Sleepy Hollow High School Student Builds a Foundation for a Future in Research

For many high school students, gaining access to a research laboratory can be challenging. For Doupis, a senior at Sleepy Hollow High School in his school's science research program, securing a mentor was crucial to remaining in the program and continuing his interest in scientific research.

“I really wanted to experience working in a lab so I could start college with prior research experience,” he said. “I think you learn so much by being in a lab."

That search led him to Dr. Rota, whom Doupis describes as the perfect mentor. The connection extended beyond science. Both share an interest in cardiovascular research and speak fluently in French and Italian, making the mentorship feel especially meaningful.

“My teachers, who met Dr. Rota on our first Zoom call, were like, ‘This is the perfect position for you. I don't even know how it exists. You are the luckiest person ever,’” recalled Doupis.

Doupis' interest in research began several years earlier when he started reading about cardiac organoids, stem cell-derived tissues that mimic the structure and function of the heart. Learning how researchers use these "mini hearts" to study heart disease sparked a fascination with cardiovascular science and helped shape his career goals.

With aspirations of becoming a cardiothoracic surgeon, Doupis views research as an important foundation for a future career in medicine. Before joining Dr. Rota's lab, he spent months reading the lab's published research and studying topics, including metabolic syndrome to better understand the work being conducted.

“I learned so much more in the lab the first few weeks than I have in the months I've spent reading his articles and other articles on the topic,” said Doupis. “The research process was impressive. I learned a lot.”

During the summer, Doupis assisted Dr. Rota in his lab on his research focused on studying the effects of metabolic syndrome on heart rhythm dynamics. Through the experience, Doupis developed a deeper understanding of both the scientific process and the realities of conducting research.

“We were in good hands,” said Dr. Rota. “Students like Spiros remind us of the extraordinary potential of the next generation to lead, discover, and inspire.”

Doupis gained hands-on experience and developed a range of technical skills. He learned laboratory safety procedures and research organization practices, analyzed electrocardiogram files to identify abnormal heart rhythms known as ectopic beats, observed surgical procedures, and assisted with echocardiography research using an ultrasound machine.

He credits Dr. Rota not only for teaching scientific skills, but also for sharing valuable lessons about professionalism and future career development.

“He's teaching me not just skills for the lab, but also for my future, which I'm very appreciative of,” said Doupis.

The experience has also reinforced his desire to continue pursuing research opportunities in college and later, as a physician. But before that, Doupis plans to remain involved in Dr. Rota’s through next year’s Regeneron Westchester Science and Engineering Fair in March, which showcases hands-on research conducted by high school students in Westchester and Putnam counties and supporting top finalists as they advance to the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair.

Grateful for the experience, Doupis also developed a deep appreciation for the collaborative nature of research, specifically at New York Medical College, and the global community the labs are connected to.

“The most surprising thing was how kind everyone is and how interconnected the different labs are,” he said. “I was also surprised by how international a lab can be, especially with Dr. Rota’s collaborations. When I came to the symposium, there were people from all over the world, including researchers from places like Morocco and Korea. Dr. Rota also works with collaborators in Italy, France, and Baltimore. It’s really cool to see how connected everyone is. I think the biggest surprise was realizing there’s such a large community behind the research.”