Elena Bagatelas

PhD Candidate

My research journey began at the University of Tennessee (Pi Chapter), leading to work at the NIH studying autism-related mutations. That experience sparked my pursuit of a Ph.D. in neuroscience at Vanderbilt University, where my research explores synaptic transmission in health and disease. I’ve been honored with research awards, delivered invited talks, and presented my work at international conferences. Over the past year, I’ve interned with the CSNK2A1 Foundation, collaborating on research into a rare syndrome. One of the most rewarding aspects has been receiving awards for sharing my research, especially as I enjoy translating complex findings for diverse audiences.

Pi | Tennessee

What motto or phrase motivates you?

“Don’t judge each day by the harvest you reap but by the seeds that you plant.” -Robert Louis Stevenson
This phrase brings to mind that the fruit of one’s legacy is the thoughts and actions that inspire future generations.

What three words would you use to describe yourself?

Intentional, Dedicated, Loyal

What advice would you give to someone entering your field?

To remind yourself daily that it took a village to get you there, so give back to that village with your time and mentoring whenever you can. People outside the scientific community can lose trust in why research is important to their everyday lives, so lean into community engagement by volunteering your knowledge and curiosity so that others can become curious again, too.