Name: Elora Williams
Hometown: Salmon, Idaho
Lab: Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory of Xin Jin
Lab websites: https://www.salk.edu/scientist/xin-jin/
Hobbies: Volleyball, surfing, yoga, hiking, painting, reading, and trying anything new
What do you study? I am a research assistant/lab coordinator within a neuroscience lab. I currently study learning by measuring neurochemicals in the brain while animals perform a task to get a reward.
Why is it important? Reinforcement learning is fundamental for deciphering when we should approach something or avoid it. Sometimes our wires get crossed and we begin to seek things that are not necessarily beneficial, addiction is one example. In order for treatment to be improved for those suffering from substance abuse, we must first understand the neural circuitry guiding these behaviors.
How did you become interested in science? My mother, being a biology teacher, fostered my curiosity and exploration of the natural world. Additionally, growing up and seeing how science can change the world motivated me to try and do the same.
What do you like about being a scientist? I love how science challenges me in ways I never thought it would. My way of thinking is continuously evolving and my grit is constantly tested, which is ultimately very empowering. Additionally, science is full of unanswered questions so it’s never boring!
What are 5 general vocabulary terms someone should know going into your field of science?
Brain, neuron, synapse, neurotransmitter, reinforcement
What are 5 specific vocabulary terms someone should know about your research?
Transgenic mice, dopamine, optogenetics, nigrostriatal pathway, reward prediction error