Elsa Alvarado, BA
Clinical Research Assistant
The Ohio State University
Q: Please describe your current position and research interests.
A: As a Clinical Research Assistant, I assist in collecting data for analysis for various research projects for Dr. Darren Mays’ Lab. Some of my day-to-day responsibilities include overseeing and conducting visits, scheduling visits, fulfilling consent and debriefing requirements, determining eligibility, and assisting with the recruitment process. On other occasions, I will conduct retailer surveillance across Coumbus, OH to monitor tobacco/nicotine products available. My research interests stem from my background in psychology, I have a strong interest in understanding how social aspects influence people’s behavior to engage in risk health behaviors like smoking.
Q: What do you think is an emerging issue related to nicotine and tobacco?
A: I think an emerging issue is the growing appeal of certain vape products, particularly those designed with innovative features that attract youth and young adults. There are some devices that feature functionalities such as Bluetooth connectivity to connect to your smartphone to control music or answer calls. Other devices feature functionalities such as flavor control, where a single vape may have a combination of flavors where you can adjust the flavor ratio in each puff. Features like these make products more appealing to the youth and young adults who may perceive these types of products as novel by offering an interactive experience that traditional tobacco products don’t offer.
Q: What advice or tips would you offer to new nicotine and tobacco researchers?
A: I recommend that new nicotine and tobacco researchers familiarize themselves with well-known brands that have been in the market for years. Understanding these established products can offer valuable insights into newer brands and products that emerge and their ongoing development. Additionally, learning the tobacco industry's history and the policies that have influenced marketing and sales practices is helpful, as it helps researchers become aware of newer products and strategies the tobacco industry is using to navigate existing regulations.
Q: How did you first become interested in nicotine and tobacco research?
A: Throughout my four years of undergraduate studies, I had a strong interest in research focused on the understanding of the human mind and behavior. I was especially intrigued by how cognitive, emotional, and social factors influence an individual’s decisions, especially when it comes to assessing risks, benefits, and uncertainties. There are many types of risk behaviors that individuals engage in, it was difficult to choose a specific focus. However, I decided to focus on health-related risk behaviors, specifically smoking since it is a preventable issue that continues to affect many people.
Q: Describe one of your projects related to nicotine and tobacco research and why you are proud of the project.
A: One of our current projects focuses on gaining a better understanding of what adults know, think and feel about oral nicotine pouches (ONPs). We measure heart rate, eye tracking, and skin response while they view these products. This project has given me the chance to engage with a range of participants who provide me with a better understanding of their thoughts on this novel nicotine product as well as their views on other tobacco products. I am proud to have contributed to the successful planning and launch of this project which has given me the opportunity to submit my first, first-authored abstract to the Society of Research on Nicotine and Tobacco (SRNT), detailing our experiences in conducting these visits to guide future researchers interested in similar studies.
Q: What do you do in your spare time (what are your hobbies)?
A: In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with family and friends who know me as the type of person who typically asks, “Anyone up for a board game?” at social gatherings. I also love the challenge of participating in escape rooms with my friends, it provides a fun way to engage in puzzles and problem-solving. I also appreciate attending musicals and plays, as I am always excited to experience live artistic performances. Recently, I’ve picked up drawing again, though it can be a bit challenging when my cat insists on sitting on my iPad.