I am a cellular neuroscientist focusing on oligodendrocyte-neuron interactions. Oligodendrocyte lineage cells undergo dramatic changes from their precursor stage to their mature, myelinating stage in order to wrap neurons and increase the conductance of action potentials along axons. Oligodendrocytes and myelin patterns also change in response to new experiences, raising the possibility that myelin could shape and maintain long-lasting adaptations in neuronal circuits throughout life. I am currently studying how oligodendrocytes and myelin influence circuit maturation and plasticity during postnatal development. 

I am also interested in learning about, and finding ways to combat, systemic racism and sexism in academia.  Things I have been reading:

• The New Jim Crow by Michelle Alexander

• White Fragility by Robin DiAngelo

• Race, Ethnicity, and NIH Research Awards by Ginther et al., 2011

• Responses to 10 Common Criticisms of Anti-Racism Action in STEM by Maya Gosztyla, Lydia Kwong, Naomi Murray, and Claire Williams