Research Ambassadors
Laura Houle ‘26
Email me at: lhoule2@u.rochester.edu
Discipline(s) of Research
- Life sciences
Major(s) and Minor(s)
- BS in Neuroscience
- Minor in Music
Areas of Interest/Research Focus
Analyzing EMG data at various stages in post-stroke recovery to identify predictors of chronic motor control impairments. PI Dr. Ania Busza, Movement and Plasticity Lab, URMC Neurology Department
Assessing the quality of life of heart failure patients with a Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD)- PI Dr. Jeffrey Alexis, URMC Cardiology Department
Comparing the retained primitive neurological reflexes in children from Rwanda and the United States- Neurodevelopmental Institute of New Hampshire
Areas where I may be particularly helpful
- Finding the best research fit/getting started
- Drafting cold emails
- Public speaking and presentation skills
- Clinical research
- Time management
What advice do you have for prospective or new researchers?
It is completely normal to not have everything figured out, and most people feel intimidated at first when starting research. Asking a lot of questions and not being afraid to put yourself out there is key, since joining a lab is as much about making sure it’s the right fit for you as it is about the lab seeing if you’re a fit for them. Your interests will evolve and refine as you gain experience, and discovering what doesn't excite you is equally as valuable as finding out what does.