Collegium Helveticum
Switzerland
fellow
Vernonica Akle
2023-2024
Home institution
University of Los Andes, CO
Country of origin (home institution)
Colombia
Discipline(s)
Neuroscience and cognitive science
Theme(s)
Health
Fellowship dates
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Biography
In her research, Veronica Akle focuses on using zebrafish as an animal model to study brain cancer progression and personalized treatments. During her stay at the lab of Stephan Neuhauss at the University of Zurich, Veronica explored new methodologies in zebrafish research.
Furthermore, Veronica is interested in studying the role of psychostimulants in physiology and behavior, especially as an alternative treatment of stress and trauma conditions. As a senior fellow at the Collegium, Veronica explored the possibilities and implications of using and researching the coca plant to gain insights into psychoactive substances and help navigate their stigma.
Research Project
Hidden Deep: Demystifying the Coca-Plant for Science and Beyond
The coca plant has a unique position as an ancient medicinal plant. Its healing properties have been passed down orally for generations among the indigenous cultures of the Andes. Regrettably, for the past five decades, it has also become inextricably linked to illegal drug trafficking. The misuse of one of its alkaloids, cocaine, has cast a shadow over the way this specimen is viewed when it comes to research and has hindered the study of its beneficial medicinal applications. This workshop wants to open up a discussion on the coca plant’s potentials, linking up with a growing interest in reevaluating the benefits of psychoactive substances through controlled scientific research and careful analysis. In this colloquium, participants from various disciplines will discuss the possibilities and implications of using and researching the coca plant to gain insights on psychoactive substances and help navigate their stigma.
Research Interests:
Psychology; psychoactive substances; psychiatry; medicine; cocaine