Bradley Barrett

Academic Interests

Neuroscience & Chemistry

Fun Fact

I worked at a zoo from the age of 14

Currently, I am a neuroscience major at Duke University, deeply invested in understanding how biochemical pathways influence thoughts, actions, and natural bodily processes. My goal is to bridge the gap between microscopic cellular activities and broader human experiences, driven by the belief that even the smallest discoveries can profoundly impact the world.
   
This past summer, I worked as a Research Intern at the University of the West Indies Mona Institute of Applied Sciences, where I had the opportunity to contribute to a significant project aimed at protecting and enhancing the Jamaican Black Castor Oil (JBCO) industry. Over the course of two months, I conducted extensive measurements of the physical properties of castor seeds, primarily working in the Chemistry Lab under the guidance of the Institute's Project Development Officer. My responsibilities included testing the physical and chemical properties of a specific JBCO strain indigenous to Jamaica. The goal was to establish a quality guide that would be recognized both in Jamaica and globally, ensuring that the term "Jamaican Black Castor Oil" could not be used loosely by companies outside the country.
   
In addition to the hands-on lab work, I contributed to the development of standards aimed at securing geographic indication (GI) and certification marks to protect the JBCO name. This work is crucial for differentiating JBCO from its competitors and ensuring that local farmers, who currently gain only a small percentage of profits in a billion-dollar industry, can benefit more significantly from their products. I also supported efforts to develop a machine learning-based identification system for castor seeds using digital imaging, a component of the project that I expect to be further involved in later stages. This experience solidified my belief that small-scale efforts, like helping a single farmer improve their yield, can drive industry-wide change and have a lasting impact.
   
My journey in research began earlier, at The Lawrenceville School, where I volunteered at the Hope Botanical Zoo in Kingston. Initially intrigued by minor creatures like fruit flies, my curiosity evolved into a full-fledged passion during my time in Dr. Kim’s lab at Stanford University. There, I engaged in molecular genetic research, using fruit flies to explore oncology, epigenetics, and genetics, and learning how small organisms can drive major scientific advancements.

What do you like about being a SPIRE Fellow?

While there are many advantages of being a SPIRE fellow, what truly stands out from the rest is the unwavering support from the mentors and your fellow pairs. From my personal experience, everyone involved, from mentor to mentee always has a smile on their face whenever you talk to them, and have an undeniable will to help you, no matter how big the task is. I find this to be dear to me because at a big and competitive school like Duke, there are moments when you may feel imposter syndrome and fatigue. Nevertheless, with SPIRE behind my back, I always can find an avenue for help and just work out my own and other people's issues, as a team.