Research Ambassadors
Ben Pirincci '27
Email me at: bpirincc@u.rochester.edu
Discipline(s) of Research
- Humanities
- Life Sciences
Major(s) and Minor(s)
- B.S. in Neuroscience
- B.A. in Archaeology, Technology, and Historical Structures
Areas of Interest/Research Focus
My research interests span archaeology, neuroscience, and law. I have studied Moche sexuality, gender, ritual, and death expression through ceramic iconography and archaeological context, with research at the University of Rochester and planned fieldwork in Peru and collections research in Chicago. I have also researched epigenetic markers of trauma in neurons, as well as legal studies examining how morality shapes laws and legal systems across the Middle East.
Areas where I may be particularly helpful
- Cold emailing
- Interview practice/advice
- RIG Usage
- Applications for grants, grad schools, etc.
- General research advice
- Finding your own passion project
- Finding connections for research or professional growth
What advice do you have for prospective or new researchers?
Honestly, I wish someone had told me that you don’t have to know exactly what you’re doing when you first start researching. I spent a lot of time worrying that I was approaching things the “right” way when really, a lot of research is just figuring things out as you go and realizing that your question or direction might change. I’d tell someone starting out to ask for help sooner, even if they feel like their question is obvious, because talking through an idea with someone can save you so much time. And don’t be afraid to follow what genuinely interests you, because that’s what makes the harder parts of research feel worth it.