https://www.developingfuturebiologists.com/dfb-instuctors daily 0.75 2025-11-12 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1548279642049-EXZG741VCRW1KHAG9U8R/benallen_1.jpg DFB Instructors - Ben Allen, Ph.D., Associate Professor Cell & Developmental Biology https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1548279642049-EXZG741VCRW1KHAG9U8R/benallen_1.jpg DFB Instructors - Ben Allen, Ph.D., Associate Professor Cell & Developmental Biology https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1548039281045-5VDELJ4FQPTTB1GLI4EH/scott_barolo_headshot.png DFB Instructors - Scott Barolo, Ph.D. Associate Professor of Cell & Developmental Biology https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1548039347135-GU0LK0R9ZR76M93QFVR1/LauraB_headshot.jpg DFB Instructors - Laura Buttitta, Ph.D. Associate Professor of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology I enjoyed reading science fiction as a high school student and became interested in biology as a “pre-med” undergraduate. After a summer of research in a chemistry lab my sophomore year, I decided to abandon my plans for medical school, and apply to graduate school instead. I obtained my Ph.D. from Johns Hopkins University in Developmental Biology in 2004. I then joined Dr. Bruce Edgar's lab as a postdoctoral researcher at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center. There I began using Drosophila (fruit flies) as a model system to study developmental control of cell cycle regulation. My lab at U. Michigan opened in Jan. 2011 and uses Drosophila to study how the cell cycle is regulated during development. I also teach half of the U. Michigan undergraduate Developmental Biology course (Bio 205). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1630521129598-UXMV909K16LFL8OWE6LY/Kelsey%2BTemprine%2Bheadshot.jpg DFB Instructors - Kelsey Temprine, Ph.D., Postdoctoral Fellow in Molecular & Integrative Physiology I earned my B.S. in Biology from the University of Texas at Austin before heading off to Washington, D.C. to work as a postbac at the NIH. I then moved to NYC where I completed my Ph.D. in Cancer Biology at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in 2018. My PhD work used human cell culture and zebrafish models to study drug resistance in melanoma (a type of skin cancer). I am currently a Postdoctoral Research Fellow in the Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology and the Cancer Biology Program. I am currently investigating how sugar metabolism promotes the activation of signaling pathways essential for colon cancer as well as determining the role of red blood cells in colon cancer progression. When not in the lab, I enjoy eating ice cream (butter pecan is my favorite flavor!), combining my loves of science and crafting, and hiking as much as possible. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1630522200405-CM4KLDL1F6MDKYBVFYKS/Fatima%2BJaved.jpg DFB Instructors - Fatima Javed, Ph.D. Candidate in Cell & Developmental Biology I am a fourth year PhD candidate in the department of Cell & Developmental Biology. I work in Dr. Carole Parent's lab studying to understand how our immune cells get to the site of injury or infection. Outside of the lab, I enjoy talking about science, reading fiction novels, hanging out with friends and family and cuddling with my cat. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1606232745827-N1FHKJBQ5A0ZJVRXSJYX/Eli+Olson.jpg DFB Instructors - Eli Olson, Ph.D. Candidate in Immunology I grew up in the Kansas City area, and attended the University of Kansas for my undergraduate degree. I graduated with a B.S. in Cellular Biology before joining the Immunology Ph.D. program at the University of Michigan in 2016. At Michigan, I have been working in the lab of Dr. Malini Raghavan and studying how genetic differences in certain immune genes contribute to varying immunological responses between individuals. We know that people have very different reactions to viruses, bacteria, and cancers, and my project seeks to understand how a specific gene--the human leukocyte antigen class I--contributes to these differences. During my time in both undergrad and graduate school, I have become passionate about both scientific research and education, and aim to pursue a career incorporating both of these elements. Outside of lab, I enjoy cooking, hiking, and sometimes running. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1606232804648-2Z8IM5KX6QOWHSMC5LYR/Pilarheadshot.jpg DFB Instructors - Pilar Rivero-Ríos, Ph.D., Postdoctoral Fellow in Cell & Developmental Biology I received my PhD from the University of Granada (Spain) in 2019. As a graduate student, I investigated the cellular mechanisms that lead to Parkinson’s disease. I am currently a May-Walt Life Sciences Postdoctoral Fellow in the Life Sciences Institute and CDB Department at the University of Michigan. As a postdoc in the Weisman lab, I am exploring new pathways and mechanisms through which altered neuronal biology leads to disease. In my free time, I enjoy travelling, riding my bike, cooking and testing new recipes and playing with my cat. I am greatly looking forward to contributing to the DFB mission! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1606232806622-HQ2FFCQ1GBQ7WWTYSSQF/Isha+Verma.jpg DFB Instructors - Isha Verma, Ph.D., Postdoctoral Fellow in Neurology I am working as a research fellow in the Department of Neurology. My research projects are focused on studying the role of various gene mutations in epilepsy using patient stem cell-derived neural cells and brain organoids, and investigating the efficacy of interneuron transplantation therapy for the treatment of epilepsy. I finished my Ph.D. at the Indian Institute of Science, India, where I worked on the generation, characterization, and enrichment of neural cells from mouse pluripotent stem cells. I also have experience of working as a science writer and editor. I enjoy looking at art, traveling, and exploring different cuisines. