Ralph Kistler Research Internship

Ralph Kistler was a longtime friend of the Hydrocephalus Association. The Ralph Kistler Research Internship commemorates Ralph's spirit and the impact he had on the hydrocephalus community.

• Undergraduate currently enrolled in a college or university
• Remote Interns: must have a computer and reliable internet service
• Scientific writing and publication experience are preferred

2025: Mary Grace Roe, University of Alabama at Birmingham

Quote: "What made my experience as a Ralph Kistler intern so meaningful was how involved I felt from the beginning. I worked on registry and database revisions, contributed to exploratory analyses, and was invited into conversations that shaped ongoing projects. These opportunities helped me grow and feel connected to work that directly supports individuals and families affected by hydrocephalus. I am thankful for the guidance I received, and for being part of an organization that is committed to the people they serve.”

Mary Grace contributed to a wide range of projects throughout her internship. Most notably, she played a key role in expanding and enhancing the HAPPIER patient database.

2023: Melissa Sloan, BS, American University

Quote: "Being a Ralph Kistler Research Intern with the Hydrocephalus Association was truly incredible. From day one, I was immersed into all of the proceedings of the company and got the opportunity to be an author on two soon-to-be-published papers that report on data from individuals with hydrocephalus. Working with HA inspired me because I could tell how much of a profound commitment each and every staff member had to better the lives of those with hydrocephalus.”

Throughout her time with HA, Melissa analyzed data from the HAPPIER patient registry. Her work has contributed to the publication of the HAPPIER baseline report.

2022: Kevin Miller, BS, Florida State University

Quote: "My time with the Hydrocephalus Association was so memorable and inspiring that I am currently pursuing a Fulbright Scholarship to conduct hydrocephalus research on access to healthcare in Canada. This opportunity would not have been possible without the connections I made through this internship. I am extremely grateful for the Hydrocephalus Association and hope to work again with this fantastic organization.”

Through his work evaluating HAPPIER, HA’s hydrocephalus patient registry, Kevin has written a first-author paper on access to care in hydrocephalus: published here.

2021: Elliot Myong, BS, University of Southern California

Quote: "One of the things that set my experience with HA apart from other organizations I have worked with is how in touch the company is to the needs of those they are serving. It meant a lot to be a part of an organization who is truly making a difference in the lives of others, and I will cherish my time at HA forever."

During his time at HA, Elliot contributed to establishing the hydrocephalus Community Research Priorities through a scientifically validated methodology, leading to a publication in the Journal of Neurosurgery. His work can be found here.