As part of the Science Unplugged program offered through Stony Brook University’s Alan Alda Center for Communicating Science, Rocky Point High School students in Guy Reid’s Human Anatomy and Physiology classes learned about the connection between electricity and brain function during a guest lecture from Julia Tomasello, a graduate researcher at Stony Brook University. 

During Ms. Tomasello’s presentation, “Your Brain: It’s Electric,” students discussed the structure of stem cells and how electrical transmission problems relate to neurodegenerative conditions such as Parkinson’s disease. Students also discussed current and future possible treatments for these conditions. These discussions tied to class topics related to the brain and human nervous system. Ms. Tomasello also shared information about life as a university student and as a researcher.

The Science Unplugged program allows students to speak with professionals from the field, ask them about their research and familiarize themselves with what it means to be a research scientist. Rocky Point High School looks forward to continuing to schedule additional speaking opportunities with the university.