Madison W
- Research Program Mentor
PhD candidate at University of California San Diego (UCSD)
Expertise
Neural electronic devices (Electrical Engineering with a focus in Neuroscience)
Bio
My interest in Electrical Engineering and Neuroscience stems from a desire to utilize engineering tactics to study the brain. I find it fascinating that our brains are so powerful and able to control emotion, perception, cognition, and behavior so efficiently. My current research involves designing mircoelectrodes which probe the brain and give us information on the electrical activity of neurons in animals and cell cultures. Using this information, we can gain a better understanding of biological neural networks when they function correctly and in disorder. In my free time, I like exploring all the outdoor activities San Diego has to offer. I enjoy surfing, beach bonfires, and hiking and especially appreciate the lack of mosquitoes here. Occasionally I see a dolphin which makes my day. When I'm not outside or in lab, I enjoy doing jigsaw puzzles, cross-stitching, and playing board games with friends.Project ideas
Electricity of the Body
All our thoughts and movements are controlled by electrochemical interactions at the cellular scale. Here, you can learn how our cells communicate through action potentials and neurotransmitter emission. Additionally, learn how scientists use those signals to control prosthetic devices, ameliorate seizures, and reduce Parkinson's disease tremors. How else can we record signals from the body and use that technology to improve people's lives?
Circuit Fundamentals
Ever look inside a computer or remote control and wonder what those tiny, complex plastic and metal pieces do? They actually form circuits which facilitate the transfer of electrons to the correct places to control your devices! Here you can learn about the fundamentals of current, resistance, and voltage and how to design a circuit to create a calculator or radio. Going further, you can translate your circuit diagram into a physical circuit and manufacture your own functional printed circuit board (PCB).