by Jiwoo Noh
Introduction
This summer, I had the incredible opportunity to intern at the Computational Cardiology Lab with Dr. Trayanova, a pioneer in the field of electrophysiology research. As an intern, my role was to contribute to the development of a novel model for predicting the electrophysiology of unique hearts to improve prognostics and treatment planning for atrial fibrillation. This blog post reflects on my journey, experiences, and the growth I achieved through this practicum.
Key Experiences
During my internship, I worked on my project called “Predicting Electrical Wave Propagation On Personalized Left Atria Using Deep Learning.” This project involved developing and validating an electrophysiology prediction model. This task required gathering and analyzing data from a cohort of around 1000 heart samples, ensuring high-quality datasets for model training and validation. One of my significant achievements was achieving an absolute error of
less than 10% in preliminary model tests. A highlight of my summer was attending the 8th International Conference on Computational and Mathematical Biomedical Engineering (CMBE24) held in Arlington, Virginia, from June 24th to 26th. At the conference, I gave an oral presentation on my independent project. Initially, I was intimidated by the prospect of mingling with seasoned professionals. However, I was pleasantly surprised by the welcoming nature of the attendees, who were eager to offer advice regarding my research career. This experience not only boosted my confidence but also allowed me to connect with experts and fellow researchers, enriching my understanding of the field.
Skills and Knowledge Gained:
Throughout the practicum, I developed a range of technical and soft skills. Technically, I enhanced my expertise in data analysis, machine learning, and computational modeling. Attending professional meetings related to computational modeling and electrophysiology both in and outside the lab further solidified my technical foundation. I was also able to develop soft skills such as empathy, adaptability, and focus, which were crucial in navigating the dynamic
research environment. Engaging in regular team discussions improved my ability to understand and address team members’ perspectives and challenges, fostering a supportive and collaborative environment. Practicing flexibility in project management and establishing daily routines for core research activities enhanced my productivity and adaptability.
Impact of OKRs:
Setting and working towards OKRs (Objectives and Key Results) profoundly influenced my internship experience. My first OKR focused on enhancing personal strengths such as empathy, adaptability, activator, focus, and belief. For instance, taking the initiative to propose and lead a new research-related activity showcased my activator strength. The second OKR centered on gaining a deeper understanding of my research interests and preferred lab environment. Weekly self-assessment journals and informational interviews with researchers provided valuable insights into different research approaches and lab cultures. This exploration was instrumental in refining my PhD program aspirations. The third OKR aligned with the primary objectives of my lab. Demonstrating progresses on the development and validation of the electrophysiology prediction model was a significant milestone. The collaborative efforts and interdisciplinary integration ensured that the project’s impact was maximized, contributing to my professional growth and the organization’s goals.
Lessons Learned:
Professionally, I learned the value of collaboration and the impact of diverse perspectives on project outcomes. Regular team interactions and feedback loops were vital in refining our model and achieving our milestones. Personally, I gained insights into my strengths and areas for improvement. The self-assessment exercises highlighted the importance of empathy and adaptability in research settings. Additionally, the experience underscored the significance of continuous learning and staying updated with the latest advancements in the field. The CMBE24 conference experience was particularly impactful. It was my first time attending a conference, and it provided a platform to share my research with a global audience. I learned the importance of clear communication and received valuable feedback from seasoned professionals. For example, meeting Dr. Anita Layton and receiving her advice on presenting with confidence was a highlight, and the interactions with other researchers further fueled my passion for my work.
Future Applications:
I hope to utilize the skills and knowledge gained during this practicum in my future career and academic pursuits. The technical expertise in electrophysiology and computational modeling has prepared me for advanced research roles. The soft skills developed, such as effective communication, adaptability, and leadership, will be invaluable in any professional setting. This experience has also refined my career aspirations. I now have a clearer understanding of the type of research environment I thrive in and the specific areas of electrophysiology I am passionate about. As I prepare for PhD program applications, the insights and portfolio developed during this internship will be crucial.
Conclusion:
My summer internship at Computational Cardiology Lab was a transformative experience that enriched my professional and personal growth. Setting and working towards OKRs provided a structured approach to achieving my goals, fostering a holistic development process. The journey was filled with learning, challenges, and significant achievements, all of which have prepared me for future endeavors in the field of electrophysiology research. Attending the CMBE24 conference was an invaluable part of this journey. It offered me the chance to present my work, receive feedback, and connect with the scientific community. The experience reminded me of the joy and motivation I feel when sharing my academic curiosity with others. By sharing this experience, I hope to contribute to the co-creative process of mentorship and inspire peers considering similar internships. The lessons learned and skills gained are not just stepping stones in my career but also valuable contributions to the broader research community.
