#TeamCANDY
Introducing Iris Riemersma
Iris Riemersma, PhD
WP1 – Animal studies: pathogenic processes and critical time windows
University of Groningen (RUG)
Can you explain your research and role in CANDY in 2 sentences?
As part of the preclinical research team in CANDY I try to better understand the biological mechanisms that underlie Autism Spectrum Disorders. More specifically, I focus on studying the developmental trajectories of sensory processing.
What do your friends and family think what you are doing in the lab?
Being busy in the lab, writing behind my desk, creating graphs and presenting data.
What are you really doing most of your work time?
Planning experiments and analyzing data.
What’s your favourite and / or least favourite task in the lab?
I enjoy the variety of activities as a researcher. A single day might consist of running analysis scripts behind my desk, interacting with fellow researchers and pipetting in the lab. Less enjoyable but also part of the job is doing the dishes in the lab.
Why you have chosen to work in the field of neurodevelopmental conditions?
I believe there is still much unknown and therefore much to gain in the field of neurodevelopmental conditions. Therefore, I would like to contribute to the progress in this field through my research.
Why does your research matter to the average citizen/man on the street?
The ultimate goal of my research is to improve our understanding of sensory symptoms. Hopefully, this can contribute to the improvement of the quality of life for those who are affected by these symptoms.
What is your personal highlight in CANDY up to now?
The general assembly meeting, where you see the great progress of the research from all the researchers within CANDY.
Which publication or researcher influenced you most?
The work by Lauren Orefice, who studies the development, function and dysfunction of the somatosensory system.
Coffee or Tea? Tea
Mac or PC? PC
Cats or dogs? Cats
Mountain or sea? Fjords
What’s your favourite thing to do outside the lab?
Hikes in nature or enjoying live music.
How does your perfect day-off looks like?
Go out to explore nature or cooking an elaborate Ottolenghi recipe with friends.
Best recent series or movie or novel?
Both, the Barbie movie and Oppenheimer.
As part of the “Horizon 2020” programme, the European Commission is funding the five-year CANDY research project with a total of six million Euro under grant agreement No. 847818.