Physician-Scientist Speaker Series: Dr. Karl Deisseroth MD, PhD
by Avery Bogart (G1)
On March 17, 2022, the Vanderbilt MSTP had the pleasure of hearing from Dr. Karl Deisseroth for the Spring Physician-Scientist Speaker Series (PSSS) as part of his visit for the Discovery Lecture. Dr. Deisseroth is the DH Chen Professor of Bioengineering and of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Stanford University, as well as an Investigator of the Howard Hughes Medical Institute. He studies neural circuit dynamics and how pathophysiologic changes in these systems are involved in neuropsychiatric disease symptomatology and treatment. However, as we learned, one of Dr. Deisseroth’s greatest accomplishments has been publishing Projections, his work of literary nonfiction in which he relates the experiences of psychiatric patients to modern neuroscience. During the seminar, Dr. Deisseroth took us on his journey of writing this book as a way to provide insight into his life as a practicing physician-scientist. We were encouraged to learn that, while this career comes with its challenges and obstacles, there are many opportunities for growth and success, both personally and professionally. We are thankful that Dr. Deisseroth was able to find the time to share his knowledge with us and look forward to celebrating his future achievements.
 