Aruna Nyssanbay

EDUCATION

College / University

Nazarbayev University, Astana

Highest Degree

Bachelor of Science

Major Subject

Biological Sciences

Country

Kazakhstan

Lab Experience

Electroencephalography, mammalian cell culturing, cell cytotoxicity assays, fluorescent microscopy, Drosophila brain dissection, PCR, electrophoresis, DNA/RNA extraction, bacterial cell culturing (on solid, semi-solid and liquid media), gravimetric analysis, bacterial cells enumeration, anti-viral drugs testing.

Projects / Research

2023: Human emotion recognition in conversations using electroencephalography (audio and video recordings).
2022 – 2023: Studying the effect of some Kazakhstani indigenous plant-based drugs in the treatment of human brain cancer (neuroglioma).
2021 – 2022: Visualisation of Drosophila neuroblasts under the confocal fluorescent microscope; studying the effect of Cathepsins proteases on the cells.
2021: Testing the effectiveness of plant-based drugs against different viral species (internship). Research Institute of Virology
2021: Participation in research experiments such as the selection of the most effective bacterial species for the improvement of Kazakhstani soil fertility or for the purification of the Caspian Sea from oil contamination (internship). Research Institute of Microbiology.

Scholarships / Awards

2023 – 2024:	Stipend by the International Max Planck Research School
2019 – 2023:	State scholarship from Nazarbayev University Grant, Astana, Kazakhstan

SCIENTIFIC INTERESTS AND GOALS

In the field of neuroscience, my passion lies in the study of human cognition, with a particular focus on emotions, sleep, mental disorders, and human interactions. I am also deeply intrigued by the role of genetic predisposition in shaping the diverse range of human personalities. I find myself fascinated by how behavior is governed at the molecular, cellular, and systemic levels. Understanding these mechanisms holds the promise of enriching our understanding of human nature and mental well-being. After obtaining my Master’s degree I am aiming to continue my research experience in a Ph.D. program and later work as a scientist studying behavioral and cognitive neuroscience.