PhD Candidate in the Cellular and Molecular Physiology & Biophysics ProgramAdvisor: Dr. Kevin G. BathEarly life stress, development, reward, dopamine, addiction

As a research assistant in the Javitch lab, I drove a project aimed at identifying novel genes and pathways that are implicated in amphetamine-induced hyperactivity in Drosophila using various genomic techniques including GWAS, AIPs, RNAseq and WGS. Through validation of candidate genes with RNAi knockdown, over 20 genes were identified to play a role in the amphetamine response.

Co-taught middle school level courses using hands-on project-based learning to engage students in learning about science and engineering topics including Molecular Biology, Forensic Science, and Textile Engineering/Biomimicry for classes up to 20 students .

• Analyzed Electroencephalography data including, but not limited to, resting EEG, P300, and ASSR-T40 from humans with bipolar and schizophrenia disorders, as well as rodents with induced schizophrenia-like symptoms from PCP and Ketamine injections to explore clinical treatment for these disorders.

Administered pre-diagnostic testing and health information collection for individuals, from infancy and beyond, receiving any sort of eye examination, including but not limited to: annual eye exams, pre/post-operative care, emergency visits, etc. Was responsible for collecting and organizing insurance information for patients prior to and following appointments.