Education

• PhD and MSc, Cellular and Developmental Biology
• BSc, Cellular and Molecular Biology 

Introduction and Research

From the earliest stages of my academic journey, the brain and its mysteries have been my greatest source of curiosity. Neuroscience, with its unique intersection of complexity and elegance, has continuously inspired me to ask deeper questions about how life emerges, adapts, and sometimes falters at the cellular level. My undergraduate studies in Cellular and Molecular Biology provided the foundation to appreciate the intricate networks of molecular signaling that sustain life. Building on this, I pursued my MSc and PhD in Cell and Developmental Biology, where I focused on developmental and regenerative processes in the nervous system.

During my graduate research, I focused on guiding stem cells toward neural lineages, engineering biomimetic scaffolds for regeneration, and applying transplantation strategies in models of neurodegenerative disease. These experiences not only deepened my technical expertise but also reinforced my passion for addressing the urgent challenges posed by disorders such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease.

Alongside research, I cultivated over a decade of teaching and mentoring experience, from lecturing in stem cell biology and embryology to leading laboratory workshops in neural stem cells. These opportunities allowed me not only to share my knowledge but also to foster the next generation of scientists, reinforcing my belief in science as a collaborative and evolving endeavor.

Currently, as a Postdoctoral Research Scholar at the University of Iowa in Dr. Marco Hefti’s laboratory, my research focuses on the molecular underpinnings of Alzheimer’s disease. I study the multifaceted roles of tau proteins in both human brain tissue and advanced cell culture systems. By bridging molecular cell biology with translational neuroscience, my goal is to reveal novel therapeutic targets that could help shift the trajectory of neurodegenerative disorders.

Beyond technical expertise, what drives me is an enduring passion for discovery and innovation. I believe that breakthroughs emerge when curiosity meets persistence, and when basic science is pursued with both rigor and imagination. I am committed to contributing to the advancement of neuroscience through research that not only deepens our understanding of the brain but also holds the promise of transforming patient care.