Role: Predoctoral Graduate Research Assistant (co-mentored with Sarah C. Hopp, Ph.D.)

Hometown: Ventura, California

Education: Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences (Minor: Aging & Adult Development), University of California Davis

Research: My thesis research focuses on understanding spatial and temporal glycosylation patterns in neurodegeneration. Specifically, I explore the relationship between a subtype of glycosylation, known as sialylation, and microglia function in Alzheimer’s Disease. Exciting, I established a significant increase in sialylation of microglia near amyloid beta plaques in both murine models of Alzheimer’s Disease and post-mortem brain tissue. My work continues to explore sialylation patterns in other amyloid pathologies including Cerebral Amyloid Angiopathy.

Interests: Outside of the lab I enjoy hiking, traveling, crafting, and thrift/antique shopping.