Chantal Aaron, PhD Candidate in Neuroscience
"My goal has been to uncover mechanisms underlying reward processing and behavioral responses across developmental stages, ultimately aiming to contribute to better interventions for substance use disorders."
Chantal Aaron is a current PhD candidate in Neuroscience at the Tufts Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences (GSBS). Her research focuses on understanding developmental and sex-specific differences in brain circuitry related to reward processing, with the aim of improving interventions for substance use disorders. In this student spotlight, Aaron shares her journey, experiences, and aspirations as a graduate student at Tufts.
Why did you choose to pursue this degree?
"I pursued my graduate degree to deepen my understanding of neuroscience, particularly in addiction and developmental neurobiology. My goal has been to uncover mechanisms underlying reward processing and behavioral responses across developmental stages, ultimately aiming to contribute to better interventions for substance use disorders."
Why did you choose Tufts to pursue your degree?
"I chose Tufts University for its strong focus on translational research and its commitment to fostering diverse perspectives in science. The opportunities to collaborate across disciplines and the access to state-of-the-art facilities in neurobiology were crucial factors."
What is the focus of your research, and what questions are you trying to answer?
"My research focuses on understanding sex-specific differences and developmental changes in reward-related brain circuitry, from adolescence to adulthood."
How has your experience in the program been like?
"I have gained a rich and diverse experience in the neuroscience program. My work has included conducting complex experiments such as oxycodone intravenous self-administration, sucrose self-administration, and quinpirole sensitization studies, all through a developmental lens. I have shared my findings at several prestigious conferences and had the rewarding opportunity to mentor high school students interested in neuroscience. Additionally, my involvement in initiatives like Black In Neuro and the Graduate Women in STEM organization has allowed me to foster meaningful collaborations and build a robust professional network. These experiences have significantly shaped my growth as a researcher and strengthened my commitment to advocating for diversity and equity in science."
What is your favorite aspect about the program?
"My favorite aspect of the program is the collaborative environment that fosters innovation and growth. The supportive faculty and peers, combined with access to cutting-edge facilities, create an ideal setting to explore complex scientific questions. I also deeply value the camaraderie and shared passion of my fellow students, who continually inspire me through their curiosity, resilience, and diverse perspectives."
What is your proudest personal accomplishment while at Tufts?
"My proudest accomplishment is my outreach work with students from Josiah Quincy School and my weekly mentorship with high school students. These experiences have allowed me to share my passion for neuroscience, inspire the next generation of scientists, and provide underrepresented students with guidance and opportunities to explore their interests in STEM."
What do you wish to accomplish upon graduation?
"Upon graduation, I aim to pursue a teaching-focused postdoctoral position where I can integrate my passions for research and education. I aspire to continue studying adolescent neurobiology and reward pathways while mentoring and inspiring the next generation of neuroscientists. My ultimate goal is to contribute to impactful, translational work that informs addiction treatment strategies and to foster diversity in neuroscience by empowering underrepresented students in STEM."
What do you want a prospective student to know about Tufts?
"Tufts offers a unique combination of academic rigor and opportunities for growth. The program challenges you intellectually while providing a network of mentors and peers who are genuinely invested in your success. Tufts is a place where you can grow as a scientist, leader, and advocate while making meaningful contributions to your field."
Chantal works under the mentorship of Elizabeth Byrnes, PhD, an expert in neuroscience and addiction. |
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