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1630521762090-8A1NJ4BHE29I838POJ30/IMG_0763.jpg DFB Instructors - Sarah Steiner, Ph.D. Candidate in Cell and Developmental Biology I earned my B.S. in Chemical Engineering from Cornell University in 2020. I’m currently in my second year of my PhD in Dr. Pierre Coulombe’s lab, studying epithelial differentiation and functional roles for keratins in mechanical stress. During my free time, I love baking, hiking, and caring for my plants. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1646946244320-8SRHDHCUOTJ8BLE4GIR3/image-asset.jpeg DFB Instructors - Danielle T. Porter, Ph.D., Postdoctoral Researcher I earned my B.S. in biology from the University of Alabama (2012), M.Sc. in biology from Louisiana State University (2015) and completed my Ph.D. in Neuroscience from the University of Mississippi Medical Center in 2020. I am currently a Postdoctoral Fellow in the lab of Dr. Roger Cone at the Life Sciences Institute, and I am interested in how the melanocortin system regulates the reproductive axis. When not in the lab, I enjoy hiking, traveling, and spending time with my dog. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1646946404014-KEL9VSK547QY5IJX7Z81/image-asset.png DFB Instructors - Erez Cohen, Ph.D., Postdoctoral Researcher I was born in Israel and did my undergraduate studies in Biological Sciences at the University of Edinburgh, Scotland. I then moved to the US to start my PhD at Duke University, and start a family with my wife Hanna who was pursuing her own PhD at UNC Chapel Hill. I came to UMICH as a postdoc to follow my research interest, understanding how cells respond to stress and injury. At the Coulombe lab, I approach this question by studying how keratins are involved in cellular response to stress. I enjoy video games, hiking, playing with my kids and cooking! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1657572960859-PBJRCR7D064FF69U2PVP/image-asset.jpeg DFB Instructors - Jacqueline Moltzau Anderson, Ph.D., Postdoctoral Researcher I earned my BA at Grinnell College in Iowa and my MSc at the University of Copenhagen in Denmark, before moving to Germany for my PhD at the University of Kiel and the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Biology. During my PhD, I investigated the role of the gut microbiome in modulating health and disease, with a particular focus on Crohn’s disease, a subset of Inflammatory Bowel Disease. I was also interested in understanding and identifying factors contributing to the resilience phenomenon (the ability of the microbial community to recover from a perturbation). As such, I investigated the role of antibiotics and fecal microbial transfers as perturbations on the gut microbiome composed of bacteria, fungi, and viruses. As a current Postdoctoral Fellow in the Schloss Lab, I am investigating the role of the microbiome in colorectal cancer and using Machine Learning to make diagnostic predictions. When not in the lab, I love to swim, explore nature, read, travel, and spend time with my family and friends. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1646946574678-SIERFZ18N8GDMEMDZANV/image-asset.jpeg DFB Instructors - Francisco Gomez-Rivera, M.Sc., Ph.D. Candidate in Immunology Francisco Gomez-Rivera is a proud Puerto Rican and the first in his family to pursue a graduate education in Science. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Natural Science with a major in Biotechnology and Biomedical Sciences at the University of Puerto Rico at Ponce. In 2017, he graduated from The University of Texas at San Antonio with a Master’s degree in Microbiology and Immunology. Francisco is a Ph.D. candidate in the Immunology Graduate Program. Francisco joined Dr. Kathleen Collins lab to study the HIV latency in hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) and the development of new therapeutic approaches to promote immune-mediated clearance of HIV reservoirs. His future plans include spearheading a research laboratory with an active and original research program in infectious diseases, while also being an academic professor helping to shape the newer generations of young scientists in STEM. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1646947136950-MUQ7K3FI7NZCRKQTXPHF/image-asset.png DFB Instructors - Hannah Schrader, Ph.D. Candidate in Cell and Developmental Biology I am a third-year Ph.D. candidate in Dr. Ben Allen's lab within the Department of Cell and Developmental Biology. My research is focused on hedgehog signaling in the developing limb! Outside of the lab I enjoy swimming laps, hanging out with my dog and watching college football. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1679674556326-4PCPWJQC7IXW1FE77T2S/GearYourCareer23%28483%29_square.JPG DFB Instructors - Ethan Hillman, Ph.D., Postdoctoral Researcher I attended Anderson University, a undergraduate university in Indiana, where I majored in Biology and Chemistry. At Anderson, I got my first taste of teaching as a lab assistant and tutor and which lead to me doing research on antimicrobials and using fluorescent proteins as biosensors. After undergrad, I joined Purdue’s Interdisciplinary Life Sciences (PULSe) program where I integrated my interests in Microbiology and Engineering as part of the Agricultural and Biological Engineering department. Our work focused on top-down and bottom-up engineering approaches to control microbial populations for agricultural and energy applications. As a Postdoc in the department of Internal Medicine, I am using similar approaches to develop treatments for various diseases by targeting the gut microbiome. I am fascinated by the extent to which the microbes on our bodies and across the earth affect our everyday lives and my research aims to leverage these microbes as solutions to problem ranging from health to sustainability. