The COMmunicator 2019-20 Vol. 2 | Page 29

What were your top experiences at the conference itself?

It was an incredible experience to attend sessions led by providers from all over the country talk about cutting edge treatments for neuropathic pain and new research initiatives.

How important was the Peter Morgane Fellowship in funding your research and allowing you to attend the conference?

I heard about the Peter Morgane Research Fellowship through my research mentor, Dr. Cao. The Fellowship award made the trip and research more feasible. It is fellowships such as this that provide the opportunity for students to conduct research and attend conferences. Scholarships make a substantial difference in the student’s ability to engage in research. The Peter Morgane Research Scholarship provided me with the means to be a part of the scientific community. I would highly encourage students to apply. It is a very rewarding experience.

What are the next steps for your research?

My research was part of a larger effort to study a receptor called CD137L and how it influences neuropathic pain. Further studies in the Cao lab are ongoing.

How do you see your research informing your own clinical work as a future provider? Conducting research allows me to better interpret new therapeutic options and better understand the amount of effort that goes into developing new therapies. <>

Anything else you want to say about your experience or your research? I could not have conducted the research project without the help of Dr. Cao and Cao lab members, Dr. Ohara, Dr. Wakley, and Dr. Rostama.

Student Doctor Nicholas presenting his research poster at the EPA Fall Meeting