Javier Molina, Lab Manager
What is one project you’re excited about that you are working on in the lab right now?
Our STAR project has been beyond exciting to help in so far.
What brought you to work here?
During my undergraduate years I knew about this lab and the work they were accomplishing. As I began to work with adults and children who have experienced trauma and early life adversities in psychiatric settings, I was drawn to this lab even more.
What is something you have accomplished and are proud of outside of work?
I am proud that I followed my intuition and moved to Boston from Florida. Stepping out of my comforts to move 1,400 miles for a position at Boston Children's Hospital was a huge step for me. That said, I am proud that I took this step in my life.
What is something that you enjoy doing outside of work?
When I am not at work I love being out in nature. Mainly this is seen as a mix of hiking and camping through state parks.
What do you want to be when you “grow up”?
When I grow up I want to be a figure for my nephews to look up to. I hope this entails me being content with where I am in life and doing something I am passionate about.
If you could be anything (outside from your current field) what would it be?
I would be a National Park Ranger, the woods have a hold on me.
“The clearest way into the Universe is through a forest wilderness.” ~ John Muir
What has made you the proudest in your time in the lab?
What has made me the proudest so far within our lab is the fact that I am working within projects focusing on adolescences experiences with early life adversities and traumas. Coming from my previous work at a clinical setting, expanding my experience beyond direct clinical interactions for a community I care for is rewarding.
What is something that you are personally working on improving (about yourself, about the world, about your community etc)?
Personally I am working on shaping conceptualization of life and living. I feel that in pursuing a career in a science based field such as psychology, it is imperative to let go of preconceived notions. When completing my undergraduate degree I was certain I knew who I was and the therapeutic help I wanted to provide. But when working within an adult residential psychiatric facility as a tech, I realized there was much outside of my bandwidth. Since then I am actively trying to broaden my life experiences to be an effective clinician/researcher and more importantly a genuine person.
Do you have any hidden talents? If so, what?
Out of all talents, I am fairly decent at juggling. It's a fairly easy talent to learn and is a solid way to look cool to kids (and adults who are kids at heart).
Give us a snapshot of a moment of joy in your life.
Feeling weightless as I free dive into Blue Spring's underwater cave system. Many times I feel myself drifting towards this moment of bliss when I am experiencing joy.
What’s important to know about you?
Without the collective experiences of family, colleagues, and friends, I would not be the person I am today. While I know that applies to everyone, I am extremely appreciative of those who have and still continue to shape my life. I don't know where I would be without these people I care for the most.