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1679674557276-2HN86HJB6LPIOCSTTXZT/Ligia.jpg DFB Instructors - Ligia Buloto Schmitd, Ph.D., Postdoctoral Researcher I got my dental and master’s degrees at the University of Sao Paulo, Brazil. I specialized in the field of Oral Medicine, and conducted my PhD at the Oral Health Sciences Program, University of Michigan School of Dentistry. My PhD work focused on cancer neuroscience, the investigation of nerve-tumor interactions, more specifically in the context of oral cavity cancer. I am currently a postdoctoral fellow at Roman Giger’s lab, where my research focuses on Schwann cell biology in peripheral nervous system injury and regeneration. When I am not following protocols in the lab, I love to follow recipes in the kitchen! I also love traveling and getting to know other cultures. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1679674564357-JOY1UJZFR5VAF7DKCO9A/Lindy.jpg DFB Instructors - Lindy Brastrom, Ph.D., Postdoctoral Researcher I earned my B.S. in Genetics with a Minor in History from Iowa State University (2013) and received my Ph.D. in Integrated Biology with a focus on Developmental Biology from the University of Iowa (2020). I am currently a Postdoctoral Fellow in Dr. Jason Spence’s lab where I study lung disease and development using both patient- and iPSC-derived 3D organoid model systems. Outside of lab, I enjoy glassblowing, crocheting, and watching the Colorado Avalanche hockey team. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1679675623728-RZ2TRIGTOSCAIIE5KWB3/Bell-Hannah.png DFB Instructors - Hannah Bell, Ph.D., Postdoctoral Researcher I completed my undergraduate degree in Microbiology from UCLA in 2017. I then completed my PhD in the lab of Dr. Yatrik Shah at the University of Michigan in 2022, where I studied the interaction between the microbiome, the immune system and cancer. I am now a postdoctoral fellow in the lab of Dr. Weiping Zou at the University of Michigan, where I study how immune cells induce cell death. Outside of lab, I enjoy running marathons, baking cookies, and hanging out with my two dogs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1679674558679-08N1YVMLCROO6NW4OI3R/Ryan.jpg DFB Instructors - Ryan Rebernick, MSTP Student & Ph.D. Candidate Department of Computational Medicine & Bioinformatics I attended the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where I majored in Biochemistry. At Wisconsin, I studied the role of the petidylarginine deaminase enzymes in rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease. Following graduation I completed a 1 year post-bac at the National Institutes of Health and matriculated to the University of Michigan MD/PhD program in 2018. I'm currently a graduate student in the lab of Dr. Marcin Cieslik in the Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics. I am passionate about applying clinical sequencing to improve both our understanding and treatment of cancer. My ultimate goal is to obtain a position as a physician scientist bringing new treatments to patients with high-risk cancer. Outside of lab, I love to run and read fantasy fiction (The Wheel of Time is my favorite). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1660512291907-3QWJGJNXRH49RU412FMW/We+are+recruiting_dp_fgr2022+%282%29.png DFB Instructors - Call for Instructor Applications DFB is now accepting instructor applications! Graduate students and postdocs from all departments & disciplines of the University of Michigan who are interested in teaching are encouraged to apply! Just scan the QR code to start your application. Or you can use this link to apply: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSehJNs32-7LI75NlFpGzmadIh82cPt60GfZ3-SCyV4jFJQ3tw/viewform Applications close on September 16th, 2022. To learn more, join us for an info session on August 22 at the BSRB at 1:00pm. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1698889436522-F1T2YXWCNRBKK72VDE4J/image-asset.jpeg DFB Instructors - Afnan Alzamrooni, Postdoctoral Fellow in Internal Medicine I completed my master's degree in clinical pharmacy where I developed a great interest in the cardiovascular pharmacology. Driven by curiosity, I then pursued my PhD studies in developmental biology where my primary research interest was understanding how the avian model develops early on during embryogenesis with a focus on cardiac development. I currently hold a postdoctoral research position at Michigan Medicine where I aspire to explore my research interests in cardiac regeneration and develop innovative treatment modalities that can improve patient outcomes. I have a strong commitment to education and mentorship, and I believe in its power to shape the future of science. My mentorship has inspired and guided students to realize their full potential and has led to the successful education of many budding scientists. Outside of my professional life, I enjoy volunteering, traveling, and engaging in various activities that allow me to give back to my community and serve those in need. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1698889604441-5LLTZPPCTUP6C3NOGAAV/image-asset.png DFB Instructors - Tasmine Clement, PhD Candidate in Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics I completed my undergraduate degree in Biology from the University of Notre Dame. I came to the University of Michigan to pursue master's degrees in Molecular Biology and Bioinformatics and I am currently a PhD student in the Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics. When not in the lab, I enjoy eating, sleeping, and spending time with my dog. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1698889688074-LUH2BPW7QLU8KLPBFT3H/image-asset.jpeg DFB Instructors - Joanna Lum, PhD Candidate in Molecular & Cellular Pathology I completed my undergraduate degree in Biological Sciences at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC). I am currently a PhD candidate in the Venneti Lab at the University of Michigan, where I study epigenetic and metabolic drivers of pediatric brian cancers. Outside of the lab, I enjoy lifting, rock climbing, and spending time with my dog Indie! