I think all of us know someone who we would describe as a birdbrain. You know, that one friend or distant cousin who’s just not completely there all the time. I’m not quite sure how this saying came to be, but regardless, we may have to reconsider our use of this term. Turns out, birdbrains are quite complex – go figure – and share many similarities to the human brain. Song birds, and in my specific case zebra finches, are one of the only non-human species who learn to vocalize, and are thus an ideal model to help elucidate the mechanisms that control vocal learning in humans. This summer, I’ll be devoted to studying the neural mechanisms and brains of zebra finches with the Mooney Lab.
I’ve only been in-lab a few times so far, but here are a few key takeaways: 1). Make sure to close the doors when handling the birds (they WILL try to escape) 2). The brain is remarkably complex. Referring to that second point – while attempting to understand the intricacies of the brain can be quite daunting, it is something that I expect from this summer. I expect to be confused – thrown into the deep end of neurobiology and scientific jargon. Yet, I don’t believe this to be a negative thing. Confusion leads to questions, and questions serve as the foundation for new discovery and innovation. Thus, while I expect to be confused, maybe even overwhelmed by the breadth of new material presented before me, I also expect myself to start asking questions – questions that have answers to them and possibly questions that have yet to be asked.
Finally, I expect and am very excited to form new relationships this summer. The opportunity to be mentored by and work alongside individuals who are at the forefront of innovation and science is something I do not take for granted. I’m truly thrilled to meet and forge connections with faculty and fellow students who are so passionate about their research, and I am hopeful that some of their passion influences my work as a scientist and individual.
