Last month, the University of Kansas Department of Neurology welcomed Naej Jean, a recent graduate of the University of Central Florida, to begin a summer research internship funded by the American Epilepsy Society. 

Jean, who received her undergraduate degree in health sciences, pre-med track, applied for the BRIDGE Summer Research Internship, an opportunity developed by the American Epilepsy Society to welcome promising student scientists into the epilepsy community and support their growth in the field. 

“It's incredibly meaningful to contribute to work that helps improve quality of life for patients and families affected by epilepsy,” Jean said of her internship. “I’m excited to learn from experts who are truly committed to compassionate, impactful care.” 

The American Epilepsy Society paired Jean with the University of Kansas Medical Center after Carol Ulloa, M.D., and Arian Ashourvan, Ph.D., (KU-Lawrence) applied for a grant from the organization. Together, Ashourvan and Ulloa will mentor Jean as she explores her interests and develops research she will present at the American Epilepsy Society’s annual meeting in December. 

This is the third consecutive year that Ulloa, a professor of neurology and director of the Comprehensive Epilepsy Center at The University of Kansas Health System, has applied for and received funding for this mentorship program. 

“It’s a great honor to expose talented students to the field of neuroscience so they may develop further interest and go on to pursue a clinical or research career that will help those with neurologic diseases such as epilepsy,” Ulloa said. “I hope to serve as a mentor to Naej now and in the future.” 

Jean began her internship on Monday, June 23. The internship will conclude on Friday, August 15.