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1698889778153-6INE177681EXB4BJBHED/unnamed.jpg DFB Instructors - Previous Instructors Find our previous instructors at the History of DFB tab. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1729116778316-7TIKHUGMVVMR5QBE2DEI/IG_headshot.jpg DFB Instructors - Ila Ghoshal, PhD Candidate in Cellular and Developmental Biology I earned my Bachelor's in Computer Science and Biology at McGill University in Montreal, Canada. During this time, I participated in research projects where I got to explore the topics of cell mechanics and cell migration. I was fascinated by cell migration and decided to do my Master's at McGill investigating the signaling dynamics of migrating cells. I am currently a third-year PhD student in Cell and Developmental Biology at the University of Michigan. In the Pearring Lab, I study the role of a centriolar protein, CEP162, in retinal development. Outside of the lab, I enjoy trying new recipes, running, Pilates and travelling. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1729264631159-HS1KDH20BO10QQRWLWWH/MPHOTO-MM_PIBSHds_24Aug23_EK_84.JPG DFB Instructors - Gabriel Jimenez-Pagan, PhD Pre-Candidate in Cellular and Molecular Biology I completed my bachelor's degree in Industrial Biotechnology at the University of Puerto Rico - Mayagüez Campus in 2023. As an undergraduate student, I worked under the mentorship of Dr. Carlos Rios-Velazquez working towards identifying novel CRISPR-Cas systems using metagenomic libraries generated from diverse environments around Puerto Rico. During the summers I participated in research in a broader range of fields from bacteriophages to cancer biology and epigenetics. This last experience really cemented my desire to go to graduate school and pursue research. I am currently a PhD student in the Cellular and Molecular Biology Program at the University of Michigan studying how certain stresses shape the innate immune system and their effect on host defense against pathogens. Outside of research I enjoy watching movies, being outdoors, and hanging out with my cat! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1729264975789-FZ1MRGQFAIVNVEQZIZUA/IMG_5005.jpg DFB Instructors - Mariana Tannus Ruckert, Postdoctoral Fellow in Molecular and Integrative Physiology I was born and raised in Brazil, and I’m incredibly proud of my roots! I graduated as a Biomedical Scientist at the Federal University of Minas Gerais, and later obtained my M.S. and Ph.D. in Genetics from the University of Sao Paulo. I also developed part of my studies at the University of Kansas Medical Center as a Fulbright Doctoral Dissertation Research Award grantee. Then, I focused on understanding the role of dual-specificity phosphatases in pancreatic cancer. Now, as a Postdoctoral Fellow in the Lyssiotis Lab, I’m interested in the role of mitochondrial metabolism in pancreatic cancer initiation. Outside the lab, I enjoy running, going to live concerts, having beers with friends in a sunny afternoon and staying home with my cat. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1729265188351-ZMU4XAPHD1TFCHPYBID1/IMG_20241015_153655+copy.jpg DFB Instructors - Emily Wang, PhD Pre-Candidate in Molecular Cellular and Developmental Biology I received my B.S. from the University of Michigan in 2021 in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, completing my honors thesis on the role of ER-mitochondrial and ER-peroxisomal contact sites in ER stress response. Following this, I was a technician in Dr. Scott Leiser's lab studying aging in C. elegans. Now, I am pursuing a PhD in Cell and Developmental Biology in the lab of Dr. Billy Tsai, studying how misfolded protein substrates induce cytosolic autophagy events. Outside of the lab, I love to paint, sew, and try new restaurants! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1729265497139-ZM4AUYK6HAP3NJ5NKL2H/Collin+Coon+Photo.jpg DFB Instructors - Collin Coon, PhD Pre-Candidate in Cancer Biology Collin graduated from Colorado State University with a B.S. in Honors Biology and minors in Mathematical Biology and Japanese in May 2021. His undergraduate research focused on methane leak tracking in the lab of Joe von Fischer. Following his graduation, he worked for a year at the United State Air Force Academy’s Biology Department, where he served as a mentor to their iGEM team and conducted research on PFAS contaminates. In July 2022, he moved to Bloomington, Indiana to work as a lab manager in the lab of Kenneth Nephew. In the Nephew lab he studied ovarian cancer stem cells and the functional role of ZNFX1 in ovarian cancer tumorigenesis. He is now interested in tumor recursion and drug resistance in cancer. Out of lab Collin enjoys cooking, getting outdoors for hiking or sports, and playing board games, Magic the Gathering, and D&D. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1729277229261-31OF763BVKEAFXAYDX9K/Amanda.jpg DFB Instructors - Amanda Linskens, PhD Candidate in Cellular and Molecular Biology I’m currently a 3rd year PhD student in Dr. Swathi Yadlapalli’s lab through the Cellular and Molecular Biology program. I earned my bachelor's degree in Biochemistry from the University of Oregon, and it's here that I became interested in how genes are regulated in the brain to control functional outputs. This led me to pursue a PhD at the University of Michigan, where, in my first few years, I mentored several undergraduate students in the lab. These mentorships helped me solidify my proclivity for teaching, especially in a lab setting. My thesis project aims to understand how temperature regulates alternative splicing in neurons to control sleep behavior in fruit flies. In my spare time, I enjoy paddleboarding, baking, and watching football. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1729277321823-4CZLBXHLL0DWUPAHTAYO/PM_DFB.jpg DFB Instructors - Pavithra Mahadevan, PhD Candidate in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology Pavithra completed her Masters from Heidelberg University, Germany and is currently a 4th year PhD student in Dr. Ursula Jakob's lab at the University of Michigan. In the lab, she investigates the role of polyphosphates in amyloidogenic processes and neurodegeneration. If not seen bopping around the lab with her headphones on, she can be found on a quest to find good coffee, plants and food. