Hometown: Jacksonville, FL
Year I became a Gator: 2024
Department: Pharmacology & Therapeutics
Mentor: Adrienn Varga, PhD
Research focus: My research examines how specific neural circuits control respiratory rate and rhythm to uncover new therapeutic targets for alleviating respiratory disorders. I currently explore how these circuits can be leveraged to combat opioid-induced respiratory depression.
What drives me: A passion and curiosity for understanding how the central nervous system regulates different aspects of physiology.
What I like most about the BREATHE Training Program: I enjoy the emphasis on professional development, which will prepare me for a long-term career in the respiratory sciences. Through opportunities to present my research across various BREATHE events with both invited speakers and BREATHE faculty, I will be primed to excel in my future academic pursuits.
What I like about Gainesville: I love that I am surrounded by a community of fellow passionate young scientists. I also enjoy getting to explore the beautiful nature around Gainesville.
Why I chose BREATHE at the University of Florida: The BREATHE community includes many scientists who have made foundational contributions to the field of respiratory physiology. I am very excited to learn and receive feedback from leaders in my field through coursework, seminars, and mentoring opportunities.
What makes the BREATHE Training Program unique? The integration of basic, translational and clinical expertise represented by the BREATHE Center provides a unique training environment. Interacting with BREATHE clinicians will allow me to gain a better understanding of how my basic discoveries in the lab can be leveraged to meet the needs of patients with respiratory disorders.
What I do for fun: In my free time, I enjoy hanging out with a group of my PhD cohort peers. I also enjoy hiking, getting coffee at local shops, swimming in the springs, and going on runs through campus.