Li-Yuan Chen Email & Phone Number

Lausanne, Vaud, Switzerland

I am investigating about the mechanisms of sleep.

Toronto, Ontario, Canada

I spearheaded an in vivo optical imaging project aimed at improving our understanding of the seizure initiation mechanisms.

Dr. Massimo Avoli'S Laboratory

I utilized in vitro models of epiletiform synchronization and in vivo models of epilepsy to study the cellular mechanisms underlying seizure generation. I independently executed experiments using tetrodes or glass pippettes to record neuronal and/or local field potential activities in in vitro models of ictogenesis; afterwards, I analyze my data by writing custom Matlab script. In addition, I perform in vivo experiments with colleagues to study epileptogenesis by manipulating neuronal activity with light. Despite the different conditions and techniques in these experiments, my results - which were published in peer-reviewed articles - had all emphasized the role of inhibitory mechanisms in seizure generation. Altogether, my PhD training allowed me to obtain and to hone in science inquiry and communication skills.

Dr. Sylvain Baillet'S Laboratory (Neurospeed: Dynamic Neuroimaging Laboratory)

In this experience, I explored different areas of neuroscience research by participating in 2 research projects.The goal of the first project - titled "OMEGA Database" - was to develop the first online database for Magnetoencephalography (MEG) imaging data. In the project, I assisted a post-doctoral fellow to develop database by executing UNIX and MySQL programming code. We also collaborated with professional program developers to troubleshoot and to tailor our database. During the project, I summarized our progress in a report to the grant agency that supported our work.Subsequently, I carried out my undergraduate honours thesis project "Heart Rate Fluctuations Induced by Visual Attention." In this project, I used Matlab and Brainstorm softwares to extract electrocardiogram (ECG) and behavioural data. I also performed statistical analysis, paired-sample t-test with false discovery rate correction, to test for significant effects in my dataset. My preliminary analyses revealed a significant difference between the the heart rates of fast and slow behavioural reaction time.

Laboratory In Neurobiology (Biol 389)

I executed 3 mini experiments in collaboration with a partner in 3 different model animals using 3 different laboratory techniques: 1) electropharngeogram recordings in C. elegans pharynx, 2) extracellular field recordings in rat hippocampus, and 3) intracellular recordings in leech Retzius cell. We designed the experimental questions then collected data with Axon pClamp software (Molecular Devices). At the end of the data collection, we performed statistical analysis using R and Microsoft Excel. Finally, we independently interpreted our results in our lab reports. Through the class, I learned to design and to execute research project as well as to interpret and to communicate my findings.

Dr. Nathalie Lamarche-Vane'S Laboratory

I gained insights into cell and molecular biological research by using the NTAP-Tag technique to extract the proteins binding to the PRD domain of cdGAP. In this project, I passaged, collected, and lysed NMuMG cells to obtain the total cell lysate to which I applied the NTAP-Tag procedures. Finally, I ran western blot to visualize the proteins isolated by the NTAP-Tag protocol. Through the project, I learned to execute scientific experiments independently and to consult the literature. Afterwards, I was convinced to pursue advance studies in science and further opportunities in cutting-edge research.

Doctor Of Philosophy (Phd), Integrated Program In Neuroscience (Ipn)

PhD Thesis Supervisor: Dr. Massimo Avoli

Bachelor Of Science (B.Sc.), Honours In Neuroscience

Honours Thesis Supervisor: Dr. Sylvain Baillet

Ib Diploma, Higher Levels In Chemistry, Physics, And Mathematics