Dr Laura Whelan and Seán O’Reilly

This summer, we are giving talented undergraduate students a unique opportunity to dive into neurological research. What distinguishes this internship is its emphasis on providing a real-world glimpse into the life of a neurological researcher and the diverse career pathways in academia. One of our interns, Seán O’Reilly, shares why he chose this internship and what excites him most about the experience. 

Seán’s Journey to Research 

My name is Seán, and I am a third-year genetics student at University College Dublin (UCD). This summer, I’ve been given the opportunity to intern with FutureNeuro at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI). My obsession with biology and understanding how living things like plants began early, but it was a transformative week at the DCU School of Biotechnology during my transition year that solidified my desire for a career in research, a passion that has only grown stronger throughout my time at university. 

The Summer Project: Bioinformatics and Rare Diseases 

This summer, I am excited to work on a bioinformatics-based project supervised by Dr Laura Whelan and Professor Gianpiero Cavalleri. Over six weeks, I aim to catalogue the frequency of rare disease-associated recessive gene variants, specifically in individuals of Irish ancestry. The clinical focus of this project appeals to me, as my personal motivation to participate in research lies in the translation of discoveries in the lab into tangible improvements to patients and people’s lives. The genetics focused approach and the diverse research backgrounds of my supervisors also align well with my own scientific interests. 

Building a Solid Foundation 

During my time at UCD and while on exchange at the University of Edinburgh, I have participated in multiple research projects in both wet and dry labs. These experiences have been invaluable, providing me with a solid foundation in various research techniques. This summer, I’m hoping to build on these experiences and refine my bioinformatic skills, specifically for clinical-genomic research, while also working in a lab with a strong translational focus. 

Future Aspirations 

After this project and completing my undergraduate degree, I hope to use the skills I’ve gained to pursue a PhD investigating the genetics of age-related diseases. This internship with FutureNeuro is a crucial step towards that goal, and I am excited for the journey ahead. 

Seán’s journey highlights the importance of early experiences and hands-on learning in shaping future careers. His summer internship with FutureNeuro not only allows him to contribute to important research but also sets the stage for a promising career in genetics.