Year you started the Neuroscience Program: 2006

Why you chose the UC Denver Neuroscience Program: I came into CU through the Biomedical Science Program, which is an umbrella program. I was able to choose any lab I wanted. I chose Angie Ribera’s Lab and she is a member of the Neuroscience Program.

What labs you rotated in: Angie Ribera, Linda Barlow, Jess Tyler

What lab you joined and why: Ribera Lab. An amazing rapport with the PI. Although you have to enjoy your project, the relationship you have with your PI is critical for a successful and timely PhD education.

Short description of your project: I am studying the regulation of a voltage gated potassium channel in developing Xenopus.

Where you attended undergrad and what your major/minor(s) were: Washington College in Maryland. Washington College is the 9th oldest college in the country and enrolled only 980 students when I was there. Major: Biology (B.S.)

What you did (if anything) between undergrad and grad school: I spent 3 years at the University of Maryland getting a MS in biology. Then I spent 2 and a half years working for an industrial lab running their transmission electron microscopy. I found a temporary position in the USDA studying a lethal gene in a nematode parasite of soybeans. After the soybean experiment was published, I came to CU to earn my PhD.

Other school affiliated activities/clubs you are involved in: I am the founding President of the Alternative in Science Club on campus. We act as the connecting force between the University and the Bioscience Community of Colorado. I am also a member of the Graduate Student Council.

What you like to do outside of school: Rock climbing brought me to Colorado. I have been meaning to get into mountain biking, skiing, hiking, etc, but there is so much ROCK here!