For Johann Valera -Vega, an adult in biological sciences on the neurobiology track of Arizona State University, a study trip abroad in Mexico turned out to be more than a simple adventure – it was the turn of his trip to science and research.
Raised in the rural community of Pendleton, Oregon, Valera-Vega has not seen a clear path to a future in science. He first came to Arizona State University on a pre-medical track, in the hope of pursuing a career as a doctor. But everything changed when he went to La Paz as part of a course led by the ASU researcher Jesse Senko.
There, he swam with whale sharks, labeled sea turtles and studied the intersection of marine biology and local peaches. More than work in the field, the journey has opened its eyes to the power of research, science and conservation focused on the community.
“This experience has completely upset my initial aspirations,” said Valera-Vega, who receives his baccalaureate at the Sciences from the School of Life Sciences. “It helped me rediscover my love for biological discovery and showed me how exciting and impactful science can be.”
More than anything, it showed him that scientific research was a career he could pursue.
Back at ASU, he joined the inclusion of the hand Jeffrey Kordower At ASU-Banner Neurodegenerative Diseases Research Center. His research has focused on different therapeutic strategies for neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.
Along the way, he also aroused interest in exploring links between environmental toxins and neurodegenerative disorders – the work he plans to continue at Duke University this fall, where he will start a doctorate in toxicology and environmental health.
Valera-Vega is the first of his family to pursue a doctorate, and he hopes to use science to stimulate the change of policy and extend access to environmental and public health resources, especially in rural areas like that where he grew up.
“My trip was not something that I could have predicted, but I am incredibly grateful to the mentors who helped me guide me here,” he said.
Find out more about Johann Valera-Vega’s experience at ASU below.
Note: The responses have been modified for duration and clarity.
Question: Why did you choose to work at the Biodesign Institute?
Answer: I was looking for ways to get involved in research in neuroscience when I came across the Winure program, which connected me to the laboratory of Dr. Kordower. It ended up being an incredible research experience where I studied the effectiveness of different therapeutic methods for neurodegenerative disorders. The Biodesign Institute has such a unique and connected scientists doing significant research, and it seemed to be a privilege to be part of it.
Q: What did you learn there who surprised you or changed your point of view?
A: I was surprised by the little and interconnected of the scientific world. During my internship at the Marine Biological Laboratory, I was chatting with a guest scientist and discovered that he was Postdoc with the professor who taught my neurophysiology course. It’s a little world, and these kinds of connections occur all the time – it’s really exciting.
Q: What is an important lesson that your mentor at the Biodesign Institute taught you?
A: My winning mentor, Dr. Ramon velazquezgave me advice while I applied to higher studies that really stuck me. He told me to never be satisfied with it – knowing my value and looking for environments where I am respected and appreciated. As a first generation Hispanic scientist himself, he was a huge inspiration and a model, showing me that it is not only ok to take up the place, but necessary.
Q: What is the best advice you give to those who are still at school?
A: Stay curious and open -minded. It’s ok if your interests change – it’s part of learning. If something excites you, even unexpectedly, continue it. Some of the best things that came to me came to make jumps that I was not sure at the time. Most importantly, be nice to yourself and towards others.
Q: What was your favorite place at ASU, whether to study, meet friends or just think about life?
A: THE Skyspace garden Outdoor biodesign. I come from Oregon, so I really missed the greenery. But this place, with all Palo Verde trees, helped scratch these itching. I would go there during the long laboratory days just to reset and soak up the sun. It has become a small sanctuary for me.
Q: What are your projects after graduation?
A: This fall, I head to Duke University to start my doctorate in toxicology and environmental health. I want to explore how chemicals like the APF affect communities and the brain, and I hope to take advantage of this research to influence public health policy and the legislation that strives to promote safer and healthier communities.
Q: If someone gave you $ 50 million to solve a problem on our planet, what would you do?
A: I would use it to provide quality education and resources to rural communities in the United States, there can be a great gap between the scientific community and rural America, and I know with the first hand that there is a cultural skepticism towards science in these communities. Part of this is due to a lack of resources, opportunities and under-representation of scientists who come from rural communities. If we want more diverse voices and ideas in science, we must start by establishing trust and providing local education in all communities.