Celeste Parra Bravo, a PhD candidate in Neuroscience at Weill Cornell Medicine in New York City, lives by the motto "time is non-refundable, spend it wisely." Her daily dedication revolves around advancing research on neurodegenerative diseases, contributing to the collective scientific knowledge. From the challenges she has faced at 17, when she started to work to pay her college fees, to her passion for brain research and much more: learn about Celeste and her journey, including her receipt of the Rita Levi Montalcini Scholarship in 2022, in our interview.

Why did you choose this PhD?

I chose to pursue a PhD in neuroscience due to my passion for this field, which ignited during my undergraduate studies, particularly through courses in neurobiology. I’m deeply fascinated by complex topics, in particular by the evolution from a healthy brain to a deteriorated one: it’s thrilling to have the opportunity to investigate such mysterious mechanisms throughout my studies! My research goal today is to contribute to translational research using human stem cell models and ultimately advance the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.

What are the three things you love the most about your degree so far?

The three most fulfilling aspects of my degree are:

• deepening my understanding of molecular and cellular neuroscience;

• networking and learning from world-class scientists;

• honing my science communication and teaching skills through training rotation students, presenting posters at national conferences, and writing first-author papers. These experiences are not only enriching my knowledge but are also preparing me for the next stages of my career.

What does the Dompé Foundation scholarship mean to you?

I am incredibly honored to have been chosen as a recipient of a Dompé Foundation scholarship. It’s truly a privilege to be acknowledged for my achievements thus far and to be supported by an organization with a strong mission of helping young scientists thrive.

What’s your motto?

My motto is "Time is non-refundable, spend it wisely." I try to live by these words, striving to make every day meaningful and to move forward without regrets.

What gets you up in the morning?

The belief in the impact of my work, coupled with the support from my friends and family, fuels my passion and perseverance in science, even on the hardest days.

What is the greatest challenge you’ve ever faced?

When I was 17, I moved abroad and began working in retail to pay rent and university application fees. Although it was a struggle to find my footing and finance my college education, I seized every academic opportunity I’ve had to its fullest extent and worked super hard to get to where I am now. I am extremely proud of my accomplishments, and I intend to keep every bit of momentum in the next stages of my career and life.

What kind of impact do you think you can make on the world?

Throughout history, the progress of scientific knowledge has been driven by the hard work of tremendously talented scientists. If I can contribute even just a single page to that collective book of knowledge by advancing the search for a cure for neurodegenerative diseases, I would feel extremely fulfilled.

How does it feel to have someone cheering for you?

The support from the Dompé Foundation is extremely motivating. Knowing that there is someone out there who believes in my potential and is rooting for my scientific journey fills me with gratitude and determination. This is only the beginning!

What is the last book you’ve read for fun?

I just finished reading Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus. It’s a wonderfully quirky story about finding ways to thrive, regardless of what life throws at you. Definitely a fun read!