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

Putting it mildly, this research is novel. Psychologists and neuroscientists have barely scraped the surface of the relationship between gesture and ASD. Furthermore, developments from this study could potentially lead to a revolutionized treatment for social communication in individuals with ASD, improving overall quality of life. 

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

Throughout this experience I am learning various skills that are able to be applied to any field of research such as trouble-shooting, problem-solving, etc. More specifically, in the field of psychology, I have developed a deeper insight of psych testing and clinical skills.

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

Something that I have really struggled with during this experience is perseverance when protocols keep failing. It can be rather difficult to stay motivated when several methods have not worked, but there is not a greater feeling when it finally does! 

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

 This experience with USURF has helped narrow my search of what I would like to study in the broad field of neuroscience. Overall, I have discovered that my passion is finding better cognitive and behavioral treatments for individuals with autism. Also, during this time I have made connections with professionals in the field allowing me to expand future research and shadowing opportunities. 

 6.     Tell us something interesting about yourself.

I came into USciences with the idea that I would never be in a lab whether it be your typical “wet lab” or something clinical. As of today, I can’t seem to leave it.