Zach received a B.S. in Chemistry and a B.S. in Biological Science from Missouri S&T in Rolla, MO.

Zach’s current research focuses on the interplay between diet and heart disease, specifically investigating the role that ketone bodies play in mitigating the development of heart failure.

In his free time, Zach enjoys playing music with several community bands, bowling, and going to the movies.

Christy received both their B.S. in Biology and M.S. in Bioinformatics & Computational Biology from Saint Louis University.

Christy’s current research project is on solving the structure of the mitochondrial pyruvate transporter MPC complex and investigating possible inhibitors with therapeutic impacts in cancer, diabetes, neurodegenerative diseases, and obesity.

In their free time, Christy likes to pursue various hobbies including skateboarding, rollerblading, crocheting, sewing, and fictional creative writing.

Lucas received his B.S. in Chemistry from Rockhurst University in Kansas City, MO, and his M.S. in Biomedical Sciences from A.T. Still University in Kirksville, MO.

Lucas’ research focuses on the elctrophysiological and biophysical properties of voltage-gated ion channels, specifically the voltage-sensing mechanism, in disease conditions. He is currently focusing on pain and cardiac arrhythmias such as Long-QT syndrome.

Outside of the lab, Lucas loves all things outdoors. He is also an avid golfer who loves to play. Lucas is a fan of many other sports and is a HUGE (long-time) Kansas City Chiefs fan.

Matthew obtained his B.S. in Biology and an M.S. in Engineering Technology from the University of Houston.

Matthew’s current research is focused on lipid mediators of blood brain barrier dysfunction following traumatic brain injuries.

Outside of the lab, Matthew coaches select soccer.

Atika obtained both her B.S and M.S in Biochemistry and Biotechnology from University of Missouri – St. Louis.

Atika’s research focuses on defining the mechanistic roles of Vitamin D Receptor (VDR) in genomic instability and sterile inflammation and investigating Vitamin D/VDR’s therapeutic impact in cancer/age-related diseases.

Outside of the lab, Atika likes spending time with my friends and family, walking in forest park, trying new restaurants, and going to concerts.

Ayush received his B.S in Biology and a second major-equivalent in Political Science, from Ashoka University, near New Delhi, India.

Ayush’s research project focuses on determining the mechanism of Rad52’s mediator activity in homologous recombination and delineating its coordinated interactions with RPA, DNA, and Rad51 in facilitating efficient and faultless DNA repair.

Outside of the lab, Ayush takes a keen interest in engaging with non-fiction literature, trying to cook, and occasionally biking.