Nancy Chiraki

What initially inspired you to work at Queen Square Brain Bank?

While completing my MSc in Clinical Neuroscience at the Queen Square Institute of Neurology, I attended a brain cut for the first time - I had never seen a human brain before. The experience was incredibly fascinating, and I was especially impressed by the neuropathologist’s in-depth demonstration and attention to detail. I left feeling inspired. Having previously worked with patients, I wanted to explore the “behind-the-scenes” of neurological disease, the pathology itself. I reached out to the neuropathologist, who offered me a research project in her lab, and later, a full-time position as a Research Technician.

How long have you been at UCL and what is your current role?

I have been at UCL for almost three years now. I did a part-time masters in Clinical Neuroscience and I now work as a Research Technician in the Jaunmuktane lab, focusing on Parkinson’s disease.

What working achievements are you most proud of?

I’m proud of how far I’ve come, especially coming from a psychology background with no prior lab experience. In the past two years, I’ve developed a wide range of laboratory skills, from brain tissue sectioning to conducting spatial transcriptomics experiments, through both my MSc project and my current role. It’s been a steep learning curve, and I’m grateful for how much I’ve grown.

Where do you hope your career will go in the future?

I’ll soon be starting a PhD in the same lab I currently work in, and I’m excited to continue learning and growing over the next four years. I try not to plan too far ahead as I never really expected to end up where I am now! I’m open to exploring different paths, whether that’s working in industry or transitioning into areas like patent law. Ultimately, I hope to be in a position where I can help people - that’s the most fulfilling part of this field for me.

What’s the best advice you would give your younger self?

I would tell my younger self that I am very proud of her for working hard and chasing every opportunity presented to her. I just wish she had done it with a little less stress and self- doubt. I would remind her that rejection is simply redirection, and that people are always around to help, especially at the Queen Square Brain Bank!