In neuroscience research, very small details can make a big difference in the results and in the way they are interpreted. If research conditions aren’t carefully optimized, studies can produce inconsistent or unreliable findings, and can stall research in specific fields for months, sometimes even years. By fine-tuning their research parameters, scientists can get clearer, more accurate insights into how the brain really works. In this grad student interview episode, we discuss why optimizing basic research parameters is important to understand the pathological mechanisms of stroke. Sophie Wolkoff is a recent graduate from the Centre for Neuroscience Studies at Queen's University , where she completed her master's degree. As a master's student, she studied under the supervision of Dr. David Andrew. Their research focused on "spreading depolarizations", which are a cellular phenomenon that occurs in the brain following strokes and other traumatic brain injuries. For her thesis in particular, Sophie conducted research on how temperature affects spreading depolarization, as well as how both of these factors can influence the preparation of rodent brain slices. Aside from her passion for neuroscience, she loves traveling, rock-climbing, and spending time with family and friends. Authors: Eve Racette, Golnar Taheri Email: thinktwicepodcast@outlook.com Instagram: @thinktwice_podcast LinkedIN: Think Twice Podcast Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/ThinkTwicePodcast Disclaimer: Think Twice is a podcast for general information and entertainment purposes only. The content discussed in the episodes does not reflect the views of the podcast committee members or any institution they are affiliated with. The use of the information presented in this podcast is at the user’s own risk and is not intended to replace professional healthcare services.