C. Blake Wilson
I was born in Washington, DC. I obtained my bachelors degree from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, my PhD from the University of California, Santa Barbara, and I carried out postdoctoral research at the National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, Maryland. My scientific passion is to build tools combining my experience in chemistry and physics to study biology at the molecular level, and to use those tools to address questions related to human health and quality of life.
I enjoy hiking, rock climbing, reading, and cooking.
Sneha Samanta
I was born in Kolkata, West Bengal, India. I completed my integrated bachelor’s and master’s degree from the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Mohali with a major in chemistry and specialization in physical chemistry. Since my undergraduate studies, I have always been interested in quantum mechanics and spectroscopy. As a physical chemistry PhD, I want to explore more about dynamic nuclear polarization (DNP), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) to investigate unresolved problems in chemistry and condensed matter physics.
Outside my academic work, I enjoy reading, painting, singing, photography and watching anime.
Rachel Zhu
I am a Biochemistry major with a minor in Business Administration at Dornsife and Marshall at USC. Growing up, I have been interested in the molecular mechanisms of neurodegenerative diseases, specifically investigating their underlying causes and potential preventative measures. My long-term professional goals include transitioning into management within the pharmaceutical industry, where I can apply both my laboratory background and strategic training. In my free time, I love playing archery, hanging out with friends, and spending time with my awesome pets!
Ronan Burden
I am from San Clemente, California and am currently an undergraduate student in Dornsife at USC studying Biochemistry and Neuroscience. I am very interested in researching the underlying causes of prevalent neurodegenerative diseases, as well as investigating the biochemical nature of them to determine potential treatments. My long-term goals include using the information and skills I have acquired through this research as I pursue a career in medicine, either in surgery or emergency medicine. In my free time I enjoy listening to music, playing volleyball, going to the beach, collecting records, and spending time with friends.