Graduate School of Arts and Sciences

Luwopwa is a first-year student in the Biotechnology master's program.

Academic Focus: I am not yet focusing on a particular area. However, participating in courses like Master’s Proseminar and Molecular Biotechnology has been rewarding. The Biotech Project Lab with Vincent Sutera has been the highlight of the term. It has been the most transformative and rewarding experience, allowing me to gain relevant hands-on skills in the Biotech industry. I am also looking forward to gleaning a wealth of knowledge from Neil Simister and other experts in the field through the Biotechnology Business and Management courses. Lastly, I am excited about the reproductive health and developmental biology course due to my interest in contributing to the health and well-being of women.

What attracted me to Brandeis: Aside from Brandeis University's high ranking and commitment to academic excellence, the structure of the master's program in Biotechnology was my main attraction. The program's interdisciplinary approach seamlessly blends advanced scientific training with essential business skills. This all-roundedness equips me to navigate the complexities of the biotech industry effectively, preparing me to contribute meaningfully to the field. The program's unique features, such as hands-on Research Project Labs and a valuable summer internship, provide me with the practical experience necessary to navigate the complexities of this dynamic field. The university's values and commitment to social justice resonate deeply with my passion for improving health outcomes for vulnerable populations. Additionally, learning about the availability of the DEIS scholarship gave me hope, making my dream of an education at a top university like Brandeis a reality.

Something I’ve enjoyed here so far: So far, I have thoroughly enjoyed my coursework, particularly the intensive Biotech Project Lab experience with Vincent Sutera. This hands-on lab experience has deepened my understanding of biotechnology techniques and allowed me to apply theoretical knowledge in practical scenarios. Engaging in real-world projects has been challenging and rewarding, empowering me with skills to navigate and grow through the biotech industry. As a DEIS scholarship holder at Brandeis University, I thoroughly enjoy immersing myself in a rigorous academic environment. The scholarship has eased my financial burden, allowing me to focus entirely on my studies, access and learn from accomplished faculty, and engage with passionate peers. It has been incredibly enriching, and being part of this supportive environment has exceeded my expectations. I am grateful for the opportunity to grow personally and professionally at Brandeis, a place that feels like home.

Something that surprised me: One of the most surprising aspects of my experience at Brandeis has been the sense of community and support I have felt from day one. Guided by Neil Simister, I have found connecting with fellow students and faculty remarkably easy. This welcoming environment has made the transition to graduate school smoother than I anticipated, and I am grateful for the friendships and professional relationships I am fostering here. Additionally, I am pleasantly surprised by the extensive resources available to students at Brandeis, which reflect the university's commitment to helping us maintain balance in our lives— emotionally, academically, spiritually, and mentally. The support systems in place, including counseling services, wellness programs, and academic resources, have genuinely enriched my overall experience and well-being.

What I Hope to Do After Graduation: After graduation, I aim to work with industries dedicated to advancing research and developing innovative technologies to enhance the health and well-being of women. My recent loss of a dear friend due to complications from childbirth has not only deepened my resolve but has also refueled my passion for this vital field. I am enthusiastic about conducting research that leads to groundbreaking solutions and technologies that promote the health and well-being of women. I envision collaborating with organizations committed to improving women's health and well-being, leveraging my expertise in biotechnology to make a meaningful impact. I aspire to contribute to a future where every woman has access to the resources and support necessary to live healthy lives globally. In conclusion, my journey at Brandeis thus far has been transformative. I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead as I delve deeper into my studies and contribute to this fantastic community and the vital field of biotechnology.

Sagarika (she/they) is a first-year student in the Psychology PhD program.

Academic Focus: How culture interacts with memory and cognition

What attracted me to Brandeis: I appreciated the tight-knit, collaborative atmosphere in my department and the university at large. Also, unlike typical psychology programs, Brandeis’s Psychology program has a lab rotation component that encourages the development of multidisciplinary complements to their research and allows students to experience research methods in addition to their home lab’s approaches.

Something I’ve enjoyed here so far: I have really enjoyed getting to know my advisor and my lab, delving into research topics that have long fascinated me but that I haven’t been able to fully dedicate myself to before.

What I hope to do after graduation: I am excited by the possibilities of all I can leverage my PhD to do, so for now I am keeping my options open. Regardless of where I end up, though, I will continue to use empirical science considering real-world applications and work to promote equity, justice, and accessibility in and of science.

Nazir is a first-year student in the Chemistry PhD program.

Academic Focus: Physical chemistry

What attracted me to Brandeis: I really liked the work that was being done here, but meeting the professors and grad students during visiting weekend cemented it: they were very kind, helpful and passionate about their work.

