Congratulations of Dr. Varoudaki (PhD Done)!! We are so proud of you and your efforts over the pass 6 years as a student! You did it!

Dr Varoudaki after defending her thesis!

Dr Varoudaki with lab SQUAD

Here is Dr. Varoudaki’s response about her experience, her advice for prospective students, and her next steps.

What was the focus of your doctoral research, and why does it matter?
My doctoral research focused on how pain perception changes in natural and urban environments and the neurobiological mechanisms involved. Understanding how our surroundings influence pain could help inform the design of spaces as well as medical interventions that promote health and well-being.

What was the biggest challenge you faced during your dissertation, and how did you overcome it?
One of the biggest challenges I faced during my dissertation was integrating all the different pieces of equipment (VR headset, fNIRS, Biopac, thermode, and task computer) while learning a new neuroimaging technique and creating my own stimulus set. I overcame it with the unwavering support of mentors and colleagues who patiently took the time to answer all of my questions and troubleshoot alongside me.

What is your favorite memory or proudest achievement from your time in our lab?
One of my favorite memories from my time in the lab was our late talks while working in the lab. We genuinely enjoyed each other's company, worked side by side late into the evening, and supported one another.

What are your next career steps, and how did your time in this lab prepare you for them?
My next career steps involve deeper immersion in the field of neuroaesthetics, first as a postdoctoral researcher at the Penn Center for Neuroaesthetics and, hopefully, later in industry. The skills and experience I gained in the lab, as well as the specific project I worked on, have been invaluable. I wouldn't have been able to pursue a career in neuroaesthetics without them.

What piece of advice would you give to someone just starting their doctoral journey?
I would tell them to take it one day at a time. It can feel daunting when you look at the journey as a whole, but little by little things get done. I would also encourage them to prioritize work-life balance and enjoy the journey as much as they can. They shouldn't put their lives on pause for the degree—the degree itself is part of their story, and they should make sure to enjoy that story too