Research and me

My dissertation focused on the physiological mechanisms that allow for vertebrate survival during exposures to anoxia and dehydration. Specifically, I investigated the neurotransmitter γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and its role in survival of embryos of the annual killifish, Austrofundulus limnaeus, during bouts of no oxygen and no water. I believe that nature, through evolution, has already solved many problems that cause or contribute to human diseases. By studying organisms that have evolved to survive in conditions that challenge human physiology or cause damage to human tissues, we can better understand how to treat and prevent these diseases in humans. Due to COVID-19, my dissertation defense was conducted remotely via Zoom. Although I was not able to interact and celebrate with people in person, a remote defense enabled my family, friends, and colleagues from across the world to attend or watch a recording of my PhD defense,