Shivani Jayaprakasam
Mary Gates Research Scholar
Winter 2025
Major: Neuroscience
Mentor: Thomas Wood, Pediatrics
Project
Healing the Tiniest Minds: Exploring Azithromycin’s Region-Specific Neonatal Neuroprotection in a Ferret Model of Hypoxic-Ischemic Brain Injury
Preterm birth is a leading cause of under-5 mortality and neurological damage. Despite this, there is no standard preventative care or cure. Our lab uses a neonatal ferret model to explore repurposing azithromycin to treat hypoxic-ischemic brain injury in preterm infants.
What I learned
Throughout my research experience, I have gained a deep understanding of scientific processes and the persistence required to navigate its complexities. Working on a long-term study involving preterm brain injury, I’ve learned to troubleshoot technical challenges in quantitative immunohistochemistry, manage data across a large sample size, and interpret region-specific differences cell activity and tissue injury. Leading the histology and data analyses components of our study has strengthened my ability to synthesize literature, guide experimental direction, and communicate findings with clarity.
Advice for future applicants
I would advise future applicants to fully embrace the learning process, including setbacks and breakthroughs. Don’t hesitate to ask questions, take initiative, and advocate for your role in the project. Clarify how your work fits into the bigger picture and focus on your contributions. Be authentic and let your curiosity and commitment to learning shine through in your writing.
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