Neuroscience Graduate Student Victoria Popov Awarded Prestigious Diversity Fellowship
Victoria Popov, a fifth-year neuroscience graduate student at the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, has been awarded the distinguished F99/K00 NIH BRAIN Initiative Diversity Specialized Predoctoral to Postdoctoral Advancement in Neuroscience (D-SPAN) fellowship by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS). Her pioneering research focuses on exercise-related neural changes that may enhance inhibitory control in individuals, both with and without schizophrenia, marking a significant stride in neuroscience research and diversity.
A Journey Through Academic Excellence
Popov’s academic journey is both inspiring and indicative of her commitment to neuroscience. With a robust background in biomedical sciences from the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), her educational foundation was further solidified through a master’s degree in professional studies, specializing in biomedical sciences, psychology, and health systems administration. This diverse academic expertise has been instrumental in shaping her current research endeavors.
Noteworthy is the fellowship’s provision of six years of funding, encompassing two years for the completion of her graduate degree followed by four years dedicated to postdoctoral research. This generous support is designed to foster the careers of promising students from diverse backgrounds, underscoring the importance of inclusivity in advancing scientific inquiry.
Innovative Research with Local and Global Potential
Popov’s research utilizes cutting-edge techniques like Mobile Brain/Body Imaging (MoBI) and high-density electroencephalography (EEG) to investigate how treadmill walking influences cognitive control processes in the brain. Her ultimate aim is to develop a long-term aerobic exercise intervention for individuals living with schizophrenia, thereby potentially transforming the current treatment paradigms that rely primarily on medication and psychotherapy.
The implications of her work extend beyond immediate scientific circles, bearing potential to influence therapeutic strategies globally. The integration of exercise interventions aligns with a holistic approach to mental health, emphasizing physical activity as a crucial component in managing cognitive disorders.
Broadening the Scope: Postdoctoral Ambitions
In her forthcoming postdoctoral phase, Popov intends to delve into computational strategies for mapping sensory-cognitive neuron processes across the brain using MRI data. Another compelling aspect of her future work involves exploring sensory-cognitive neural circuits that generate auditory and visual hallucinations, particularly among D/deaf and hard-of-hearing (D/HH) individuals living with schizophrenia. Her research, thus, promises to broaden the understanding of how neuronal processes underpin complex sensory and cognitive functions, ultimately informing more personalized treatment algorithms.
Community Engagement and Long-term Goals
In addition to her research, Popov is deeply committed to community engagement and fostering diversity in the field of neuroscience. An active member of the Del Monte Institute Neuroscience Diversity Commission and a co-leader of its NEURO2ALL community outreach group, she is a testament to the positive local impact such initiatives can generate. These roles reflect her dedication not only to advancing science but also to ensuring its benefits are accessible to diverse communities.
Dr. John Foxe, one of her mentors at the University of Rochester, commended her dedication: “Victoria’s work embodies the very essence of groundbreaking research — innovative and impactful. Her passion for inclusivity in science is inspiring, promising to pave the way for future scholars from varied backgrounds.”
Impact on the Rochester Community and Beyond
For Rochester and the broader scientific community, Popov’s achievements highlight the importance of supporting diverse talent in academia. Her research caters to a pressing healthcare issue, with schizophrenia affecting millions globally. Enhancing our understanding and treatment of such complex disorders stands to benefit not only individuals but also their families and communities at large.
Moreover, her involvement with local science outreach initiatives underscores a commitment to translating complex scientific ideas into accessible knowledge, a key element in bridging the gap between academia and public understanding.
Future Directions and Continued Advocacy
Looking forward, Popov’s work could lay the groundwork for future collaborations between academic institutions, healthcare providers, and policymakers to enhance mental health strategies. The potential for aerobic exercise interventions as a supplementary treatment for cognitive disorders represents a paradigm shift, promising more holistic, accessible mental health care solutions.
Community members and stakeholders interested in following Popov’s journey or participating in related local initiatives are encouraged to connect through local neuroscience forums or university-led outreach events. These platforms offer valuable opportunities for engagement, discussion, and collective advancement toward inclusive scientific progress.
As Victoria Popov prepares for the next phase of her career, her story remains a compelling illustration of how diversity and excellence in research can drive meaningful change, both locally and globally. Her dedication to advancing neuroscience through community interest and resident involvement promises to leave a lasting impact on academia and beyond.
For more information on the fellowship and ongoing research at the University of Rochester, interested parties can visit the University of Rochester Medical Center’s website or attend upcoming community science events.
