Women in Medicine: Nandini Datta, PhD

Why did you pursue a career in medicine?

I pursued a career in psychology to better understand a field that seemed shunned or stigmatized from the perspective of my ethnic background. I was curious and intrigued to learn more and as I did -- I was hooked! I thoroughly enjoy the translational and complementary nature of clinical psychology -- using research to inform clinical care and service while using rich clinical experiences to inform research questions.

What is your work focused on?

I am currently funded by an MCHRI fellowship to investigate differences in interoceptive capabilities in teens diagnosed with Anorexia, Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID), and Healthy Controls. These data stand to help us better understand mechanisms underpinning restrictive eating behavior in ARFID, a relatively new diagnosis in the DSM-5.

What is the most fulfilling part of your work?

Collaborating with and learning from my colleagues, meeting with research patients and hearing their curiosity around my research questions, and when I was doing more clinical work, being able to see objective improvements in patient symptoms.

What advice would you give yourself when you started in the field, knowing what you know now?

To be patient with myself and the journey through clinical psychology (still reminding myself of that today -- as I'm still a post-doctoral fellow). Also, celebrate the little things (submitting a manuscript for publication, having a good clinical day, etc). The little things add up!