Our physician scientist graduates from the Neuroscience program go on to careers in academia, industry and government. You can find these acomplished TBES alumni in private practice, on the faculty of prestigious universities, consulting for leading biomedical companies, and working for government agencies.

Eleni Papadopolous
Rowan-Virtua TBES, 2025 (PhD)
Rowan-Virtua SOM, Class of 2027

My early work as an EMT introduced me to neurotrauma and sparked my interest in research focused on improving patient care. The Rowan-Virtua DO/PhD program has played a key role in helping me turn that interest into practical skills that support my medical education. With strong mentorship and dedicated time for research, I gained hands‑on experience in designing studies, analyzing data, writing scientifically, and thinking critically. These skills now help me better understand medical research, connect disease processes to patient care, and ask thoughtful questions during my medical training.

The program also offered valuable career development opportunities, such as participation in the Summer Medical Research Fellowship and research presentations at conferences, which strengthened my communication and teamwork skills – attributes that are absolutely vital in the medical field. In addition, leadership opportunities, such as founding an APSA local chapter, allowed me to guide and advocate for other medical students interested in research. The supportive environment has prepared me to thoughtfully combine research and clinical training as I complete medical school and prepare to care for future patients.

Rhahil Kheirkhah
Rowan-Virtua TBES, 2020 (PhD)
Rowan-Virtua SOM, 2022 (DO)

Below is an exerpt from a Rowan Today story

“It was probably the best decision I’ve made in my seven years at Rowan,” she said. “Working with [Dr. Robert Nagele's lab] gave me a chance to not only grow professionally, but also grow personally.

In Nagele’s program, she learned to perform and analyze research and refine her abilities to take a critical approach to problem-solving. She also assumed leadership roles on projects. “It taught me to feel comfortable about questioning the material that I’m taught, looking for answers and where the answers are coming from, and approaching situations in a very scientific way.”

Nagele’s guidance was invaluable, according to Kheirkhah. “He taught me not to shrink away from a challenge and, more importantly, to become comfortable making big decisions and standing behind them,” she said. “He was an incredible mentor to have, and I feel very grateful to have been able to work with him.”