Aleah Eschman, B.S.
Tell us about your role at NIAID and what a typical day at work looks like for you?
I am a clinical postbaccalaureate intramural research and training award (IRTA) fellow working with the Lyme Disease Studies Unit. A typical day can vary significantly because everyone in our team wears multiple hats, and we all collaborate to support each other out when necessary. My responsibilities encompass triaging patient inquiries for our three active protocols, managing and processing samples, assisting with tick placement and removal procedures, conducting the implementation of new clinical assessment tools, and various other tasks. I collaborate with my team both within and outside of the clinic to accomplish these duties.
What is your favorite part of your job? What excites you most about coming to work?
I have a deep affection for our patients and greatly enjoy observing clinic visits. Our team is fortunate to work with wonderful participants who are always delighted to see us during their visits and contribute to advancing research. This is particularly evident in our healthy volunteer study, where we spend ample time together, fostering close bonds. Additionally, collaborating with exceptional providers has been instrumental in my growth at the NIH. Observing how they conduct their history and physicals has provided invaluable learning experiences. Sitting in during these sessions, I have gained immense knowledge, and they have served as role models for the kind of provider I aspire to become.
Are there any special or unique projects that you are working on?
I recently initiated a project involving the implementation of a new tool known as the laser speckle contrast imager. This technique is a non-invasive, non-contact, optical imaging technique for measuring microvascular blood flow. The imager exploits random speckle pattern that generates when the tissue is illuminated by laser light and changes when blood cells move in the sampled tissue. We employ this tool as an objective measurement of site reaction at the tick bite sites following the completion of a placement procedure by volunteers participating in NIH Protocol #000331-I, comparing the changes in blood flow at these sites.
Tell us about your career journey
I completed my undergraduate studies at the University of Maryland, College Park, earning dual B.S. degrees in biology and psychology. Following the completion of my undergraduate degree, I knew I wanted to go to medical school to become a physician, but first, I sought to gain more research experience before applying. Fortunately, I received an offer through the IRTA program to work with the Lyme disease studies unit. I will be completing this two-year program in July and intend to start medical school in the fall of 2025. During my final gap year, I will be working as an emergency room technician.
How has NIAID helped your professional growth, development, and career goals?
NIAID has greatly aided me on my path toward becoming a physician. Overall, I have gained a deeper understanding of formulating research inquiries and utilizing available resources to address them. In the clinic, I have come to appreciate the meticulous nature of the process and the significance of every minute detail. Personally, I have developed my skills in patient interaction and interviewing. Additionally, I have had numerous opportunities to hone my presentation skill at various conferences during my two years here. Beyond my team, I have attended other events and presentations that contribute to my ongoing learning of medicine.
What stands out to you about the workplace culture at NIAID?
NIAID is extremely collaborative, and investigators and teams are consistently working together to brainstorm and assist each other in producing the best research possible.
What are some benefits at NIAID that you enjoy?
There are numerous events offering additional learning opportunities, which I have thoroughly enjoyed benefiting from. Additionally, there are various groups and clubs available to facilitate meeting new people and networking.
Do you have any advice to offer others who might be considering working at NIAID?
I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here at NIAID and look forward to maintaining my connections as I continue working towards becoming a physician.
Is there any other interesting information you would like to highlight?
I love to run, crochet, read, and run! In my free time, I am always trying to engage in all my little hobbies simultaneously. Additionally, I volunteer at my local fire department as an EMT, and I have greatly enjoyed my journey towards becoming a solo provider for my station.