People

Postdoctoral Scholar

I earned a BS in Chemistry and a BA in Biology from Central Washington University in 2017. I completed my PhD in Molecular, Cellular and Integrative Physiology in 2024 in the Zito lab, where I elucidated the molecular mechanisms that contribute to a refractory period during plasticity at single spine synapses. My current interests continue to center on the cellular and molecular mechanisms of synaptic plasticity during learning. Outside of the lab, I like to code, play video games and spend time with my wife and daughter and our pets.

Postdoctoral Scholar

I received my PhD in Molecular, Cellular and Integrative Physiology from UC Davis in 2024 working with Dr. Rose Dixon on L-type calcium channel regulation in the heart. My current interests lie in uncovering the mechanisms of changes in synaptic plasticity pathways during learning and disease. When I’m not in lab, I love crafts and being outside-- I am particularly fond of hiking and skiing in Tahoe.

Graduate Student

I’m a Ph.D. student in the Molecular Cellular Integrative Physiology graduate group. I received my BS in chemistry with an emphasis in biochemistry in 2017, from there I spent a few years in biotech and a few more years as staff in the lab of Dr. Lin Tian. For my thesis project I am studying a non-canonical NMDA receptor signaling cascade as well as developing new tools to predict it in-vivo. My interest lies in protein structure function and how we can alter these systems for therapeutic benefit. When I am not on the bench I like to spend my time exploring the nearby mountain ranges or spending time at home with my two cats.

Junior Specialist

I received my B.S. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology while interning here in the Zito Lab, where I worked on optimizing a fluorescent biosensor for D-serine to understand its role in non-ionotropic signalling of NMDA receptors. Now, as a Junior Specialist, my research focuses on the role of Ephexin 5 in Alzheimer’s Disease through its effect on dendritic plasticity and its position in the signaling pathways for outgrowth and retraction of dendritic spines. When I’m not in the lab, you can find me pouring through fantasy books, soaking up sun on the beach, and fawning over my dogs.

Undergraduate Student

I’m an undergraduate student working toward my B.S. in Cognitive Science with an emphasis in Neuroscience. My research focuses on optimizing a high–temporal-resolution fluorescent biosensor for D-serine to better understand the mechanisms underlying non-ionotropic signaling in NMDA receptors, aligning with my broader interest in uncovering how these processes relate to atypical neural conditions. Outside of the lab, I enjoy exploring new cafés, reading, and searching for the best taco trucks in the area.

Visiting Graduate Student

I'm a Ph.D. student in the Spine Plasticity Lab supervised by Dr. Miquel Bosch, currently conducting part of my research at the Zito Lab. I hold a Bachelor's degree in biochemistry and a Master’s in Genetics and Genomics. I have worked on learning disorders such as autism, which sparked my interest in the cellular mechanisms underlying cognition and behavior. My current research explores the role of mGluRs and NMDARs in synaptic plasticity using advanced imaging techniques. Outside the lab, I enjoy playing board games, spending time with friends, and doing crafts and creative projects.