Chad Alrawashdeh is currently a sophomore in the College majoring in Neurobiology on the pre-med track. Chad hopes to pursue a career in medicine with the goal of a residency program in Neurology, surgery, or both!
Experience in Research:
Chad has always been interested in neuroscience. When deciding to come to Georgetown, Chad knew that the university would allow him to take advantage of many opportunities in research and beyond. As a freshman, he applied to join the Neurophysiology and Behavior Lab run by Dr. Kanwal.
Dr. Kanwal’s lab is in the department of Neurophysiology in the Department of Neurology at Georgetown. Kanwal’s research focuses on neurodynamics of complex adaptive networks, as well as how the brain is designed for socioemotional communication and decision making.
Chad has been working in the lab since his freshman year and has been trained in various techniques such as two photon microscopy and neuronal response analysis. The focus of his research is auditory attention of Zebrafish. The lab uses behavioral assays on Zebrafish to determine their ability to pay attention and respond to different complex auditory stimuli. They use a visual rewarding and aversive stimulus paradigm to test the Zebrafish’s response. The microscopy and neuronal response analysis are used to establish both a neural and physiological basis for complex sound recognition and attention processes.
Reflection:
During his time in the lab, Chad has been able to learn from different contributing mentors and peers. The lab has given him strengths as a researcher, but also as an individual working in the sciences. Chad says that the pursuit of scientific endeavor with a team has allowed him to truly experience the wonder of scientific exploration. He says that research provides a unique window into scientific exploration.
For those who are looking to get involved with research at Georgetown, Chad advises students not to be afraid to put themselves out there. Even without prior research experience, everyone brings unique talents and skills that are essential to the research process. He says that everyone should pursue research opportunities that sound interesting to them, and there will be a chance to apply your talents.