Education is one of the four pillars of UNMC’s mission, and our students are the lifeblood of that aspect of campus life.
In UNMC Today’s Student Spotlight, we get to know some of these students, who will become tomorrow’s health care professionals.
Today we meet:
- Name: Bryan Keith Becker
- Hometown: Bridgewater, S.D.
- Program/Year: Graduate Studies, Cellular and Integrative Physiology / Fifth year.
List three songs on your playlist.
- “Everlong,” Foo Fighters
- “The Last Temptation of Adam,” Josh Ritter
- “Suite for Cello No. 1,” Bach
What sparked your interest in physiology?
I was involved in teaching physiology as an undergraduate teaching assistant and was always fascinated by the scope and application of physiological research. Specifically, neuronal physiology and ion channels sparked my interest in pursuing a research career in physiology using techniques such as direct nerve recordings and patch clamping. Currently, I’m investigating how certain neurotransmitters and ion channels change in the brain stem during heart failure in the laboratory of Irving Zucker, Ph.D. It’s very exciting to be able to use my technical strengths to study such a prevalent disease that affects many individuals and families, my own included, and to have the opportunity to train under such a well-respected and established scientist. I’m also very passionate about physiological education at all levels and greatly enjoy being able to share what I’ve learned with those around me.
Your favorite study snack is:
Bananas
Your favorite app is:
DoggCatcher Podcast Player
Three things people may not know about you:
- I like to acquire and learn to play various stringed instruments.
- I’m a bit of a comic book nerd.
- I like to do my own home remodeling projects, such as finishing my basement and refinishing my own hardwood floors.