Leena Chaudhari

Leena R Chaudhari is a PhD student and Junior Research Fellow at D.Y. Patil Education Society in Kolhapur. Her research focuses on developing tissue-engineered spinal cords, unlocking potential to heal damaged neural connections and restore function in people with SCI.

Leena shares her experiences from the conference.

The 2024 International Spinal Cord Society Conference in Antwerp, Belgium was a rewarding experience made possible through the generous support of the Spinal Research Institute (SRI) Collaboration Grant. It was an invaluable experience that significantly enriched my research perspective and professional growth. It also provided a unique opportunity to connect with a diverse community of researchers, clinicians, and stakeholders from around the world. Informal networking sessions were invaluable in fostering connections and potential collaborations, enriching my journey as an early-career researcher. Engaging with other SRI delegates and members of the SRI team made the experience even more memorable and supportive.

Although I couldn’t present my original work, participating in the SCI Day poster competition was a privilege. Winning 2nd prize for my poster, “Spinal Cord Injuries and Violence: A Call for Global Action and Policy Change,” was an unexpected highlight and led to impactful discussions that have influenced my current research. Additionally, learning about global advancements in SCI research has been inspiring and will significantly contribute to my ongoing work on spinal cord graft development.

I am deeply thankful for this opportunity provided by the Spinal Research Institute, my guide Dr. Meghnad Joshi, and D.Y. Patil University, Kolhapur, India. Attending ISCoS 2024 has been a pivotal experience, and I look forward to presenting my research at ISCoS 2025 to explore new possibilities for collaboration and innovation.