Simon Korotzer-Mariani ’26 Builds a Future in Neuroscience

Simon Korotzer-Mariani ’26 has engaged deeply with Oberlin’s Center for Engaged Liberal Arts (CELA), using its resources to connect his academic interests in neuroscience and medicine with hands-on research, internships, and fellowship opportunities.

A neuroscience major, Korotzer-Mariani began his CELA-supported experiences during his first Winter Term, remaining on campus to work in a multisensory integration lab with Professor Leslie Kwakye. There, he gained early exposure to academic research while learning techniques such as electroencephalography (EEG), Matrix Laboratory (MATLAB), and PsychoPy, as well as engaging with scientific literature and collaborating with fellow researchers. He also developed an appreciation for Oberlin’s quieter winter months and chose to spend each subsequent Winter Term on campus.

Building on that experience, Korotzer-Mariani completed a Winter Term internship at the Sustainability, Health, and Equity (SHE) Center at the Medical College of Wisconsin. His work included conducting a literature review on waste auditing and life cycle assessments in operating rooms, as well as shadowing a gastroenterological surgeon at Froedtert Hospital. The experience broadened his perspective on the role of sustainability in health care and deepened his interest in integrating environmental considerations into medical practice.

Outside the classroom, he connected with the broader Cleveland community by participating in an indoor ultimate frisbee league, expanding his engagement beyond campus and building new relationships.

During the summer, Korotzer-Mariani continued his research through the Oberlin Summer Research Institute (OSRI) in a behavioral pharmacology lab with Professor Tracie Paine. There, he gained extensive hands-on experience with animal models, including performing surgeries and drug testing. He also developed greater independence by living and working on campus over the summer, balancing research with personal growth and extracurricular involvement.

In addition to his research, Korotzer-Mariani pursued fellowship opportunities through CELA, attending information sessions and working closely with the Fellowships and Awards Office, particularly Director Danielle Abdon. Through this process, he connected with Professor Jens Holm Mikkelsen at the University of Copenhagen and applied for a Fulbright U.S. Student Program grant to support research in behavioral epilepsy. He was named a Fulbright semifinalist for Denmark in January and is awaiting final results.

Through these experiences, Korotzer-Mariani has used CELA as a platform to explore his academic interests, build technical and research skills, and take meaningful steps toward his future goals in neuroscience and medicine.

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