PhD Student Experience at Tufts GSBS: Lauren Lepeak on Neuroscience Research at JAX

Are you considering a PhD in neuroscience or curious about the unique opportunities available through Tufts Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences (GSBS) in collaboration with The Jackson Laboratory (JAX) in Bar Harbor, Maine? The Neuro @ JAX program offers an immersive research experience in one of the most scenic and scientifically rich environments in the country. Learn what it’s like to study cutting-edge neuroscience while living steps away from Acadia National Park, directly from current student Lauren Lepeak.

Why did you choose to pursue this degree?

"I have always been fascinated by the brain! I've always wanted to understand why we think the way we do, especially how that correlates to the inner neural circuitry. Being able to tie behaviors to changes in anatomy and neural signaling is incredible, as it helps us better understand how to create therapeutics when something goes awry."

Why did you choose Tufts to pursue your degree?

"I chose Tufts because of the Neuro @ JAX program. I loved the idea of getting an incredible education close to the Acadia National Park, while also working with PIs whose research interests aligned with mine."

What is the focus of your research, and what questions are you trying to answer?

"My research focuses on determining the neural circuitry of exercise in hopes of understanding alternative therapeutics to aid in memory loss associated with Alzheimer's Disease. I want to understand how exercise shapes plasticity in the brain via a hypothalamic node and see if manipulating this node results in the same cognitive and metabolic benefits as exercise does."

What has your experience been like in the program so far?

"My experience overall has been great. It is incredible to have a community in Boston, while also up here in Bar Harbor. Utilizing the resources that JAX has, while also getting the insight of professors and students in Boston, has made doing science easier and fun."

What is your favorite aspect about the program?

"My favorite aspect is the experience I have at JAX. My year, and our neuroscience cohort as a whole, is extremely close and we all support and encourage each other, both in the lab and outside. My lab is extremely supportive, and it is incredible to get to work with such a good mentor, while also being able to be mentored by other PIs at JAX, some not even in neuroscience. The collaboration and support are incredible!"

What are some of your favorite ways to recharge outside of the lab or classroom?

"Depending on the season, I will go hiking, biking, swimming, or cross-country skiing outside of the lab. It is incredible to have such a beautiful national park at your fingertips, and there are so many different ways to explore. During the summer, I play in the Town Band, while in the school year I play water polo with the College of the Atlantic students—both great ways to meet people in the Bar Harbor community."

What is your proudest academic/professional accomplishment while at Tufts?

"While I just successfully passed my qualifying exam this past summer—a huge accomplishment, of course—one of my proudest research moments thus far has been the progress and data I have been able to collect and produce for my projects. It is so satisfying to see hours and weeks of work pay off with beautiful images and interesting data. I have also been able to attend a Gordon Research Conference, which has been one of my favorite research experiences outside the lab so far."

What do you wish to accomplish upon graduation?

"Upon graduation, I hope to continue my research in a post-doc position, hopefully in the same areas of research. I want to continue studying neural circuitry, and how manipulating various components of said circuitry can be therapeutically beneficial."

What do you want a prospective student to know about Tufts?

"Speaking specifically for Neuro @ JAX students, don't be hesitant about the virtual component of classes. The student community up here is very focused on supporting each other, and classes are often held all together in conference rooms. Everyone has gone through what you are going through, and everyone is happy to give you tips and tricks to make the transition into graduate school easier."

Related Links:

Neuro @ JAX Admissions
The Jackson Laboratory