What are your academic experiences prior to your time in Amsterdam?

I studied Biomedical Sciences in Greece where I gained a broad lab experience and explored various techniques. By the second year of my studies, I had discovered that topics related to the human brain were the most effortless and enjoyable for me to study.

My interest deepened as I learned more, and I began to self-study neuroscience extensively.  I had always said that I wanted to do research, but I knew I could never be entirely sure without trying it firsthand. During the final year of my studies I had the opportunity to do my internship at a large hospital in Greece, mainly working in diagnostics. It was there that I was convinced that routine diagnostics were not for me and that I had to pursue my dream in doing research in neuroscience. Therefore, I decided to pursue a master's degree in neuroscience, with my main priority being research-oriented.

How did you find this master’s and scholarship?

I began searching on the internet for neuroscience master's programmes and I came across the master Brain and Cognitive Sciences.  There were three key factors that convinced me. Firstly, the large variety of courses allow you to design your study plan as you like. Secondly, one of the two years is dedicated to research projects only. Lastly, the programme handed me the opportunity to get to know and work with people from different disciplines, which allows me to approach my favourite subject from many different angles. I later learned about the AMS scholarship on the UvA website. Although I was uncertain about the outcome, I considered it another great opportunity, as it would give me the freedom to fully  dedicate myself to my studies, and fortunately, I was awarded the scholarship.

What’s surprised you most about studying here?

In just one year, I feel I have learned more than during my four years of undergraduate studies. I believe that this is due to the way courses are conducted, which truly prepare you for a research environment. We are asked to write research proposals, present small projects regularly, discuss and critically analyse cutting-edge research papers, work in the laboratory, and collaborate with people who have very different cultural and academic backgrounds. All of this was new to me, and I believe it has equipped me in the best possible way for my next academic steps. Another important aspect for me, as well as for every international student, is how welcoming the university has been from the very beginning. The continuous support and guidance provided made my transition very smooth and allowed me to focus on what I enjoy most.

Could you explain your researchproject to a layman? 

I did a researchproject for Emma Children's Hospital about the protein synaptotagmin 1. This is one of the proteins that regulate neuron communication by ensuring neurotransmitters are released properly. Changes in the gene of this protein can disrupt the process by which neurons communicate with each other, leading to serious neurological problems for patients. Since this disease was only officially described a few years ago, it remains relatively unknown. The number of diagnosed cases is expected to rise in the future.

I finished my project in Niels Cornelisse’s lab at Functional Genomics (FGA) based at the Vrije Universiteit and the Amsterdam UMC. Here, I tested whether specific compounds could restore normal synaptic transmission in neurons carrying the SYT1 (synaptotagmin 1) mutation, with the aim of identifying potential therapeutic strategies for patients with this mutation. His lab collaborated with the Emma Children’s Hospital, where we presented our results to determine whether the drug could be applied to a patient carrying the mutation.

What drives you to do this type of research? What motivates you most?

I believe that studying the fundamental building blocks of the brain is essential to understanding its complex functions. At the same time, I have always been drawn to research with translational value, where the results could eventually benefit patients. For me, staying motivated means seeing both the relevance and applicability of my work. I also enjoy using methods and techniques that fascinate me, such as iPSCs and patch-clamp recordings, which hold great potential in neuroscience.

My recent research project combined all of these elements, making it an ideal match for my interests. Just as important, the environment in which I work is highly motivating. Being surrounded by people who are passionate and dedicated to their research truly inspires me.

What is the importance of interdisciplinarity in your education and research?

Interdisciplinarity helps me understand my field in greater depth and from multiple perspectives. It allows me to apply knowledge that may initially seem unrelated to my field. Through this interdisciplinary Master’s programme, I have learned the importance of being receptive to new information that might previously have been overlooked. Moreover, I believe that interdisciplinarity leads to more effective problem-solving, raises new research questions, and fosters faster and more innovative progress. Research often requires focusing on very specific details, which can sometimes feel narrow or repetitive. Collaborating with people from other disciplines, or exploring new approaches, brings back a sense of excitement and creativity and it can make research both more productive and more enjoyable.