Dr Elizabeth Berry’s academic journey began with a passion for science. She explored various fields that piqued her interest, including the solar system, ecology and plant science. Ultimately, she found her true calling in biomedical research, where she has chosen to build her academic career.
Whilst studying and graduating with a PhD from 2018 to 2023, she worked as a postdoctoral fellow, lecturer, and is currently assistant professor at New York Medical College. Elizabeth’s research involves studying the orexin, also called the hypocretin, system in the brain. She has been examining how opioids and opioid addiction, as well as chronic opioid exposure, impact the electrical properties of orexin neurons in the hypothalamus. Through her research and teaching, Elizabeth’s goal is to further the scientific understanding of biomedical diseases.
During Elizabeth’s academic spotlight interview, she discusses the highs and lows of studying for a PhD, graduating, and progressing within academia. She describes the waves of emotion, exhaustion, and the challenge of finding her feet after transitioning from being a student and finding her place in the real world.
This interview offers insights and advice about what to expect when starting a PhD and after graduation. You can view Elizabeth’s full interview below:
For more about Elizabeth’s academic journey and science posts, follow her on Instagram.You can also connect with Elizabeth on Linkedin.
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