Scientists over the years have created metaphorical connections between the cosmos and neural circuitry due to their intricate complexities. And it was Carl Sagan’s innovative insight that truly captured my young scientific mind: “Science is based on experiment, on a willingness to challenge old dogma, on an openness to see the universe as it really is.”

I have developed a passion for studying both pharmacology and neuroscience as means to explore the brain. As for academics, I specialized in molecular and cellular biology and pursued a double major in anthropology from the University of South Dakota. Throughout my undergraduate career, I worked as a research assistant in neuroendocrinology and behavioral neuroscience within the Summers Lab.

As part of my honors thesis, I traveled with other passionate students to Peru for an internship through North Peru Project. While there, we investigated the biochemical properties of traditional medicines as therapeutic treatments. This experience changed my perception on psychoactive compounds in treating psychiatric disorders. I have always been fascinated with how a single biochemical can drastically alter functionality and wellbeing.

Currently, I am working towards my PhD in molecular and cellular pharmacology from UW–Madison. My current research within the Wenthur Lab focuses on deconvoluting and better understanding the underlying mechanisms for rapid antidepressants. I find this area of research highly fascinating and rewarding.

In my personal life, when not in the lab, I am either at the gym, hiking, biking, or fishing. Despite being an active person, I also enjoy sketching, painting, and attempting to make new foods.