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1762965134046-S7I03ZBTPQOLO0X9WYEV/image+%281%29.png DFB Instructors - Jacob Horn, PhD Candidate in Cellular and Molecular Biology I graduated from the Rochester Institute of Technology in 2021 and then worked as a lab technician for two years at the University of Rochester studying mitochondrial bioenergetics. I am now a third year Cellular and Molecular Biology student studying how 5′ UTRs of viral RNAs affect translation initiation and how they interact with viral proteins. Outside of lab I enjoy reading, drawing, and cooking. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1762969072040-EFQ8FEY1SLHZKNXT2DH7/Picture1.jpg DFB Instructors - Shelby Sliger, PhD Pre-Candidate in Cancer Biology Shelby graduated with honors from Purdue University with a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry and minors in bioinformatics and professional writing in May of 2025. Shelby conducted her undergraduate research on chromatin remodeling and histone variant proteins in Arabidopsis under the mentorship of Dr. Joe Ogas. After graduation, Shelby was a teaching assistant and residential mentor for the Summer Science Program in Biochemistry where she taught high school students how to purify proteins and conduct enzyme assays. At the University of Michigan, Shelby is interested in studying epigenetics and transcriptomics in pediatric cancer. Outside of the lab, Shelby enjoys reading fantasy books, listening to Taylor Swift, and playing with her cat Arwen. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1762966359918-8FCD4CPD9ROXV3LKUN1Z/Arya_Menon_low+res.jpg DFB Instructors - Arya Menon, PhD Student in Chemical Biology I earned my undergraduate and master’s degrees in Biotechnology in India, followed by a master’s in Molecular and Developmental Biology at the University of Colorado Boulder. I then joined Dr. Amanda Garner’s lab in the Department of Medicinal Chemistry at the University of Michigan as a Research Specialist, where I contributed to the development of innovative small molecules targeting cancer. After a decade-long hiatus, I returned to graduate school and am now a fourth-year Ph.D. student in Dr. Stephanie Moon’s lab (Program in Chemical Biology). My research focuses on how the loss of proteostasis during aging and neurodegeneration intersects with the integrated stress response. Outside the lab, I enjoy spending quality time with my friends and family. As a scientist and mother, I value hard work, patience, and resilience—qualities that shape my work in the lab and my life beyond it. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1762966439502-IOD2FLRNWPOSHR2P11JF/Erin_Jenson_Headshot.jpg DFB Instructors - Erin Jenson, PhD student in Cellular and Molecular Biology I completed my bachelor's degree in Biology in 2021 from Carleton College in Northfield, Minnesota. I then moved back to my home state of Utah for three years where I worked as a lab technician at the University of Utah studying the mechanisms that ensure accurate chromosome segregation during cell division. I am currently a second year PhD student in the Cellular and Molecular Biology program in the lab of Dr. Kristen Verhey. My thesis project focuses on post-translational modifications to the microtubules that make up the mitotic spindle and how they promote accurate cell division. Outside of lab I enjoy hiking, reading, and crochet! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1762966502421-4ZXG2K5UYMVRYJQ5MWX1/IMG_6585.jpeg DFB Instructors - Emily Seiden, Postdoctoral Fellow My name is Emily Seiden and I am a postdoctoral fellow in Patrick Grohar's lab. I study pediatric bone tumors and we use both cell culture and animal models to discover and repurpose drugs for use in the clinic. Currently, we are beginning a canine clinical trial for dogs with osteosarcoma. For undergrad, I went to The University of Alabama in Huntsville. I majored in biology and chemistry, participated in tutoring and also ran the film club. My PhD training was done at Indiana University School of Medicine and my degree was in Anatomy and Cell Biology. Throughout my PhD I pursued teaching in histology and also designed a workshop to teach grad students how to be effective TAs. Outside of lab, I am a competitive powerlifter. I also have a dog, Jessa, who loves long walks and playing with new friends. I also just got married to my husband Richard on Oct 11th at the Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville, AL. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1762966548297-IDSMKZSL3ZFNODMI3S28/Picture2.png DFB Instructors - Rocio Cisneros, PhD Candidate in Cellular and Molecular Biology I’m Rocìo Cisneros, originally from East Oakland, California, and a PhD candidate at the University of Michigan. My research focuses on looking at the intersection of lysosomes and lipids. Outside the lab, you’ll find me reading, exploring the U.S. National Parks like Joshua Tree and hunting down great coffee. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1762966588773-H59BG6PAVUJP8W7DGD8T/thumbnail_Saranyaraajan+Varadarajan.jpg DFB Instructors - Saranyaraajan Varadarajan, Postdoctoral Fellow in the Department of Pathology I am a postdoctoral fellow in the Department of Pathology studying how cells sense and repair damage in tissues like the gut. My work explores how the intestinal lining heals after injury and inflammation, which is important for understanding diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease. I love using microscopy to watch cells respond to stress in real time and finding new ways to strengthen our body’s natural repair systems. Outside the lab, I enjoy spending time with my partner, hiking, yoga and sharing science with the community. