I graduated from Converse College (2019) with a B.S. in Biochemistry, minor in Psychology. While at Converse College I conducted research in the lab of Dr. Will Case (2017-2019) focused on developing a novel enzyme-based 1st generation amperometic biosensor with a xero-gel adaptable template to detect biologically relevant analytes. After taking a course in Immunology, I found my passion and interest for the subject leading me to join Dr. Randall Gregg’s lab (2018-2019) at the Edward Via School of Osteopathic Medicine (VCOM). My research concentrated on detailing how simulated microgravity states induced reversion of murine lymphoma immune evasion.
After graduation, I joined the lab of Dr. Georgia Tomaras at the Center for Systems Immunology at Duke University (2019-2022). While in the Tomaras Lab, I studied antibody dynamics of Malaria vaccine-induced and laboratory optimized antibodies to characterize epitope specificity, antibody affinity, and how these characteristics correlated to protective immunity. I also worked as a part of the Coronavirus Immunotherapy Consortium (CoVIC) to study and discover potential therapeutic antibody candidates against SARS-CoV-2.
I joined the Duke Immunology Ph.D. Program in Fall 2021 and affiliated with The Luftig Lab in March 2022. My research now focuses on elucidating the role of atypical memory B cells in EBV related disease states such as Multiple Sclerosis and Burkitt’s Lymphoma. I am also interested in studying the relationship of B cell receptor antigen specificity to Burkitt’s Lymphoma pathogenesis and maintenance. Besides research, I enjoy planning Luftig Lab Fun events such as cocktail hours, tie-dying, cookie competitions, and Lab Olympics.
Outside of the lab I love attending concerts, baking, exploring new restaurants and bars, Pilates, and golfing.
