We are so happy to announce that our colleague, Diana Pascal, has been recognized as Docent in Psychiatry at Karolinska Institutet! Her research focuses on Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), exploring its etiological and pathophysiological mechanisms as a foundation for improved treatment strategies, including Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS).
Reflecting on this achievement, Diana shared how the docent recognition opens new doors for conducting research projects, e.g., projects on exploring somatic aspects of psychiatric disorders, but it also opens new doors for engaging in higher-level teaching. Diana finds great satisfaction in combining clinical work, research, and education, emphasizing the importance of applying theoretical knowledge to real-world patient care.
Diana’s journey into research began unexpectedly—what she describes as “a slip on a banana peel.” Initially drawn to molecular biology and receptor pharmacology, she later developed a passion for structured psychiatric diagnostics and cognitive neuroscience. Over time, she became deeply invested in understanding the brain as a network and how different disciplines can come together to advance treatment for psychiatric disorders.
For Diana, the most rewarding aspect of her work is the opportunity to translate research into practice, bridging the gap between scientific discoveries and patient care. She also values working within the research group, as the collaborative environment fuels the detective-like nature of research, where every new discovery brings another piece of the puzzle closer to completion.
Congratulations Diana, on this well-deserved recognition!
Rücklab - Psychiatry research at Karolinska Institutet 