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1762966666600-8XOX84SYITKGQ80OQ99H/MPHOTO-PIBS-Hds24%2812%29_.jpg DFB Instructors - Rachel Dziekan, PhD Student in Cellular and Molecular Biology I am a second-year graduate student in the Cellular and Molecular Biology Program. I work in the labs of Michelle Hastings and Rachel Niederer. My thesis work is focused on investigating the use of ASOs for people with Cystic Fibrosis who are not amenable to currently available therapeutics. When not in the lab, I enjoy gardening, knitting, and baking. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1762967064214-AFTJ7DOZ7ZHCCHS2RFCJ/HSW_headshot.png DFB Instructors - Helen S. Washington, Ph.D. Candidate in Biological Chemistry My name is Helen Washington and I am currently a 2nd year Ph.D. Candidate in Biological Chemistry at the University of Michigan! I went to Mount Holyoke College for undergrad where I graduated with my B.A. in Biochemistry in May of 2024. I am originally from Baltimore, Maryland and my favorite thing to do there is go to the Barnes and Noble by the harbor in the inner city. Here at the UofM, I am co-mentored by Dr. Michelle Hastings and Dr. Sonya Wolf-Fortune in the Pharmacology department. My project focuses on studying the expression of inflammasome complexes in psoriasis and developing a psoriasis antisense oligonucleotide to target these inflammasomes for therapeutic benefit. Aside from science, some of my hobbies include knitting, drawing, watching movies, and listening to music! I am very excited to be an instructor for DFB! https://www.developingfuturebiologists.com/what-we-do daily 0.75 2019-01-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1547518488314-AZ1TBZU4AOSRPM77VP62/IMG_2695.JPG What We Do - Week-Long Developmental Biology Short Course at The University of Michigan Interactive Lectures Receive a comprehensive education of basic concepts in the field of developmental biology. Experience active learning environments taught by leaders in the field of developmental biology at a 3:1 student to instructor ratio. Hands-On Labs Expand your practical research skills in a fully-functional developmental biology laboratory. Gain an in-depth understanding of the model organisms and cutting-edge techniques used in modern research labs. Networking Opportunities Grow your academic and professional network through one-on-one advising, career development workshops, and special lectures. Form long-term mentorships with DFB Instructors, who can help you advance to the next step in your career. https://www.developingfuturebiologists.com/introduction daily 0.75 2019-01-15 https://www.developingfuturebiologists.com/banner daily 0.75 2017-10-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1547517471878-6N1TRADZ5FDLW9TYS1P3/20180519083239_IMG_7007.JPG Banner https://www.developingfuturebiologists.com/mission-1 daily 0.75 2017-10-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/59dbc7c2cf81e0c47e15482d/1509982161912-TROPQF7917INCAJZG54V/_50A4149.jpg Mission https://www.developingfuturebiologists.com/press-quote daily 0.75 2019-01-15 https://www.developingfuturebiologists.com/home daily 0.75 2019-01-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/573cc03cc2ea51f428cb5dd6/1470092977225-50P98KC41C7C07JVYJV3/image-asset.jpeg Home - Our Practice Description text. Proin gravida ex id consectetur lobortis. Aliquam ornare, velit vel faucibus dapibus, augue justo ullamcorper turpis. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1547661215687-8IZFMLI90GJFOCH4PPO9/20180519083239_IMG_7007.jpg Home - DFB Class of 2018 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/573cc03cc2ea51f428cb5dd6/1494428317951-R5DJD7STX2TGR03B66PV/20130731_Trade+100_0202.jpg Home - A Top 10 Service Here is a description of what makes your company unique. Pellentesque habitant ulcit mori netus et malesuada netus et malesuada. https://www.developingfuturebiologists.com/home-1 daily 1.0 2025-11-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1547925201294-EAEEUFQB0QP4VQH5DF2T/20180519072515_IMG_6989.JPG Home - Interactive Lectures Receive a comprehensive education of the basic concepts from leaders in the field of developmental biology. Experience active learning environments at a 2:1 student to instructor ratio. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1548279642049-EXZG741VCRW1KHAG9U8R/benallen_1.jpg Home - Ben Allen, Ph.D., Associate Professor Cell & Developmental Biology https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1548039281045-5VDELJ4FQPTTB1GLI4EH/scott_barolo_headshot.png Home - Scott Barolo, Ph.D. Associate Professor of Cell & Developmental Biology https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1548039347135-GU0LK0R9ZR76M93QFVR1/LauraB_headshot.jpg Home - Laura Buttitta, Ph.D. Associate Professor of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology I enjoyed reading science fiction as a high school student and became interested in biology as a “pre-med” undergraduate. After a summer of research in a chemistry lab my sophomore year, I decided to abandon my plans for medical school, and apply to graduate school instead. I obtained my Ph.D. from Johns Hopkins University in Developmental Biology in 2004. I then joined Dr. Bruce Edgar's lab as a postdoctoral researcher at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center. There I began using Drosophila (fruit flies) as a model system to study developmental control of cell cycle regulation. My lab at U. Michigan opened in Jan. 2011 and uses Drosophila to study how the cell cycle is regulated during development. I also teach half of the U. Michigan undergraduate Developmental Biology course (Bio 205). