NSP Fellows Spotlight: Krystal M. Santiago Colon
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- Neuroscience Scholars Program
This interview is part of the “Neuroscience Scholars Program Fellows Spotlight” collection, in which current Neuroscience Scholars Program (NSP) fellows highlight their careers, achievements, and the importance of diverse perspectives in neuroscience. Read on to learn more about Krsytal M. Santiago Colon a third-year PhD candidate at the University of Michigan from Cayey, Puerto Rico.
Can you share a little bit about your background?
I am from Cayey, Puerto Rico, where coqui frogs sing loudly at night and the morning fog lies on the skirts of green mountains. Growing up here, I developed a fascination for nature and science. I stayed in Cayey for my bachelor's degree and studied biology at the University of Puerto Rico at Cayey. Now, I am a third-year PhD candidate in the pharmacology department at the University of Michigan. I constantly miss home, but I am proud to represent Puerto Rico wherever I go.
Describe your journey in neuroscience and current research.
Throughout my undergraduate studies, I studied how the brain regulates feeding, estradiol signaling in dopaminergic neurons, spinal cord motor circuits, and neuropeptide-mediated pain pathways. These experiences led me to pursue a PhD in pharmacology at the University of Michigan. Currently, in the Mattis and Isom labs, I investigate epilepsy circuit mechanisms, focusing on cholinergic nuclei in the Scn1a mouse model of Dravet syndrome.
Why do you think diversity is important in neuroscience?
There is something special about being in a room filled with people from diverse backgrounds; you can feel it. I often think how our knowledge can truly impact the world if it doesn't benefit everyone. Incorporating diverse perspectives into neuroscience is crucial in ensuring our research resonates widely. Importantly, diversity in neuroscience inspires the next generation of neuroscientists to pursue careers in the field because they see themselves represented.
What drove you to apply for the NSP?
Previous neuroscience scholars have made impactful contributions to my career. Knowing that many of my mentors were part of this program motivated me to apply for the NSP. I sought to build a community beyond my institution, since community is of the most important source of support during the PhD journey. Additionally, I was eager to find mentorship to help explore my career aspirations.
Describe your experience as an underrepresented neuroscientist. How has this impacted you?
Being an underrepresented neuroscientist has meant putting in double the effort to achieve what my peers have. Coming from a small institution with limited research funding, navigating natural disasters, austerity measures, and a colonial status meant leaving home to pursue my career in neuroscience. These experiences have given me a strong commitment to helping others reach their goals, even when they seem out of reach.
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