I knew science was behind every aspect of life, but I never realized how much depth each area of science covered. Science really has no limits, and the more I learn about it, the more curious I become to discover what’s out there. I didn’t know much about research before this program, and getting a sneak peek into so many varying labs was really eye-opening.
Dr. Jonathan Viventi’s talk really spiked my interest. He is working in neuroengineering where they place censors in the brain that can pick up signals from neurons that can then be translated into movement. The cochlear implant can make deaf kids able to hear, and they have even developed early models of implants to restore vision for the blind! It’s amazing how much the brain can affect the whole body. I’m fascinated by how every movement and thought we make is controlled by our brain. I can’t believe we have the technology to understand these mechanisms and even translate them to foreign objects such as prosthetic limbs. I have always been very interested in prosthetics. As a dancer, I rely on movement to express myself and it brings me so much joy. I think the giving the gift of movement back to someone who doesn’t have an arm or leg is the most extraordinary thing. The work that Dr. Viventi’s lab is doing is so inspiring and truly amazing.
