Neuroscience student completes summer programme at the Francis Crick Institute
Maria Riscado Ramos talks about her experience.
This summer I had the honour of taking part in the Crick-Calleva Summer Student programme at the Francis Crick Institute. Under the supervision of Andrea Adden and as a member of the Prieto-Godino lab, I worked in developing and optimising behavioural assays to determine the response of tsetse flies to larviposition pheromones, which presented a fantastic opportunity to conduct research within neuroethology, a fascinating field not covered in our BSc Neuroscience curriculum.
This experience has and (I’m sure) will prove pivotal in my next steps as I pursue a career in academia. Carrying out research independently provided me with first-hand insight into the importance of organisation and resilience in science. Having complete autonomy over my project, I gained dexterity in insect handling and odour preparation, amongst other techniques, and always counted with Andrea’s and the lab’s support.
I believe the Crick is a fantastic institution in which to complete an internship. Their emphasis in providing a holistic first-hand experience shined through the vast number of opportunities offered throughout the program; from seminars and PhD workshops to the Summer Student Symposium, where I presented my 2-month research project to the community of attending scientists.
If you have any questions, feel free to email me at bt19524@qmul.ac.uk and I’ll be glad to help out!
Maria Riscado Ramos
BSc Neuroscience, Year 3