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1630521129598-UXMV909K16LFL8OWE6LY/Kelsey%2BTemprine%2Bheadshot.jpg Home - Kelsey Temprine, Ph.D., Postdoctoral Fellow in Molecular & Integrative Physiology I earned my B.S. in Biology from the University of Texas at Austin before heading off to Washington, D.C. to work as a postbac at the NIH. I then moved to NYC where I completed my Ph.D. in Cancer Biology at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in 2018. My PhD work used human cell culture and zebrafish models to study drug resistance in melanoma (a type of skin cancer). I am currently a Postdoctoral Research Fellow in the Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology and the Cancer Biology Program. I am currently investigating how sugar metabolism promotes the activation of signaling pathways essential for colon cancer as well as determining the role of red blood cells in colon cancer progression. When not in the lab, I enjoy eating ice cream (butter pecan is my favorite flavor!), combining my loves of science and crafting, and hiking as much as possible. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1630522200405-CM4KLDL1F6MDKYBVFYKS/Fatima%2BJaved.jpg Home - Fatima Javed, Ph.D. Candidate in Cell & Developmental Biology I am a fourth year PhD candidate in the department of Cell & Developmental Biology. I work in Dr. Carole Parent's lab studying to understand how our immune cells get to the site of injury or infection. Outside of the lab, I enjoy talking about science, reading fiction novels, hanging out with friends and family and cuddling with my cat. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1606232745827-N1FHKJBQ5A0ZJVRXSJYX/Eli+Olson.jpg Home - Eli Olson, Ph.D. Candidate in Immunology I grew up in the Kansas City area, and attended the University of Kansas for my undergraduate degree. I graduated with a B.S. in Cellular Biology before joining the Immunology Ph.D. program at the University of Michigan in 2016. At Michigan, I have been working in the lab of Dr. Malini Raghavan and studying how genetic differences in certain immune genes contribute to varying immunological responses between individuals. We know that people have very different reactions to viruses, bacteria, and cancers, and my project seeks to understand how a specific gene--the human leukocyte antigen class I--contributes to these differences. During my time in both undergrad and graduate school, I have become passionate about both scientific research and education, and aim to pursue a career incorporating both of these elements. Outside of lab, I enjoy cooking, hiking, and sometimes running. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1606232804648-2Z8IM5KX6QOWHSMC5LYR/Pilarheadshot.jpg Home - Pilar Rivero-Ríos, Ph.D., Postdoctoral Fellow in Cell & Developmental Biology I received my PhD from the University of Granada (Spain) in 2019. As a graduate student, I investigated the cellular mechanisms that lead to Parkinson’s disease. I am currently a May-Walt Life Sciences Postdoctoral Fellow in the Life Sciences Institute and CDB Department at the University of Michigan. As a postdoc in the Weisman lab, I am exploring new pathways and mechanisms through which altered neuronal biology leads to disease. In my free time, I enjoy travelling, riding my bike, cooking and testing new recipes and playing with my cat. I am greatly looking forward to contributing to the DFB mission! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1606232806622-HQ2FFCQ1GBQ7WWTYSSQF/Isha+Verma.jpg Home - Isha Verma, Ph.D., Postdoctoral Fellow in Neurology I am working as a research fellow in the Department of Neurology. My research projects are focused on studying the role of various gene mutations in epilepsy using patient stem cell-derived neural cells and brain organoids, and investigating the efficacy of interneuron transplantation therapy for the treatment of epilepsy. I finished my Ph.D. at the Indian Institute of Science, India, where I worked on the generation, characterization, and enrichment of neural cells from mouse pluripotent stem cells. I also have experience of working as a science writer and editor. I enjoy looking at art, traveling, and exploring different cuisines. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1630521762090-8A1NJ4BHE29I838POJ30/IMG_0763.jpg Home - Sarah Steiner, Ph.D. Candidate in Cell and Developmental Biology I earned my B.S. in Chemical Engineering from Cornell University in 2020. I’m currently in my second year of my PhD in Dr. Pierre Coulombe’s lab, studying epithelial differentiation and functional roles for keratins in mechanical stress. During my free time, I love baking, hiking, and caring for my plants. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1646946244320-8SRHDHCUOTJ8BLE4GIR3/image-asset.jpeg Home - Danielle T. Porter, Ph.D., Postdoctoral Researcher I earned my B.S. in biology from the University of Alabama (2012), M.Sc. in biology from Louisiana State University (2015) and completed my Ph.D. in Neuroscience from the University of Mississippi Medical Center in 2020. I am currently a Postdoctoral Fellow in the lab of Dr. Roger Cone at the Life Sciences Institute, and I am interested in how the melanocortin system regulates the reproductive axis. When not in the lab, I enjoy hiking, traveling, and spending time with my dog. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1646946404014-KEL9VSK547QY5IJX7Z81/image-asset.png Home - Erez Cohen, Ph.D., Postdoctoral Researcher I was born in Israel and did my undergraduate studies in Biological Sciences at the University of Edinburgh, Scotland. I then moved to the US to start my PhD at Duke University, and start a family with my wife Hanna who was pursuing her own PhD at UNC Chapel Hill. I came to UMICH as a postdoc to follow my research interest, understanding how cells respond to stress and injury. At the Coulombe lab, I approach this question by studying how keratins are involved in cellular response to stress. I enjoy video games, hiking, playing with my kids and cooking! