Kenji Lee Email & Phone Number

Boston

As a Ph.D. student in the Chandrasekaran Lab at Boston University, I use machine learning to identify cell types from electrophysiology. In addition, I conduct experiments and use computational neuroscience to generate insights into how the brain is able to conduct complex perceptual decisions.In particular we study multiple areas in prefrontal cortex simultaneously using in vivo electrophysiology while a subject participates in a behavioral task. Using this modality, we are able to directly observe the individual neurons that participate in different aspects of the decision-making process. We analyze this data with non-linear dimensionality reduction and model these cortical areas using machine learning; this is done with the goal of uncovering computational motifs that facilitate behavior between both artificial and biological neural networks. Teaching fellow for PS 231: Physiological Psychology (89 students).Teaching fellow for PS/NE 337: Memory Systems (58 students).

Continuing on previous experiments with 2-photon calcium-imaging, I helped explore visual coding in the mouse during task performance under passive viewing and a go/no go visual discrimination task. I also helped gather data for the OpenScope project which is an initiative to offer up the Allen Institute's data pipelines to external collaborators.

Seattle, Wa

Conducted the in vivo imaging of the mouse visual cortex (V1 and higher visual areas) during a passive viewing task via infrared intrinsic signal imaging (ISI) and two-photon calcium imaging of transgenic Cre-positive GCaMP6f mice. These experiments served to investigate the fine characterization of the layer-dependent and areal retinotopic organization of the mouse visual cortex (V1 and proximal higher visual areas) in different cell types and cortical layers.I delivered analyses of in-vivo imaging data and meta-analyses of processing pipelines using original Python programming and SQL queries. I also developed an automated QC report generation package to speed up the through-put of experimental analysis and eliminate inter-operator QC subjectivity.I also helped drive the development of a murine eye-tracking system by helping facilitate collaboration between hardware, software, and experimental teams. I conducted piloting/feasibility studies, coordinated QC, and contributed to the codebase - this resulted in the incorporation of eye-tracking information in the latest data release which met a key deliverable for our quarterly SMART goals. As a result I was given the opportunity to present my work on behalf of the Allen Institute at the annual Society for Neuroscience Conference/

Seattle, Washington

Responsible for conducting imaging of a variety of automated high-thoughput in vitro and in vivo microscopy modalities including brightfield, fluorescence, infrared, and 2-photon. This required an understanding not only of the different illumination principles but also the unique challenges of high-throughput science.Participated in the image QC of a large variety of immunohistological/cytological stains (fluorescence IHC, in situ hybridization, Nissl/HE stains). This required not only a knowledge various staining methods but also an understanding of potential artifacts involved in each and of associated procedures in tissue preparation such as tissue extraction and cryosectioning.

Greater Seattle Area

Conducted research on the auditory neuroethology of the plainfin midshipman fish (Porichtys notatus) native to the Puget Sound. Helped to maintain and care for saltwater aquariums and conduct experiments on sound source localization. Conducted field gathering, sound localization experiments, perfusions, brain dissections, and cryosectioning.

Tacoma, Wa

Helped to care for and maintain the habitats of laboratory model organisms such as freshwater snails (Helisoma trivolvis and Lymnaea stagnalis) and freshwater fish (Danio rerio and Oryzias latipes). Conducted dissections and image analyses of embryonic and larval transgenic (GnRH-GFP) medaka fish (Oryzias latipes) exposed to environmental contaminants (Bisphenol A) using programs such as ImageJ and MATLAB. Presented the results of student research in a poster session at the 2014 international Society for Neuroscience (SfN) Annual Conference in Washington D.C. Co-authored a manuscript on the presented research which has been accepted for publication in Neurotoxicology.Cared for and maintained protist colonies. Helped to conduct tracking of Vorticellid behavior using microscopy and carried out microfluidic device analysis particle image velocimetry (PIV) in MATLAB.

Berkeley, Ca

Participated in biophysics research and conducted image analyses of the behavior of protozoan filter feeders (Vorticella) and larval microorganisms (Phestilla sibogae & Phallusia nigra). Helped to develop data collection and analysis protocols using both Excel and original MATLAB scripts. Analyzed the fluid dynamics of a fabricated microfluidic device using MATLAB and presented these results at an undergraduate poster session.

Honolulu, Hawaii

Continued examination of the cognitive changes in older patients living with HIV/AIDS via the statistical analysis of fMRI data (SPM8) using an expanded data set and sample size. Conducted the examination of patients living with HIV/AIDS via independent component analysis (ICA) of the default brain network via resting state fMRI scans.

Honolulu, Hawaii

Conducted several literature reviews and created a research project proposal which was then presented for approval. Conducted a research project investigating the cognitive changes present in older patients with HIV/AIDS via the statistical analysis of fMRI data (SPM8). Organized data processing pipeline and eliminated database inconsistencies; assembled backlogged data and prepared it for analysis and publication.

Doctor Of Philosophy (M.A./Ph.D.), Psychological And Brain Sciences (Brain, Behavior, And Cognition Program), 3.92

Ph.D. student in the lab of Chandramouli Chandrasekaran conducting research in cognitive and computational neuroscience. Examining.

Master Of Science (M.S.), Applied Mathematics

Studying methods of modeling and associated algorithms for their solution of dynamical systems using both explicit differential equations.

Bachelor Of Science (B.S.), Majors In Biochemistry And Mathematics; Minor In Neuroscience

Activities and Societies: Sigma Chi Fraternity, SAACS (Student Affiliates of the American Chemical Society), ETC Tutoring, Hui o HawaiiA.

Education record

Student representative to the Curriculum Committee, President of the Interact Club, AP Scholar with Distinction, Merit Scholar.