Megan Thompson’s work as an undergraduate in Santa Clara’s sleep lab led her directly to a job as a neuropsychology research analyst.

Today, at SRI International, Thompson examines the effects of HIV, alcoholism, and aging on the brain. She interviews participants, administers MRI brain scans, and conducts neuropsychological tests.

Thompson describes her job as engaging and fascinating. “The array of interesting subjects varies from people who are HIV positive, HIV positive and alcoholic, just alcoholic, elderly, and normal. I spend about four or more hours per day with one subject; which allows me to familiarize myself with an individual’s personality,” she says.

At Santa Clara, she worked with Associate Professor Tracey Kahan in the sleep lab to learn how to administer EKGs and EEGs, and how to write research protocols. “The sleep lab is a place where hardworking undergraduates can develop their research skills and fulfill their passion for various avenues related to psychology,” she says.