Giulia Cocco is a first-year Master’s student in neuroscience under the supervision of Dr. Jason Snyder. We caught up with Giulia to learn more about her research interests and her experience as a graduate student.
What is your thesis project on? What made you want to pursue this topic?
I am currently investigating the role of the hippocampus in anxiety-like behaviour in mice and developing a contextual fear conditioning paradigm that will help us investigate long-term effects in infant mice that go through early life stress experiences. Previously, I focused solely on the hippocampus in the context of spatial encoding. However, I have come to understand that memories are multifaceted, with their emotional valence playing a crucial role in their significance. My graduate thesis allows me to explore this less-examined function of the hippocampus. It’s both exciting and occasionally confusing, but it feels like venturing into uncharted territory, much like exploring the “dark side of the moon.”
Are there any topics in neuroscience you’re particularly passionate about? Why?
Aside from my thesis project, I am very interested in the role of the immune system in the CNS (e.g., microglia and astrocytes). From what I have seen, a dysfunctional immune system seems to be a commonality between many neurodegenerative diseases; instead of targeting main pathogens, I wonder if using a peripheral route like treating immunity might provide a better therapeutic for patients.
What is your educational background?
I graduated from the University of Lethbridge (AB) with a BSc in Neuroscience and Psychology. I previously worked under the tutelage of Dr. Robert Sutherland, investigating the effects of serotonin receptor agonists in Alzheimer’s neuropathology in mice.
What skills do you bring from your previous education and what skills are you gaining currently in the graduate program?
Since I had a lot of research experience in my undergrad, I thought I was prepared for what would come in my Master’s, but nope! Graduate school is on a different level. Compared to my previous years, right now, I feel more involved in my research and more prone to socializing with my colleagues and talking science!
What kind of research does your lab do?
Our research uses transgenic animals and viral tools to investigate how hippocampal neurogenesis influences memory, decision-making, and stress-related behaviours across the lifespan. We employ immunohistochemistry and in vitro electrophysiology to quantify and characterize neurogenesis while exploring the broader interactions among neurons in the dentate gyrus, hippocampus, and related structures that regulate behaviour.
Why did you choose neuroscience?
Neuroscience is a multidisciplinary field that encompasses the human experience from behaviour to the molecular level. To me, this intersectionality offered the most well-rounded education where I did not feel like I was missing out on anything!
What sparked your interest in research?
Honestly, it all started with curiosity. After my introductory Neuro course, I asked my TA, “How does one work with rats?” Fast forward three years, and I was running my own project, though with mice. Now, two years later, I’ve completed the first year of my master’s program. Curiosity has driven my entire career. Each project I complete leaves me with more questions than I started with. It’s a self-sustaining system where the boundaries of my curiosity expand as I gain more knowledge.
What do you like to do outside of research?
I am a homebody at heart, which implies that in my free time I like to cook, do crafts and call my family and friends to hear how they are doing.
Do you have a favourite inspirational quote?
“Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity.”
– Seneca
