The School of Medicine Basic Sciences consists of a remarkable community that is dedicated to advancing the study of human biology, health, and disease. In addition to the award-winning faculty, postdocs, and students who are at the forefront of our cutting-edge research, a large part of our school’s success can be attributed to our staff.
Join us in recognizing and appreciating our staff members and the hard work they do to ensure exceptional exploration into basic biomedical science that takes place at our school.
We sat down with Elana Milano, program manager of research for the Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, the Vanderbilt Center for Addiction Research, the Vanderbilt AUD Research & Education Center, and the Center for Applied AI in Protein Dynamics, who told us a little about herself.
How long have you been working for Vanderbilt?
I started in a lab at Vanderbilt in the Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics in 2008, but I have been in my current position for a year and a half. Currently, I support faculty and staff in the molecular physiology biophysics department, VCAR, and the CAIPD. My responsibilities are to oversee departmental and center operations, which includes renovations, laboratory equipment maintenance and troubleshooting, department purchasing, administrative support, laboratory safety, and reporting.
What is unique about working for the School of Medicine Basic Sciences?
The Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, VCAR, CAIPD, and the School of Medicine Basic Sciences more broadly have a wonderful group of faculty and staff who can all work together in a collaborative environment. They are honest and caring people, too. The research and science that goes on here makes my mind grow and I look forward to learning from everyone I work with.
What is something you are looking forward to?
One thing I am looking forward to here at Vanderbilt is seeing how the two centers I work for, VCAR and CAIPD, continue to grow. I like to see the impact they are having on younger populations, like high schoolers, through education and outreach.
What is your favorite memory or project you have completed during your time at the School of Medicine Basic Sciences so far?
My favorite memory of a project I completed was probably my first VCAR Science Day. I had never organized an event of that size before, so I was nervous and unsure how I was going to pull it off. From organizing speaker presentations to poster sessions and more, with events happening in two separate venues, I didn’t think it was going to come together as well as it did. We had amazing scientific talks and a fun atmosphere at the Belcourt Theater, then wrapped up the day in the Langford Auditorium lobby with and engaging poster session and awesome food. It was truly a joy to see it all come together!
Who has had a positive impact on your work?
Ashley Haddard, senior program manager for research for the Department of Pharmacology, has been there to help me while I transitioned to my new position and has helped me grow and realize my potential. She is a wonderful colleague and a great example of a leader.
What is a fun fact about you?
I have two! First, I grew up with singer Gavin Degraw, who was our weekly karaoke star during the summers throughout high school. In addition, I interviewed Jonas Salk, inventor of the polio vaccine, for a report for my eight grade English class. It was an amazing experience talking to such a renowned scientist.
What activities to do you like to do outside of work?
I enjoy reading and watching my kids play sports and all other activities they do. I love art, including drawing and painting. I love to just relax and spend time with my family.
What is your favorite quote?
“The mark of the immature man is that he wants to die nobly for a cause, while the mark of the mature man is that he wants to live humbly for one.” – J. D. Salinger, “Catcher in the Rye”