Our team

A Chicago native, Emily graduated cum laude from Monmouth College with a B.A. in Biopsychology and a minor in Chemistry. She is fascinated by how communication shapes behavior, from signals between neurons to the exchange of ideas across communities. Alongside her research, she is passionate about making biomedical science clear and compelling for audiences within and beyond the scientific community. Outside the lab, she enjoys getting lost in a good book (or 100) and befriending dogs, with a talent for the latter that might just qualify her as the lab’s resident dog whisperer.

Meghan brings a background in Exercise Science and Behavioral Neuroscience from Grand Valley State University and roots in Valparaiso, Indiana. She is interested in the molecular mechanisms that govern sensory neuron function. Outside the lab, she enjoys hiking, painting, and spending time with her cats, who remain largely unimpressed by her scientific credentials.

Originally from Elk Grove Village, Illinois, Heidi is interested in understanding the mechanisms behind neurological conditions, including neuropathic pain, and identifying potential treatments. Outside the lab, she enjoys rock climbing, where she puts her patience and problem-solving skills to work on a different kind of challenge.

Sean’s path to neuroscience began in St. Thomas and took him to Elon University in North Carolina, where he studied Exercise Science and Psychology. He is interested in how communication between neurons shapes complex behaviors. Outside the lab, he enjoys surfing and working out. Understanding the brain keeps him curious; catching the next wave keeps him humble.

From Mexico City by way of Dominican University, Alondra studies Behavioral Neuroscience and wants to understand the molecular mysteries behind schizophrenia and chronic pain. Outside the lab, you’ll find her at concerts, spending time with family and friends, or writing poetry. Apparently, unraveling the brain wasn’t enough of a creative challenge.

Raised in Chicago’s southwest suburbs and proud of her Lithuanian heritage, Emilija is pursuing a B.S. in Biology and Spanish at Loyola University Chicago, as if speaking two (almost 3) languages wasn’t enough. She hopes to become a physician assistant specializing in neurosurgery. In the lab, she investigates how proteasome inhibitors and peripheral nerve injury affect nerve fiber density in paw skin, while helping graduate students and learning something new every day. Her broader interests include neurological disorders, nerve regeneration, and tumor biology. Outside the lab, she enjoys traveling, staying active, exploring new places, and spending time with family and friends. Clearly, her curiosity doesn’t take days off.