Danae Penichet, a PhD candidate (Integrated Program in Neuroscience, McGill University) and trainee member of both the Transforming Autism Care Consortium (TACC) and the Canadian Neurodevelopmental Research Training Platform (CanNRT), was selected to represent Canada at the 6th Annual GIS Autisme et TND Conference and Young Researchers Mentoring Afternoon in Paris, France.
Through a partnership between TACC, CanNRT, and GIS Autisme et TND, this initiative supports early-career researchers in building international connections and bringing inclusive, cross-disciplinary perspectives to neurodevelopmental research.
PhD student and CanNRT trainee Danae Penichet shares her experience participating in the 6th Annual GIS Autisme et TND Conference and Young Researchers Mentoring Afternoon in Paris from October 8-9, 2025.
A space where research meets real life
“The event was a true testament to the fact that progress in the field of neurodevelopmental conditions does not, and should not, solely come from the laboratory,” says Danae.
She was particularly struck by a roundtable discussion that brought together parents, practitioners, organization leaders, and scientists.
“It was inspiring to hear their unique perspectives and how they collaborate to create change. Coming from a basic neuroscience background, learning about research co-designed with families and community organizations offered genuine food for thought about the status quo in animal model research.”
Learning through exchange
For Danae, the experience was “uniquely enriching in many ways.”
She connected with a diverse network of researchers and mentors who shared valuable advice about both science and career paths. Presenting her work in French to an international and multidisciplinary audience strengthened her ability to communicate research clearly and inclusively.
“The mentors were proactive and generous with their time, and hearing other researchers present helped me reflect on how to make science more accessible,” she explains. “I came back full of ideas, new friends, and motivation.”
Danae shares her research at the 6th Annual GIS Autisme et TND Conference. (Photo: Paul Olivier)
Representing an inclusive research community
Danae sees her role as a TACC and CanNRT trainee as a meaningful bridge between research and real-world impact.
“TACC and CanNRT provide access to top scientists, workshops, and professional development opportunities, but what makes them special is their engagement with families and organizations. Meeting people with lived experience reminds you why your work matters. It pushes you to think critically about how your research connects to healthcare and inclusion.”
Advice for other trainees
“Take a chance on yourself!” Danae encourages.
“When I first saw the call for applications, I almost didn’t apply because I thought my chances were slim. But I took a leap, and it turned out to be one of the most rewarding experiences of my PhD. If something makes you nervous, it’s probably a sign it will help you grow.”
Her message to fellow early-career researchers: stay curious, stay open, and seek opportunities that connect science with people.
To connect or collaborate with Danae, visit her LinkedIn profile.
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