Samantha Washburn Email and Phone Number

Independently conducted two research projects that used advanced techniques to understand the neural circuits underlying normal and abnormal motor behavior. Collaborated with colleagues in the laboratory to expand on some of the ideas resulting from my thesis work. Successfully applied for Ruth L. Kirschstein Predoctoral Individual National Research Service Award (F31). Communicated findings through oral and poster presentations at multiple major conferences in the fields of neuroscience and cerebellar research, including the annual Society for Neuroscience Conference and the Cerebellum Gordon Research Conference. Model system: miceTechniques: Stereotaxic survival surgeries (viral injections, fiberoptic implants), optogenetics, in vivo extracellular electrophysiological recording, whole-cell patch clamp electrophysiological recording, behavioral testing and analysis, immunohistochemistry, Western blot

Earned a Beta Beta Beta Research Award, given by the National Biological Honor Society (2011), to carry out experiments that examined the effects of in utero exposure to the pharmacological compound Prozac® on the developing nervous system and subsequent adolescent behavior. Presented findings at the Beta Beta Beta Northeast-1 District Convention (April 29, 2012) and received John C. Johnson Award for top poster presentation.Model system: zebrafishTechniques: RNA extraction, reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reactions, gel electrophoresis, fluorescent microscopy, behavioral analysis

Courses: Organic Chemistry, PhysicsWorked directly with students to review and improve understanding of course material and develop personalized study plans