This summer, I conducted my ARIA research project titled Sex Differences in Fear Generalization: An Optogenetic Investigation under the supervision of Professor Tak Pan Wong. Based on the higher rates of anxiety disorders and PTSD in females, my project aimed to investigate why females are more likely to generalize fear and avoidance, using a light-based method in mice.
I applied for this ARIA project because of my deep interest in behavioral neuroscience and my aspiration to pursue a PhD in this field. Before this summer, I had never worked with animal models, and I saw this project as an exciting opportunity to explore a completely new aspect of psychology research. I was particularly drawn to the chance to work with optogenetics鈥攁 method that uses light to control brain cells鈥攚hich I had only encountered in textbooks and lectures before. This summer gave me my first hands-on experience with this advanced technique, and it has helped me identify the specific research direction I want to pursue for graduate school.
My learning objectives were to develop technical proficiency in using mice to examine mechanisms of memory formation, with a focus on sex differences in fear generalization. I aimed to learn key techniques, including behavior mouse models, mouse perfusion, and light-based modulation of brain activity using optogenetics. I also sought to gain behavioral testing skills to examine fear memory, as well as training in designing and conducting controlled optogenetic and behavioral experiments.
One of the highlights of my summer was successfully learning how to perform mouse cardiac perfusion. After keep reviewing and watching steps online, finally on my fourth attempt, I was able to correctly inject PBS and PFA into the correct location of the mouse鈥檚 heart, indicated by the mouse鈥檚 tail lifting. This moment was especially rewarding because it marked the mastery of a skill I had initially found daunting. Being able to execute this delicate procedure with precision gave me a sense of accomplishment and confidence in my technical abilities. And one challenge I encountered was the inconsistent behavior during fear-generalization tests, which made the results harder to interpret. I systematically ruled out potential stressors and identified stress as a key factor. To reduce it, I tried adding white noise, increased gentle handling, and transferred them slowly and carefully to avoid startling them. These adjustments noticeably stabilized their behavior. This experience taught me that even small environmental and procedural changes can have a significant impact on reducing variability and improving the reliability of behavioral data.
The ARIA experience has had a significant impact on my future academic path. It confirmed my passion for behavioral neuroscience and my interest in investigating fear and negative emotions through translational research. I am now actively preparing my graduate school applications in this field, and several professors I have spoken with have expressed interest in my summer research experience. The skills and insights I have gained will undoubtedly support my future academic and professional growth.
The ARIA Award provided crucial financial support for my project, covering transportation costs that allowed me to commute daily to the laboratory, which is about ten kilometers from my home. This made my work much more convenient and ensured that I could dedicate my full attention to my experiments without logistical concerns. I am sincerely grateful for this support, which made my summer research experience more convenient.
In closing, I would like to thank the Arts Undergraduate Society for the Arts Student Employment Fund (ASEF), and my professor Tak Pan Wong who made this award possible. This summer project was a transformative experience that not only equipped me with valuable technical skills but also helped me clarify my academic goals. I am excited to continue working in this research area and to seek further opportunities to contribute to our understanding of the brain and behavior.
