JazlynGallego

Researchers have made significant progress in understanding and combating neurodegenerative diseases. These treatments range from optogenetics to implantable brain electrodes. More recently, researchers have realized that non-neuronal brain cells are just as reactive as neuronal cells and can either aid or negatively impact the body in processes such as neuro-inflammation regulation. I am interested in investigating all of these cells separately and as a whole unit to see their response to certain treatments in order to better understand the interactions between these cells. Furthermore, this knowledge can be applied to advance the progress of more effective treatments.

I received my B.S. in Biomedical Engineering from the University of Texas at Arlington in December 2020. I was an active member and leader in Alpha Phi Omega and the Biomedical Engineering Society. I worked with Dr. Young-Tae Kim on a nerve replacement glove and was a Teaching Assistant in his Neural Engineering class. With Dr. Kytai Nguyen, I led two projects pertaining to microbial and COVID-19 detection in a paper strip format. As an intern at Nanoscope Technologies, I worked on multiple projects focused on restoring vision through various therapies such as optogenetics. I joined B.I.O.N.I.C Lab in January 2021 to pursue my Ph.D. degree.