Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience Interns Share Outstanding Neuroscience Research Presentations
When asked, “What did you do on your summer vacation?” eight local students will have an exciting and unusual answer. These students have spent six weeks conducting cutting-edge neuroscience research at the Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience, culminating in presentations of their findings to an audience of researchers, community leaders, and family members on Friday, July 21, 2023.
The 2023 intern class was selected from schools across Palm Beach and Martin Counties and was comprised of high-achieving students demonstrating an exceptional passion for science. This year’s MPFI interns were:
- Elisabeth Coller – Martin County High School
- Hailey Garcia – Palm Beach Central High School
- Jonathan Hus – Donna Klein Jewish Academy
- Connor Johnston – Jupiter High School
- Dylan Nguyen – A.W. Dreyfoos High School
- Jacob Ryabinky – Suncoast High School
- Makena Senzon – A.W. Dreyfoos High School
- Lydia Taylor – Saint Andrew’s School
The student’s research projects covered many areas, including disorders of neural circuits, tools for optimizing neural imaging, synaptic communication, and the use of AI and machine learning in data analysis.
“We are incredibly proud of the exceptional work done by these talented individuals during their time with us,” said Dr. Ilaria Drago, Head of Education Outreach at the Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience. “Their enthusiasm for neuroscience research is truly inspiring. We believe they have a bright future ahead as future leaders in the field.”
The highly competitive internship program at the Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience aims to foster a passion for science in the next generation of researchers. Under the mentorship of distinguished researchers, the interns were provided with invaluable guidance and exposure to the institute’s state-of-the-art laboratory facilities. The internship program is a donor-funded initiative that has benefited nearly 80 students since the institute opened in 2012.
Missed the event? Click here to watch the presentations.
