Marjolein did her bachelor studies in biology at Utrecht University and continued with her master education in the master Neuroscience & Cognition, the cognitive neuroscience track. Currently she works as a PhD student at the Department of Pharmaceutical science, Division Pharmacology, Utrecht University.
What does she like about neuroscience and cognition?
“Studying not only the inner workings of neurons, but also the altered behavior emanating from the brain. Neuropsychopharmacology fits my interests just right.”
What did she do during the master?
At Solvay Pharmaceuticals, which was recently acquired by Abbott, Kops worked on a preclinical mouse model of schizophrenia. She enjoyed the ample availability of resources and found the drug company a stimulating environment.
“But having your results publicized in peer-reviewed journals is obviously not as big a priority as it is in an academic setting”, Kops acknowledges. “Still, working in a large company broadens your horizon and greatly contributes to your contacts.”
What’s more…
“I had a great time as student representative, I would advise anyone to engage in these kind of extracurricular activities. It wasn’t easy to combine with my research, but it was definitely worth the effort. I helped organizing the symposium ‘Mind the brain’ and founded a peer-reviewed journal. This journal is limited to participants of the master Neuroscience & Cognition, but it helps students getting familiar with the whole publication process. From drafting and submitting your manuscript, to handling peer-review and rewriting your article. A good preparation for real life science. In addition, these activities were great in bringing back together students who were scattered over many labs and institutions.”