Medical Scientist Training ProgramSummer 2021 PhD rotation: Otis LabSpring 2023 completed USMLE Step 1Summer 2023 PhD rotation: Rinker LabSummer 2023 Joined Otis lab (primary mentor)Summer 2023 Joined Rinker lab (co-mentor)My current basic neuroscience research investigates the role of the prefrontal cortex in exerting top-down control over limbic systems during motivated behavior. This project uses two-photon imaging to investigate how relatively small, unique populations of neurons, or ensembles, differentially mediate reward seeking processes. This research is useful in understanding psychiatric conditions like substance use disorders as well as garnering a greater understanding of higher cognition and the intersection between motivation and action.The translational neuroscience I am engaged in employs focused megasonic waves and nanoparticle technology to non-invasively deliver therapeutics with extreme accuracy to the mammalian brain. We have successfully developed a focused ultrasound machine and are fabricating lipid drug carriers that can permeate the blood brain barrier and remain inert until acted upon by our device.The clinical research I am involved in uses various forms of MRI and blood samples to detect biomarkers of substance use disorder morbidity and recovery. The current standard of care for people with SUD often includes inpatient and outpatient treatment, sober housing, and certified peer recovery specialist services. Working closely with populations receiving this care has yielded great fulfillment for me, and also the opportunity to advance the science of recovery, push back on stigma, and freely report any significant findings we obtain which might help others in the community to provide high quality care.

AmethystRecoverySolutions.orgAmethyst Recovery Solutions is a 501(c)3 nonprofit and federally recognized recovery community organization dedicated to supporting individuals with substance use disorders in Minnesota. By "inspiring positive change through community, human connection, and fun in recovery," our organization aims to bridge a gap in care that exists between treatment centers and long-term recovery. Our goals for 2023 include developing curricula for peer recovery support specialist certification and continuing education courses which are affordable and easily accessible. We hope to train and recruit a diverse team of PRSS leaders whose mosaic of lived experiences builds community recovery capital and addresses barriers to care experienced by many Minnesotans. Primary organizational objectives are to combat rising rates of SUD (17.9% in US adults in 2021) and raise unacceptably low rates at which people with SUD receive treatment (currently less than 1 in 10 nationally). We address this through a combination of peer support, referrals to proper healthcare and housing resources, and recovery-themed community events. We are committed to providing trauma- and culturally informed services that are evidence-based. We hope to transform Amethyst Recovery Solutions into a cutting-edge medical and research institute for substance use disorders by 2030.

Basic science tool innovation: Patented 3D printed and CNC machined neuroscience devices.Clinical software development: Machine learning solutions for clinical studies and data analysis.Basic and clinical science consulting.

Research support in the Bernlohr lab studying metabolic dysfunction and cellular senescence.