Exploring the Industrial Sector of Neuroscience Research at RTI International - with Oleh Dehtiarov

Hello! My name is Oleh Dehtiarov, and I am a senior neuroscience major with a minor in chemistry and PPE. Moving to UNC was challenging, to say the least — I had to build new relationships, discover new hobbies, and redefine myself. This transition profoundly shaped me, prompting me to reconsider a lot of steps that I thought were concrete before.

Although my parents encouraged me to pursue business, I knew from high school that it wasn’t the right path for me. I have always been passionate about science, but I quickly realized that science in college is far more dynamic than simple memorization learning I experienced in high school. To me, science is more than memorizing information — it is a form of self-expression, much like playing sports, painting, or writing. I find fulfillment in crafting figures, proposing hypotheses, and shaping theories about the human brain.

For centuries, scientists and philosophers avoided studying the brain, viewing it as a ‘black box’ — an organ that mysteriously processes information. However, as technology advanced, we gained the tools to finally unlock the mysterious mechanisms through which neurons function. I feel fortunate to be in the time, where neuroscience allows us to explore and decode the brain’s complexities. For me, neuroscience is not only a way to express my scientific curiosity but also a field that pushes the boundaries of human knowledge. I am grateful to the Gil Internship for enabling me to pursue my research interests and contribute to scientific advancements that help others.

Through the Gil Internship, I have the opportunity to work with Dr. Antony Abraham, a principal investigator at RTI International, who focuses on mitochondrial signaling dynamics in the context of cocaine use disorder. My research involves using immunohistochemistry and RNAscope techniques to investigate mitochondrial function, which is hypothesized to play a role in addiction and relapse. By understanding the pathways involved in mitochondrial dynamics and fission, we may identify compounds capable of preventing relapse or reducing cocaine cravings. This research is crucial, as psychostimulant overdose rates have been rising significantly, and understanding the neural mechanisms of addiction can lead to more effective treatments. During my time at RTI, I have gained valuable insights into mitochondrial function — an area I previously knew little about — as well as hands-on experience with research techniques that I hope to apply in my future research.

Beyond research, the Gil Internship has allowed me to explore the industrial sector of neuroscience, which was a major factor in my decision to work at RTI International. While RTI is a non-profit research institute, it operates similarly to an industrial research setting, providing me with exposure to this type of work environment. This experience is helping me determine whether I want to pursue a career in academia or industry. Although RTI is not a fully private industrial company, it has given me a strong sense of what working in industry might entail.

So far, my experience at RTI has been rewarding — I appreciate the collaboration and scientific freedom it offers. However, the longer I spend in this setting, the more I realize that independent research projects are more challenging to pursue in industry compared to academia. Since working on projects, I am passionate about is a driving force in my research, I am increasingly leaning toward an academic career after graduation. Furthermore, reflecting on my experiences, Gil Internship has allowed me to concrete my interest in academic by exposing me to industrial working setting.  

Lastly, this experience was truly invaluable, allowing me to refine my scientific thinking and gain firsthand exposure to the neuropharmacological drug discovery process for which RTI International is renowned. I learned that non-profit research institutes like RTI can be highly effective in bridging the entire drug discovery pipeline — from foundational scientific research to clinical trials — something that can be challenging to achieve in traditional academic settings. RTI’s interdisciplinary approach, with its many integrated sectors working in unison, plays a crucial role in advancing our understanding of neurological processes and beyond.

Through the Gil Internship, I have taken meaningful steps toward unraveling the complexities of the brain while also exploring potential novel therapeutic options for individuals suffering from cocaine use disorder and other substance use disorders. This opportunity has reinforced my passion for neuroscience and my commitment to contributing to impactful research that improves lives.

I am deeply grateful for the support of Dr. Buzinski, Emily Dolegowski, Dr. Antony Abraham, Dr. Graham Diering, and all the mentors who have guided me throughout my journey. I also appreciate the incredible individuals who have accompanied me along the way, making this experience even more meaningful.