Next Gen Scientists Foundation offers interns an incredible chance to pursue their passion for life science by conducting a project of their choice at their preferred laboratories. We conducted exclusive interviews with our interns and gathered insights into their unique experiences. Read below to know more about Udisha’s journey!
The overall experience was highly enriching and I will forever cherish my first internship—the NGSF internship!
~ Udisha Baisya
Q. What do you study and where?
Udisha: I am pursuing an Integrated M.Sc. course in Biological Sciences at Bangalore University.
Q. Who was your PI and what was your host institute?
Udisha: My Principal Investigator at my host institute, NIMHANS in Bangalore was Dr. Phalguni Anand Alladi, who helped me immensely by providing exceptional guidance and mentorship throughout the entire internship period.
Q. What was your Internship project work and how did you enjoy working on it?
Udisha: My study focused on analytical methods in Neuroscience. The initial days were a little difficult because I was not accustomed to a research-oriented environment. However, my seniors and Dr. Phalguni Anand Alladi made sure that I didn’t feel left out. I attended three sessions of the departmental Journal Club where my seniors would present research papers and engage in scientific discussions. I did a lot of self-study and used the well-equipped library extensively. Despite my work being mainly on the computational side, my seniors demonstrated and explained various wet lab techniques such as cryo-sectioning, immunohistochemistry protocol, immunofluorescence, densitometry, and the cresyl violet staining method. Although I was not permitted to handle animal or human tissues directly, I closely observed these processes, especially the handling of the human brain, which I consider a valuable experience. Overall, I will forever cherish my first internship—the NGSF internship!
Q. How was your experience attending NGS Internship Program?
Udisha: The overall experience was highly enriching. I gained knowledge about Neurodegeneration and Parkinson’s Disease, as well as some fundamentals of Neuroanatomy. My seniors at the host institute were very warm and welcoming. They were always ready to promptly address any questions I had.
Q. Would you recommend your fellow students to apply to NGS Internship Program?
Udisha: Yes, I have already recommended this particular internship program to my friends and juniors. It is indeed a great opportunity for us to gain insight into the practical aspects of life sciences.
Q. Any other comments you would like to add?
Udisha: One suggestion I would like to give to my juniors is to thoroughly investigate the lab they wish to join. Research is a creative and time-consuming process, and not every day will bring something “new” or “exciting.” It’s important to learn about the past and ongoing projects of the chosen lab for a better understanding of the concepts and ideas. Additionally, they should also be patient throughout the entire internship period.
