Doisy Scholars
Rafael obtained both his B.S. in Biochemistry and M.S. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology in Brazil.
Rafael’s research is focused on defining the role of genomic instability-induced inflammation in metabolic disorders, tissue degeneration, and organismal decline in Progeria, a devastating premature aging disease.
Outside of the Lab, Rafael enjoys spending time with his family and friends, volunteer activities in the community, and playing music.
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.
Amelia obtained her B.S. in Biology from Murray State University in Kentucky.
Amelia’s research project is focused on investigating the p38 regulatory components involved in differentiation dependent DUX4 activation in Facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy.
Outside of the lab, Amelia enjoys reading, traveling, and spending time with her family.
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.
Hannah received her B.S. in chemistry and M.S. in pharmaceutical science and medicinal chemistry from SIUE.
Hannah’s current research project is focused on the design, synthesis, and in-depth biochemical evaluation of p38-targeting isoform specific PROTACs as novel therapeutics for FSHD and other diseases that involve p38.
In her free time, Hannah likes to read, travel, spend time with family and friends, hike, forage for mushrooms, and go kayaking.
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.
Reagan obtained his B.S. in Chemistry from Millsaps College in Jackson, Mississippi.
Reagan’s research project involves investigating potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant roles of plasmalogens, particularly in the setting of sepsis.
Other than research, Reagan enjoys hiking, fishing, and making stained glass art.
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.
Barbara obtained both her B.S. in Biochemistry and M.S. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology in Brazil.
Barbara’s research interests focus on investigating the impact of progerin expression on telomere stability and inflammation.
In her free time, Barbara loves spending time with family, especially with her daughter, and walking outside.
Amanda received her B.S. degrees in Biochemistry and Psychology from Southeast Missouri State University and her M.A. in behavioral Neuroscience from the University of Missouri – St. Louis.
Amanda’s research focuses on the RNA-binding protein, TDP-43 whose dysfunction and aggregation are associated with neurodegenerative diseases including ALS and FTLD.
Amanda enjoys playing the violin, sewing, crocheting, and playing tennis in her free time.
Rachel obtained her B.S. in Molecular Biology from Loyola University-Chicago.
Rachel’s current research is focused on determining the connection between glycogen accumulation and cardiac hypertrophy.
Outside of lab, Rachel enjoys reading, volunteering at the animal shelter, and spending time outside.
Jaclyn got her Bachelors in Biochemistry at Colorado School of Mines.
Jaclyn’s current research is on into microRNA and its impact on triglyceride metabolism in the liver.
In her free time, Jaclyn enjoys crochet and archery.
