Minke Nota, PhD

Postdoctoral Scientist

I am a postdoctoral research fellow investigating the neural circuitry of anesthesia emergence and exercise. I obtained my PhD in the Nolan/O’Leary Lab at University College Cork, Ireland, where I researched the interactions between a cafeteria diet and exercise on peripheral state, and their effects on adult hippocampal neurogenesis and neurogenesis-associated behaviours. Besides research, I enjoy traveling, hiking and bouldering, and love to quilt. 

Carlee Toddes, PhD

Postdoctoral Scientist, Weill Neurohub Fellow 

Primary appointment in the Golden Laboratory, co-mentored by Dr. Heshmati

I am a postdoctoral research fellow specializing in the study of neural dynamics underlying pain-modulated social behavior. I obtained my Ph.D. from the University of Minnesota, where I conducted research in the Rothwell Lab investigating opioidergic mechanisms that underlie social affiliative behaviors. Beyond my laboratory work, I am deeply committed to promoting positive change in the scientific community through active involvement in science policy and advocacy.  

Ainsley Barrow

Research Technologist

 I graduated from the University of Washington in 2023 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Neuroscience and was initially drawn to the field after working with patients with neurodegenerative disorders. Throughout my undergraduate career, I became more interested in the neural mechanisms behind psychiatric disorders and behavior, which attracted me to the lab. 

Hallie Lazaro

Research Technologist

Ella Apley

Undergraduate Student 

I am a current sophomore hoping to study biochemistry at the University of Washington. After I graduate, I plan on attending graduate school and pursuing a career in medicine or biological sciences. Besides research, I love spending time with my friends, hiking, and traveling outside of Washington State! 

Riley Keeler

Undergraduate Student 

I am an undergraduate student at the University of Washington studying Biochemistry. Following graduation I plan to work as a ski patroller and then attend medical school with hopes of becoming a surgeon. Within lab I am interested in understanding chronic pain with hopes of finding effective treatment approaches. 

Nick Ressler

Undergraduate Student 

Primary appointment in the Golden Laboratory, co-mentored by Dr. Heshmati

I am currently an undergraduate student planning to study neuroscience at the University of Washington. After graduation, I hope to attend graduate school and continue work in research, with interests in cognition, behavior, and computer science. Outside of academics, I play the drums and love Seattle's music and hiking scenes!

Silvana Segura

Undergraduate Student 

I am a Psychology student at the University of Washington, interested in cognitive disorders, behavior, and clinical applications of wet lab research. In the future I hope to attend medical school, and find a specialty in medicine I am passionate about. Aside from my interests in psychology and neuroscience, I love music and also sing in the UW Chorale choir.  

Cole Shin

Undergraduate Student 

I am an undergraduate student at the University of Washington hoping to study Neuroscience. I am interested in understanding how common occurrences like stress and pain can affect behavior, with the ultimate goal of pursuing a career in medicine. Outside of lab, I enjoy spending time with family and traveling. 

Virginia Wang

Undergraduate Student 

Primary appointment in the Golden Laboratory, co-mentored by Dr. Heshmati

Virginia is a student in the Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science & Engineering.

Jason Zhang

Undergraduate Student 

I am currently majoring in Biochemistry along with two additional minors. I hope to pursue a career in medicine specializing in anesthesiology. Outside of the lab, I enjoy spending time with friends and family as well as learning niche skills.