Grad Slam Finalist Profile: Neuroscience Graduate Student Lindsay Cameron
Meet Lindsay Cameron, Neuroscience Graduate Student and Grad Slam Finalist
Name
Lindsay Cameron (she/her)
Program, Degree & Year of Study
Neuroscience, Ph.D., 5th year
Research Interest
Depression, Psychedelics
Previous Degree and College
BSc. in Pharmacology & Therapeutics from McGill University
Title of Grad Slam Presentation
Rethinking Psychedelics
Describe your presentation style in three words
Engaging, Informative, Succinct
What did you do to prepare for Grad Slam?
Practice!
If you are a returning Grad Slammer, what made you want to compete again?
GradSlam was canceled last year and I was so excited about it! I am very excited to be here again.
What initially attracted you to your field of study?
Depression (and related disorders like anxiety, PTSD and addiction) are common disorders that have devastating consequences on people's quality of life and the lives of those around them. The medications we currently have are inadequate, and for the first time in decades, we may have a better therapeutic option.
Grad Slam is about presenting complex ideas for a general audience. Why would people want to learn more about your research?
Depression and related disorders are common! In addition, psychedelics have gained a reputation as a party drug. The intersection of these two worlds—psychedelics for a therapeutic purpose—is fascinating, especially when you can see how it changes the brain!
What do you like to do in your free time?
Backpack summit mountains and garden!
Do you have any mentors who helped you develop your interest and strength in research communication? If so, how did they help you?
My mentor, Dr. David Olson, is a fantastic presenter and has coached me for years to refine my presentation style.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
Running my own lab and living in a jungle with approximately 16 pet cats!
Learn More About UC Davis Grad Slam Finalists
Learn more about the other finalists. Read the Grad Slam Finalist Profiles.
Watch the Final Round Virtual Competition
This year, the continuing COVID-19 pandemic has added a new video component to the already challenging public speaking event. The finalists will compete against each other at the UC Davis Final Round during National Graduate and Professional Student Appreciation Week. Cheer on the Grad Slam finalists virtually on Thursday, April 8, from 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. RSVP to reserve your spot!
The winner of the campus final round will have the opportunity to compete at the University of California-wide competition on May 7. In 2019, UC Davis champion and Plant Biology Ph.D. candidate Katie Murphy went on to win the top University of California prize of $6,000. Visit the Grad Slam website to learn more about UC Davis Grad Slam.
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Graduate Studies would like to thank this year's UC Davis Grad Slam sponsors for their generosity and support.
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