How one lab connects generations through Parkinson's research
Lalitha Madhavan, associate professor of neurology, says training students to be clear and compassionate communicators turns laboratory research and discoveries into real-world impact.
From advancing Parkinson's disease research to inspiring the next generation of scientists, the Madhavan Lab — led by Lalitha Madhavan, associate professor of neurology — blends innovative science with outreach to retirement communities and schools, supported in part by a National Science Foundation grant. Working with Dr. Madhavan, students and postdocs help to bridge the gap between laboratory research and real-world impact, recognizing that true scientific training goes beyond technical skills, emphasizing compassion, clear communication and meaningful human connection.
Lalitha Madhavan
"This community outreach program is a great experience for students and postdoctoral researchers," Madhavan said. "It provides individuals with Parkinson's disease, along with their families and caregivers, access to information and resources that can improve quality of life, while also advancing understanding of the disease among senior communities. At the same time, it engages K–12 students in neuroscience and stem cell biology concepts."
That outreach spans generations — from young students encountering neuroscience for the first time to older adults living with Parkinson's disease.
Connecting youth with science
The Madhavan Lab advances this understanding early by bringing its outreach into local middle schools such as C.E. Rose K-8.
As an undergraduate, Jasmine Meredith – an aspiring physician-scientist enrolled in the molecular and cellular biology accelerated master's program – worked in the Madhavan Lab, using stem cells as research tools. But when she stepped foot into a community classroom, she used stem cells as teaching tools to hook young people on science.
"Dr. Madhavan teaches the middle schoolers very basic biological vocabulary, starting off with the question, what is a cell? Then she opens the floor to questions, and the undergrads host board games and other activities that allow the middle schoolers to learn through fun and games rather than just listening," Meredith said.
She said her time in middle school classrooms helped her stay focused on her professional goals.
"This outreach is extremely important for young kids, who are learning the importance of inquiry. You can see in the children's faces, they get super excited, really enjoy playing the games and ask good questions," she said. "It's inspiring to see these young kids so interested in research, and it reminds me why I wanted to become a researcher."
Listening, learning and advancing Parkinson's care
At the other end of the age spectrum, Madhavan leads a yearly program that involves a public talk and interactions with older adults.
"Given the focus of our research on aging and neurodegeneration, it is natural for us to engage with seniors," she said. "We share the excitement and importance of neuroscience and stem cell research with a mature and interested community. In turn, these interactions have further motivated and informed my own research."
Postdoctoral researcher Atsushi Ishii speaks with residents and families at SaddleBrooke One, a 55+ community north of Tucson.
Postdoctoral researchers Atsushi Ishii and Kelsey Bernard have contributed to both research and outreach through their involvement with the Madhavan Lab. During events at SaddleBrooke One, a 55+ community north of Tucson, they connected directly with patients and families, reminding them why their work in the lab matters.
"Outreach events like SaddleBrooke create a space where science meets real life," Ishii said. "Community members ask questions that challenge us to think more deeply about the impact of our work and how we explain it. Those questions help us reflect on how we communicate and why our work matters beyond the lab. I want people to know progress is happening, and it's happening right here in Tucson."
Bernard studies Parkinson's disease at the cellular level, but her impact goes beyond the lab. She says her conversations with SaddleBrooke residents, including Q&A sessions with local support groups, have significantly shaped her research perspective.
"These talks highlight symptoms like cognitive decline and chronic pain that often get overshadowed by motor issues. It reminds us that real people are at the heart of our work," Bernard said. "They help bridge the gap between researchers and the public. It's a way for people to see where their tax dollars are going and to demystify what happens behind the scenes in research."
Kelsey Bernard
That real-world connection fuels her commitment to patient-relevant research.
"You can read literature and know stats, but when you hear someone ask about what's being done to address their day-to-day struggles, it becomes personal."
With support from the NSF, the Madhavan Lab continues to advance aging and neurodegeneration research while fostering public understanding, one step at a time.
"Although the senior community is the most affected, few outreach programs actively involve them — despite their curiosity, eagerness to engage and desire to contribute," Madhavan said. "This offers a valuable opportunity to stay grounded in our work and to share our science with the very people it aims to support."
A version of this article was originally posted on the College of Medicine – Tucson website.