Research Mentor: Dr. Isabel MuzzioResearch Project: Role of Auditory Cortex (AC) and its long-range GABAergic projections to lateral amygdala in recent and remote recallEmotional memory is the lens through which we interpret the world and is essential for our behavioral and emotional balance. The precise mechanisms underlying how these memories are formed and recalled remain a significant challenge in neuroscience. As a research intern under Dr. Isabel Muzzio, I am working on a project exploring the role of the Auditory Cortex (AC) and its long-range GABAergic projections to the lateral amygdala (LA) in both recent and remote memory recall.Our research focuses on understanding the reciprocal connectivity between the AC and LA, critical regions for processing auditory signals and emotional information, respectively. While previous studies have highlighted the importance of excitatory projections from the LA to the AC in fear associations, the specific role of somatostatin (SST) inhibitory neurons within this pathway remains unclear. Recent findings from the Apicella lab reveal a long-range SST projection from the AC to the LA, but its functional role and impact on memory persistence need further investigation.To address this, we use a sound discrimination task combined with chemogenetic techniques to inhibit principal cells in the AC during memory retrieval. Mice are fear-conditioned with distinct auditory cues and tested at various intervals to assess their ability to discriminate between fearful and safe sounds. Our findings reveal that inhibiting AC principal cells and the long-range GABAergic projections from the AC to the LA during early retrieval significantly affects early and remote memory discrimination.We believe that further research will hold significant implications for developing targeted therapies for anxiety-related disorders by modulating specific neural pathways involved in emotional regulation.

I proudly belong to the inaugural cohort of the iDREAM (Iowa: Diversifying Research Experiences and Mentorship) Post-Baccalaureate research program in Neuroscience at the University of Iowa. This initiative is dedicated to providing robust training in neuroscience, with a dual focus on excellence in research and the cultivation of a profound sense of community. The overarching goal is to foster a collaborative environment that extends beyond the University of Iowa, creating a lasting impact within the broader neuroscience community.

Research Mentors: Dr. Calvin Carter and Dr. Val SheffieldResearch Project: Wireless targeting of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) to prevent neuronal loss in Alzheimer’s disease.Despite extensive research, safe and effective treatments for Alzheimer’s disease remain elusive. Under the mentorship of Dr. Val Sheffield and Dr. Calvin Carter, I developed a project aimed at addressing the neurodegeneration associated with Alzheimer’s disease. Our research focused on the innovative use of wirelessly applied electromagnetic fields to precisely target and modulate reactive oxygen species (ROS) within the brain. By aiming to mitigate oxidative stress, we sought to protect neurons from damage and loss, ultimately preserving cognitive functions. This project was designed to enhance our understanding of Alzheimer’s pathology and open new avenues for non-invasive therapeutic interventions.

Lab: Adolescent Development and Delinquency LabPI: Dr. April Thomas Project: Juvenile Legal Decision-Making StudyAs A Research Assistant at the Adolescent Development and Delinquency Lab, I played an integral role in supporting research projects related to adolescent development and delinquency. My responsibilities included recruiting participants, conducting literature reviews, assisting with data collection and analysis, and providing general administrative support to senior research staff.Key Accomplishments:- Assisted in the recruitment of over 200 participants for a study on juvenile legal decision-making.- Conducted literature reviews on topics related to adolescent development and delinquency, which were used to inform research studies conducted by senior research staff.- Contributed to data collection and analysis for several research studies, including administering surveys and conducting interviews with study participants.Skills:- Familiarity with statistical software such as SPSS for data analysis.- Strong attention to detail with the ability to maintain accurate records.- Excellent communication skills with the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.

Lab: Adolescent Development and Delinquency LabPI: Dr. April Thomas Project: Juvenile Legal Decision-Making StudyI am responsible for the day-to-day aspects of the lab's research, including participant recruitment, data management, data collection (using a variety of strategies for collecting data, including structured interview, self-report questionnaires, electronic daily diary reports, biological data, and behavioral tasks), participant correspondence, and miscellaneous office tasks.

As a lab assistant at Mary Baldwin University's general chemistry lab, I supported laboratory activities and ensured the smooth operation of the lab. My responsibilities included preparing materials and equipment for experiments, maintaining laboratory cleanliness and safety, and assisting students with laboratory procedures. I followed established protocols for handling hazardous materials and kept accurate records of laboratory activities. Additionally, I performed other duties as assigned by the general chemistry lab coordinator.

As a student staff member at the Virginia Women's Institute for Leadership, I provided support to the institute's staff and cadets. My responsibilities included assisting with administrative tasks such as data entry and filing, coordinating events and activities, and providing customer service to visitors. In addition to my work at the institute's office, I also worked at the Staunton Military Academy Museum, where I assisted with exhibits and provided tours to visitors. Through these experiences, I developed my leadership skills and gained valuable experience in customer service and museum operations.

As an intern at the Prince William County Sheriff's Office, I gained valuable experience in law enforcement operations and procedures. My responsibilities included assisting with administrative tasks such as data entry and filing, observing court proceedings and other law enforcement activities, and participating in community outreach events. I also had the opportunity to participate in training sessions and workshops to develop my understanding of law enforcement practices and procedures. Through this internship, I gained a deeper appreciation for the role of law enforcement in our community and developed valuable skills in communication, attention to detail, and teamwork.