Outreach Executive 2010-2011

In progress: Masters of Science, Neuroscience (Carleton University)

Completed: Bachelors of Science, Psychology Minor Statistics (Carleton University)

Email: rkhazal AT connect.carleton.ca

Website: www.neurobites.wordpress.com

About Me

A self-proclaimed lab rat I am usually found in one of three places; the lab, the community centre or the library... Look for me in that order. I have a slight obsession with the brain, caffeine, National Geographic and building construction. As a child I had dreams of becoming; a firefighter, police officer, civil engineer, a marine trainer, a pilot, an adventurer, a sleuth, a Lego builder (don't judge) and so on and so forth. To say that I was interested in everything (still am) would be an understatement. A source of amusement to my family, I was encouraged to pursue whatever I wanted at the time, with plenty of not so subtle hints to follow the family tradition and pursue career in engineering.

Undergraduate Studies

My choice

The plan was to complete a degree in Aerospace Engineering and become an asset to NASA by the age of 30. So much for that eh? I was blindsided by Neuroscience and have not looked back since. Volunteering in the lab early in my undergrad, I discovered lab work and fell unequivocally in love with the romance of science. Regardless of hours spent troubleshooting (there are countless) I found that nothing (so far) could come close to the excitement that neuroscience research seems to ignite. My undergraduate projects looked at the potential role of the gut hormone ghrelin in the stress response under the supervision of Dr. Alfonso Abizaid.

Graduate Studies

Now

Needless to say that continuing research at a graduate level seemed to be the most ideal option after my completion of my undergrad. My current research continues to the look at the role of ghrelin in the stress response, in both genders under different stress paradigms and the resulting metabolic consequences. Aside from occasional bouts of Imposter Syndrome, I think it's going well so far... Fingers Crossed!

Long Term Goals

So what are you going to do after your done?, What are you going to do with the rest of your life?? . People. Let me finish this degree and then we can discuss the rest of my life. Pushy pushy. Frankly, I love research, I love teaching and I love the challenge it brings. So a Ph.D. is definitely an option. But then again so is being a Lego builder.

Women in Science and Engineering

Why I Joined

The vision and mission of WISE strongly aligned with my opinions. I never felt like a minority in Neuroscience and qualitatively female enrollment doesn't appear to be an issue. But, I understand that other disciplines are still struggling to attract and support their female students. Supporting, encouraging, and bridging the gap between the department, student population and hopefully the greater community are our goals.

Other Interests

Along with my involvement with WISE, I am the Treasurer for the Society of Neuroscience Ottawa Chapter also at Carleton University.

Outside of my academic pursuits, I am a youth worker and a mentor for a number of Community Health Centers in Ottawa. I love interacting with youth and tailoring programs that will introduce them to resources within their communities and help them reach their full potential.

Recreationally (when I have time to breathe) I am a fan of soccer and rugby. I love love love, learning new things (especially about other research) and am always open to new experiences!