Ignacio Novoa Cornejo

As a physical therapist with six years of clinical practice experience and a personal history of vestibular disorders (VD), I developed a deep interest in answering questions related to plasticity in balance disorders. My own experience with Mondini Dysplasia, a bilateral congenital malformation that causes constant dizziness, drove me to dedicate my life to studying and rehabilitating vestibular patients. Rehabilitation science allows me to bridge the gap between basic science and translational research, enabling me to work across several research steps to address these questions effectively and improve the lives of those affected by VD.

UB stood out because of its unique offerings and commitment to fostering a collaborative and supportive environment. The opportunity to work in multiple laboratories and collaborate with diverse professionals is a testament to UB's dedication to providing a comprehensive learning experience. The support from various instructors and the ability to develop and apply different techniques and experiments within the university setting are invaluable. Additionally, I appreciate the weather in Buffalo, which aligns with my personal preferences. UB's strong focus on vestibular research in our department and in other departments for collaboration and its commitment to making this knowledge accessible to the general public through engaging content further solidified my decision to pursue my studies here.

My time at UB has been transformative, particularly in deepening my understanding of the vestibular system. The ability to conduct research at various levels, including in vitro, in vivo, and human studies, has broadened my perspective and enhanced my knowledge of the intricate sensorimotor system that allows us to maintain balance, stabilize our gaze, and move securely. The RS department has provided a unique platform for interdisciplinary learning, bringing together professionals from various health disciplines. This environment has allowed me to approach my research questions from a more comprehensive standpoint, as I receive valuable feedback from the staff in areas such as cognition and emotional well-being. This interdisciplinary approach has deepened my understanding of the close relationship between the vestibular system, the visual system, and proprioception in maintaining balance.

My favorite part of the program is the accessibility to professionals and the constant feedback and advice I receive. This supportive environment fosters growth and encourages collaboration, which is essential for advancing our understanding of VD and developing effective rehabilitation strategies. Moreover, specific to my research field, I appreciate the opportunity to work at different research levels within the same institution.