Spencer Danner-Bocks
Hi, my name is Spencer. I graduated from the University of Nevada, Reno, obtaining a Bachelor of Science in biotechnology and a minor in Chinese. I am very interested in using omics related techniques to uncover mechanisms relating to the contribution of glial cells to neurodegeneration. I am currently working on a project in the Kampmann Lab working on developing a platform for in vivo CRISPRi screens in mice brains. I am currently applying for neuroscience PhD programs and hope to one day be a PI. Outside of the lab, I love taking morning walks, hitting the gym and Formula 1.
Jermey Libang
Hi, my name is Jeremy. My previous institution was UC Merced, my major was biological sciences. Currently, I'm interested in immunology research. My career aspirations is to be a chancellor or university president.
Kyle Magro
My name is Kyle Magro, and I am a Junior Specialist in Professor Mark Ansel's Laboratory. I graduated from UC Merced with a B.S. in Human Biology, and a minor in Writing Studies. I am interested in dissecting molecular mechanisms and signaling pathways of immunological disease for targeted drug therapeutics. Currently, I am studying a post-transcriptional regulatory element marked by a disease-associated single nucleotide polymorphism and RNA-binding protein-occupied sites. I am applying to Immunology PhD programs this Fall, and I hope to continue my research career in academia by becoming a principal investigator in the field of RNA immunology.
Annette Mercedes
My name is Annette R. Mercedes, and I am a Junior Specialist in Professor Anita Sil’s Laboratory, where I am studying the role of a family of small-secreted effectors called knottins during Histoplasma capsulatum infections. Before joining the Sil Lab, I completed my Master's degree in Public Health with a specialization in Infectious Disease, Vaccinology, and Global Health from UC Berkeley. Prior to that, I attended the University of Washington, where I earned a B.S. in Anthropology with a focus on Human Evolutionary Biology, as well as a B.A. in Biology. I have a broad interest in studying host-pathogen interactions, as well as the molecular mechanisms of immune tolerance and dysregulation. Additionally, I am fascinated by spaceflight biology. This fall, I am applying to Immunology programs with the hope of focusing my research on understanding how environmental and genetic factors impact the regulation of immune responses.