Something I’ve enjoyed here so far: The people and the breadth of the research in the group I'm in

Something that surprised me: The outreach: people are way more proactive about offering help and working together than I would have expected. Also how much of a calf workout it is to walk around campus.

What I hope to do after graduation: I'd like to continue working in physical chemistry, ideally on method development or simulation (either in industry or academia), but my pipe dream is to create a sugar substitute that's actually suitable for baking with.

Diego (he/him) is a first-year student in the Biotechnology master's program.

Academic Focus: Beginning in the spring, I will be conducting systems neuroscience research as a member of Dr. Shantanu Jadhav's laboratory, using experimental and computational methods to investigate the brain mechanisms that subserve learning, memory, and decision-making in rats.

What attracted me to Brandeis: As an undergraduate neuroscience major, Brandeis was firmly on my radar given its status as an excellent neuroscience research institute situated in one of the strongest neuroscience communities in the world. As I learned about the biotechnology program, I quickly became excited by the doors the program would open for me, with the opportunity to gain experience with broadly-applicable molecular biology techniques and expand my network with researchers across a wide spectrum of disciplines, both in academia and industry. I was (and am!) also interested in learning about the business and management side of biotechnology. All these reasons, combined with the flexibility to infuse my program with neuroscience research and courses, helped me decide to come to Brandeis.

Something I’ve enjoyed here so far: Many things! From journal club to pizza talks and colloquia, I have loved learning about the research students and faculty are conducting at Brandeis and beyond. On top of this, the Project Laboratory in Biotechnology has taught me numerous research and organizational skills, and I am extremely grateful for the relationships I have formed with faculty and students in my program and outside of it.

Something that surprised me: I was surprised at how quickly I felt a part of the scientific community at Brandeis. From the early graduate students orientation events to individual conversations with faculty, I always felt like my opinion and enthusiasm was welcomed and encouraged.

What I hope to do after graduation: After graduation, I hope to spend a few years working as a neuroscientist to study the computational properties of the brain, whether in industry, a non-profit research organization, or a university. I further aim to expand my data analysis skill set and proficiency in areas in artificial intelligence (AI) like machine learning to apply neuroscience principles towards the development of novel AI algorithms. After this, I aspire to pursue a PhD in systems neuroscience and join hundreds of scientists in the quest to understand how brain activity generates conscious experience (good luck!).

Henry is a first-year student in the Biotechnology master's program.

Academic Focus: My research in Dr. Maria-Eirini Pandelia’s lab focuses on characterizing the functional roles of metallocofactors in viral proteins.

What attracted me to Brandeis: I obtained my BS in Biology, Neuroscience, and Health: Science, Society, and Policy during my undergraduate at Brandeis University. I chose Brandeis because of the university’s world-class education in the sciences, and policy, and its focus on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Having experienced the liberal education and diverse extracurriculars at Brandeis, I have found an inclusive community across almost every aspect of campus that I set foot on ranging from athletics to the student's intercultural center. The ability to study and do research at the institution while participating in athletics as part of the Cross Country and Track & Field team is an invaluable experience for any student-athlete.

Something I’ve enjoyed here so far: My interdisciplinary education in the sciences and social sciences has developed a sense of empathy that helped me build social connections with others. I have learned a lot about myself through many teaching assistants and leadership opportunities on campus. I have enjoyed the relationships I have built with the individuals who make up our campus community during my undergraduate and graduate studies. Most importantly, I want to express my sincere appreciation for being a part of a beautiful community with a rich heritage which has helped me build my identity and meet some of the most supportive friends, staff, professors, coaches, and teammates.

Something that surprised me: It is pretty easy to get involved on campus. Additionally, I am always surprised by the wildlife I see around campus.

What I hope to do after graduation: After graduation, I hope to continue graduate school in an MD/PhD program. My long-term goal is to become a physician-scientist.

Corey is a first-year student in the English PhD program.

Academic Focus: Trauma Studies

What attracted me to Brandeis: The kindness of the faculty I spoke to

Something I’ve enjoyed here so far: The supportive community of scholarship at Brandeis

Something that surprised me: How helpful everyone has been and how many resources are on campus

What I hope to do after graduation: Teach

Liv is a first-year student in the Sociology PhD program.

Academic Focus: Sociology of culture, education, knowledge, and pedagogy

What attracted me to Brandeis: The sociology faculty! I'm happy to be studying and working with such incredible scholars.

Something I’ve enjoyed here so far: I'm so grateful to have found new friends in my sociology cohort and beyond. It's been fun getting to know everyone and supporting each other on our academic work.

Something that surprised me: I'm surprised and overjoyed to see such a strong first-gen community here! I feel at home with fellow first-gen scholars.

What I hope to do after graduation: It's a while away, but my ideal career would be in higher ed administration, working in some kind of student-support role like in a Center for Teaching & Learning.