Building a clinically effective gene delivery vector at the Schaffer Lab. Engineering reptile adeno-associated viruses to obtain desired human cell infectivity while preserving their antibody resistance.

Investigated the origin and evolution of adults’ preference for stable causal relationships as the basis for causal and explanatory generalizations at the Gopnik Lab. Worked on each stage of these studies - from study design and recruitment to running sessions and co-authoring a conference poster.

Exploring metabolic and mitochondrial dysfunction in the context of brain overgrowth linked to autism spectrum disorder using iPSC-derived brain organoids and neural progenitor cells (NPCs) at the Chetty Lab.

Used human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) models to investigate the strong male bias in ASD prevalence at the Lauren Weiss Lab. Researched how sex hormones dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and estradiol regulate the expression of key autism risk genes in males and females via RNA extraction, reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR).

Brought real-world experience to efforts to accelerate autism diagnosis at the Wall Lab. Worked on projects involving the gut microbiome, emotional recognition with Google Glasses, and the early detection of autism through home videos.

Analyzed & mapped a network of resources (food kitchens, ride-share services, dialysis centers, etc) available to seniors in the greater Portland area.