Joanne Gourgouvelis
My name is Joanne Gourgouvelis and I am a second year Masters of Health Science candidate. I completed my Bachelor of Science in Psychology at Trent University.
I am interested in how exercise can influence brain health. Using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) I will investigate whether a 12 week exercise program can promote changes in hippocampal function in depressed individuals. I will also investigate whether hippocampal function is associated with improvements in depression, memory and biochemical markers such as cortisol, cytokines and growth factors known to be altered in Major Depressive Disorder (MDD).
What motivated you to do a Masters at UOIT?
The opportunity to be mentored by faculty members Dr. Murphy and Dr. Yielder was the deciding factor for me to pursue my Masters in Health Science at UOIT. With their collaborating expertise and leadership, I am learning how to conduct high quality research within the fields of kinesiology and mental health.
What have you enjoyed the most so far?
My graduate experience thus far has exceeded my expectations. I have been very privileged to be given such unique opportunities to work with collaborating institutions during my first year and I am very eager to begin the data collection process.
I am interested in how exercise can influence brain health. Using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) I will investigate whether a 12 week exercise program can promote changes in hippocampal function in depressed individuals. I will also investigate whether hippocampal function is associated with improvements in depression, memory and biochemical markers such as cortisol, cytokines and growth factors known to be altered in Major Depressive Disorder (MDD).
What motivated you to do a Masters at UOIT?
The opportunity to be mentored by faculty members Dr. Murphy and Dr. Yielder was the deciding factor for me to pursue my Masters in Health Science at UOIT. With their collaborating expertise and leadership, I am learning how to conduct high quality research within the fields of kinesiology and mental health.
What have you enjoyed the most so far?
My graduate experience thus far has exceeded my expectations. I have been very privileged to be given such unique opportunities to work with collaborating institutions during my first year and I am very eager to begin the data collection process.