Eric Milligan is a senior concentrating in Neuroscience and secondary in Economics. He is conducting research at the Dr. Bonmassar's laboratory, Martino's Imaging Center, MGH, studying micromagnetic stimulation of the Vagus nerve since Summer 2018.
Student's perspective:
The research that I conducted was on micromagnetic stimulation of the vagus nerve. Micromagnetic stimulation is an exciting new type of nerve stimulation that uses sub-millimeter microcoils to emit magnetic fields, which can in turn induce action potentials in nerves. This project was a proof-of-concept, in that the goal was to determine whether micromagnetic stimulation could stimulate the vagus nerve in rats, and if so what the effects of that stimulation might be. I worked as an assistant in the lab, constructing the implants used to test the microcoils and assisting with the experiments.
During the course of my internship with Dr. Bonmassar’s lab, I’ve had the privilege of learning a great deal about a relatively new field that I may never have had the chance to hear about in a classroom setting. The opportunity to “get in on the ground floor” of a project that has the potential to change the way nerve stimulation is done has been its own reward. Working on this project has reaffirmed my interest in brain implants, as well as my interest in neuroscience as a whole. As a final note, I would like to add that Dr. Bonmassar is a wonderful mentor with a great deal to teach, especially for those who are just beginning their careers in research.