Brandon Selz is a PhD candidate in MCIP whose research focuses on how β-adrenergic receptor subtypes generate distinct pools of nuclear cAMP through different adenylyl cyclase isoforms and spatial signaling mechanisms. Using FRET-based biosensors and molecular tools, his work dissects how compartmentalized cAMP microdomains regulate gene expression and long-term cellular adaptations. Outside of the lab, Brandon enjoys going to live EDM shows and exploring local breweries.

Originally from Paris, France, Josephine came to the US in 2015 for her undergraduate studies at Lawrence University (WI). She then spent two years as a lab technician at Johns Hopkins (Baltimore,MD) before beginning her PhD at UC Davis in 2021 in Dr. Xiang’s Lab. She studies adrenergic signaling in the brain, focusing on fear-related memory and B2AR-driven mechanisms in Alzheimer’s Disease. Josephine has technical experience in mouse handling and behavioral testing, as well as tissue processing, including western blotting and immunohistochemistry (IHC). Beyond the lab, Josephine enjoys spending quality time with family and friends, painting and discovering new places. 

Sherif Bahriz, sailing from Egypt, is investigating new mechanisms of PKA activation across the brain, heart, and adipose tissue. His research focuses on how PKA signaling influences heart failure and metabolic diseases, with the goal of identifying potential new therapeutic targets.

Victoria is originally from Massachusetts, where she received a BS in Animal Science from UMass Amherst before moving to UC Davis to begin her PhD in the MCIP graduate group. Victoria is also involved in science policy and advocacy, and participated in the ASPET Washington Fellows program in 2024-2025. 

Her project focuses on understanding the role of SAP97 in regulating the LTCC and EC-coupling in the heart using immunofluorescent imaging and electrophysiology techniques. When not at the patch rig, Victoria enjoys outdoors and spending time with her cat. 

Zhenduo is a visiting PhD student from Anhui Medical University, currently spending about a year and a half at X-lab. His research focuses on ER calcium regulation and stress in HFpEF, and the therapeutic potential of PDE4D inhibitors in treating HFpEF. 

Outside the lab, He enjoys cooking and often prepares traditional Chinese dishes.