The School of Medicine Basic Sciences has seen remarkable and diverse trainees come through its doors, collaborate with and learn from distinguished faculty, then graduate from one of our nationally ranked departments. But where are they now?
They go on to become leaders at notable institutions, universities, governmental entities, and research and development companies, among others. Some of the places where our alums work include the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Pfizer Inc., the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and Oak Ridge National Laboratory to name but a few. And some even decide to stay at Vanderbilt!
Meet Anne Taylor, PhD’23, who graduated with a degree in neuroscience and is now a fellow at the Center for Opioid Research, Education & Outreach at the Auburn University Harrison College of Pharmacy. There, she is working to advance the center’s mission to combat Alabama’s opioid crisis.
We sat down with Taylor to discuss her experiences studying basic science and how it played a role in her successful career.
Graduate programs: Interdisciplinary Graduate Program, Neuroscience
Current role: COACH Fellow at the Auburn University Harrison College of Pharmacy
How did Vanderbilt help with your career path?
The annual ASPIRE Career Symposium was instrumental in shaping my career path by exposing me to diverse career opportunities in biomedical sciences. Hearing from professionals in academia, industry, and science communication helped me refine my interests and career goals. Additionally, Vanderbilt’s extensive network of well-connected alums afforded me invaluable mentorship and career advice, helping me navigate my next steps. These resources gave me the confidence and insight to pursue a path that aligns with my skills and passions.
How did the networking opportunities at Vanderbilt contribute to your professional connections and career advancement?
The networking opportunities provided by Vanderbilt and BRET were crucial in helping me build professional connections that have advanced my career. Through the BRET office, I was connected with alums in the education and outreach community. They were very generous with their time, meeting with me to discuss their careers, share insights, and offer advice on applying to both industry and academic roles. These connections not only provided valuable guidance but also helped me navigate career decisions and identify opportunities that aligned with my goals.
Were there any unexpected twists or turns in your career journey?
Yes, my career journey has had some unexpected twists, but my biomedical research training at Vanderbilt has equipped me with the skills to navigate these challenges. Initially, I focused on addiction research, but my career path evolved to include roles in education, outreach, and policy. The analytical skills I honed through research—such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and data interpretation—proved invaluable as I transitioned into a role that required a mix of scientific communication and community engagement.
Additionally, the interdisciplinary collaborations I was exposed to at Vanderbilt prepared me to adapt to new fields, enabling me to contribute meaningfully in both research and outreach settings. These experiences reinforced the importance of being flexible, resourceful, and confident in my ability to apply scientific expertise in diverse contexts.
Can you share a particular challenge you faced during your biomedical research training and how you overcame it?
COVID-19 interrupted my third year of research, shutting down my lab just as I was collecting critical data. Unable to conduct experiments, I focused on data analysis, literature reviews, and writing a predoctoral fellowship grant, which strengthened my scientific writing and proposal skills. Virtual meetings with my mentor and lab kept me engaged, and when in-person research resumed, I was better prepared with a stronger foundation. This experience taught me resilience, adaptability, and the value of using setbacks as opportunities for growth.
Were there any specific mentors or professors who played a crucial role in shaping your career aspirations?
Carrie Grueter was a major inspiration to me as a mentor and role model. She recognized that her strengths lay not only in research but also in mentorship and education, so she carved out her own unique path at Vanderbilt. In addition to being a full-time researcher, she lectured in a course for medical students, played a major role in organizing the anesthesiology summer research internship program, and balanced her career with motherhood. She showed me that it’s possible to do it all—as long as you are confident in your skills and advocate for what you want in your career.
In what ways did your involvement in additional projects or internships during your time at Vanderbilt contribute to your current success?
My participation in the Vanderbilt-Fisk Postdoctoral Fellowship was instrumental in shaping my career by providing valuable mentorship and teaching experience. Through this program, I had the opportunity to engage with both research and education, refining my ability to mentor students and communicate complex scientific concepts effectively. This experience reinforced my passion for combining research with teaching, ultimately influencing my career trajectory. It also expanded my professional network and prepared me for roles that integrate both scientific discovery and education.
What skills or knowledge gained during your time at Vanderbilt have been most valuable in your current role or industry?
The skills and knowledge I gained at Vanderbilt have significantly contributed to my current position where I work to bridge research with practical solutions for the opioid crisis in Alabama. As both a graduate student and postdoctoral fellow, I developed expertise in neurophysiological techniques and addiction research, which I now apply to my efforts in tackling substance use disorders through the Center for Opioid Research, Education, and Outreach, or COACH, at Auburn University.
My experience teaching middle and high school students through Vanderbilt’s programs for talented youth summer academy further enhanced my ability to communicate complex scientific concepts effectively to diverse audiences, a skill essential for community outreach. These experiences have shaped my ability to conduct impactful research, foster educational programs, and collaborate across disciplines.
How has the interdisciplinary nature of biomedical research training played a role in your ability to collaborate with professionals from different fields in your career?
Throughout my time at Vanderbilt, I worked alongside experts in neuroscience, pharmacology, addiction research, and medical education, gaining a broad understanding of different perspectives and methodologies. This experience taught me how to bridge the gap between research and practical application, which is crucial in my current role at COACH. Whether it’s working with healthcare professionals to address opioid use in their patient populations or collaborating with educators to create outreach programs in local middle and high schools, my ability to integrate knowledge from multiple disciplines allows me to communicate effectively, solve complex problems, and drive collaborative efforts to address public health challenges.
Can you share a pivotal moment or decision in your career that was influenced by your experiences at Vanderbilt or with BRET?
A pivotal moment in my career came during my participation in the ASPIRE Path in Molecular Medicine, which gave me the opportunity to interact with patients, clinicians, and researchers who all worked toward the shared goal of improving health outcomes. This exposure was eye-opening, as it highlighted the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in achieving meaningful progress in healthcare. It inspired me to seek a career that spans different fields, blending research and education to address complex health challenges like substance use disorders and opioid misuse. This realization has guided many of my career decisions, and the skills I gained at Vanderbilt have allowed me to pursue a path that integrates scientific research with direct community impact.
What advice would you give to a student studying basic sciences?
I would encourage current biomedical science students to apply for fellowships and internship opportunities early, even if they feel unqualified—every application is a learning experience. Seeking funding not only strengthens research skills but also opens doors to new collaborations and career paths. Additionally, talking to people in different fields provides valuable perspectives and can reveal unexpected opportunities. Building a broad network and staying open to diverse career paths can make a significant difference in shaping their future.