While my time in the classroom built a strong foundation, hands-on research has helped me develop my own passions. UM has also shown me that each research lab is unique, shaped by the curiosity and interests of the researchers within it.
Here are three labs whose experience I’ll take with me after I graduate:
Located in the Missoula Public Library, the Minds Lab redefines the traditional research setting by engaging the community in science activities and studying how children think about the minds of others. That’s the rhythm of research. Each day brought something new, but with a supportive team, curiosity and passion, I soon found my rhythm.
Under Dr. Rachel Severson’s guidance, I collaborated on multiple research projects, created my own educational activities, and expanded my understanding of what research can be. Some days involved driving robots around, others were spent teaching kids about brains. And some days were quieter, dedicated to carefully analyzing data.
Researchers have incredible grit, showing up daily to pursue what they deeply care about, and the LEDE Lab is no exception. Fueled by a commitment to rural healthcare, the LEDE Lab, led by Dr. Martin-Wagar, explores eating disorder treatments—examining outcomes, mechanisms of change, and access to care.
My time here has taught me when to push myself and when to ask for help. Every question has been met with thoughtful answers, turning into valuable learning moments.
Taken in your third or fourth year, the Neuroscience Techniques Lab is a research “boot camp.” We spent hours examining tiny mouse brains, mastering high-tech microscopes, making just the right concentration of chemicals, and using AI to track dendrite growth.
Working on two high-level research experiments alongside an amazing group of classmates reminded me just how vital collaboration is. Trusting each other’s strengths to produce a professional research paper and presentation required teamwork, accountability, and problem-solving.
UM is an R1 School, meaning it’s one of the top in the country for research in regards to funding and doctoral degrees. But unlike many R1 Schools, like the Ivy Leagues, UM has a much smaller student body. Attending an R1 institute with only ~10,000 undergraduates gave me the chance to dive into high-level research early in my career.
Opportunities to get involved in research are everywhere, you just have to ask! Find topics that fascinate you, be curious, and seek guidance from faculty. Research is waiting, so jump in and explore!
Julia Brink is a Grizzly from Erie, Colorado and will be graduating with her Cognitive Neuroscience and Psychology degrees. After graduation, she plans to stay in Missoula and work as a Neuropsychometrist at St. Patrick’s Hospital before she begins to apply for graduate school.