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1657572960859-PBJRCR7D064FF69U2PVP/image-asset.jpeg Home - Jacqueline Moltzau Anderson, Ph.D., Postdoctoral Researcher I earned my BA at Grinnell College in Iowa and my MSc at the University of Copenhagen in Denmark, before moving to Germany for my PhD at the University of Kiel and the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Biology. During my PhD, I investigated the role of the gut microbiome in modulating health and disease, with a particular focus on Crohn’s disease, a subset of Inflammatory Bowel Disease. I was also interested in understanding and identifying factors contributing to the resilience phenomenon (the ability of the microbial community to recover from a perturbation). As such, I investigated the role of antibiotics and fecal microbial transfers as perturbations on the gut microbiome composed of bacteria, fungi, and viruses. As a current Postdoctoral Fellow in the Schloss Lab, I am investigating the role of the microbiome in colorectal cancer and using Machine Learning to make diagnostic predictions. When not in the lab, I love to swim, explore nature, read, travel, and spend time with my family and friends. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1646946574678-SIERFZ18N8GDMEMDZANV/image-asset.jpeg Home - Francisco Gomez-Rivera, M.Sc., Ph.D. Candidate in Immunology Francisco Gomez-Rivera is a proud Puerto Rican and the first in his family to pursue a graduate education in Science. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Natural Science with a major in Biotechnology and Biomedical Sciences at the University of Puerto Rico at Ponce. In 2017, he graduated from The University of Texas at San Antonio with a Master’s degree in Microbiology and Immunology. Francisco is a Ph.D. candidate in the Immunology Graduate Program. Francisco joined Dr. Kathleen Collins lab to study the HIV latency in hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) and the development of new therapeutic approaches to promote immune-mediated clearance of HIV reservoirs. His future plans include spearheading a research laboratory with an active and original research program in infectious diseases, while also being an academic professor helping to shape the newer generations of young scientists in STEM. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1646947136950-MUQ7K3FI7NZCRKQTXPHF/image-asset.png Home - Hannah Schrader, Ph.D. Candidate in Cell and Developmental Biology I am a third-year Ph.D. candidate in Dr. Ben Allen's lab within the Department of Cell and Developmental Biology. My research is focused on hedgehog signaling in the developing limb! Outside of the lab I enjoy swimming laps, hanging out with my dog and watching college football. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1679674556326-4PCPWJQC7IXW1FE77T2S/GearYourCareer23%28483%29_square.JPG Home - Ethan Hillman, Ph.D., Postdoctoral Researcher I attended Anderson University, a undergraduate university in Indiana, where I majored in Biology and Chemistry. At Anderson, I got my first taste of teaching as a lab assistant and tutor and which lead to me doing research on antimicrobials and using fluorescent proteins as biosensors. After undergrad, I joined Purdue’s Interdisciplinary Life Sciences (PULSe) program where I integrated my interests in Microbiology and Engineering as part of the Agricultural and Biological Engineering department. Our work focused on top-down and bottom-up engineering approaches to control microbial populations for agricultural and energy applications. As a Postdoc in the department of Internal Medicine, I am using similar approaches to develop treatments for various diseases by targeting the gut microbiome. I am fascinated by the extent to which the microbes on our bodies and across the earth affect our everyday lives and my research aims to leverage these microbes as solutions to problem ranging from health to sustainability. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1679674557276-2HN86HJB6LPIOCSTTXZT/Ligia.jpg Home - Ligia Buloto Schmitd, Ph.D., Postdoctoral Researcher I got my dental and master’s degrees at the University of Sao Paulo, Brazil. I specialized in the field of Oral Medicine, and conducted my PhD at the Oral Health Sciences Program, University of Michigan School of Dentistry. My PhD work focused on cancer neuroscience, the investigation of nerve-tumor interactions, more specifically in the context of oral cavity cancer. I am currently a postdoctoral fellow at Roman Giger’s lab, where my research focuses on Schwann cell biology in peripheral nervous system injury and regeneration. When I am not following protocols in the lab, I love to follow recipes in the kitchen! I also love traveling and getting to know other cultures. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1679674564357-JOY1UJZFR5VAF7DKCO9A/Lindy.jpg Home - Lindy Brastrom, Ph.D., Postdoctoral Researcher I earned my B.S. in Genetics with a Minor in History from Iowa State University (2013) and received my Ph.D. in Integrated Biology with a focus on Developmental Biology from the University of Iowa (2020). I am currently a Postdoctoral Fellow in Dr. Jason Spence’s lab where I study lung disease and development using both patient- and iPSC-derived 3D organoid model systems. Outside of lab, I enjoy glassblowing, crocheting, and watching the Colorado Avalanche hockey team. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1679675623728-RZ2TRIGTOSCAIIE5KWB3/Bell-Hannah.png Home - Hannah Bell, Ph.D., Postdoctoral Researcher I completed my undergraduate degree in Microbiology from UCLA in 2017. I then completed my PhD in the lab of Dr. Yatrik Shah at the University of Michigan in 2022, where I studied the interaction between the microbiome, the immune system and cancer. I am now a postdoctoral fellow in the lab of Dr. Weiping Zou at the University of Michigan, where I study how immune cells induce cell death. Outside of lab, I enjoy running marathons, baking cookies, and hanging out with my two dogs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1679674558679-08N1YVMLCROO6NW4OI3R/Ryan.jpg Home - Ryan Rebernick, MSTP Student & Ph.D. Candidate Department of Computational Medicine & Bioinformatics I attended the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where I majored in Biochemistry. At Wisconsin, I studied the role of the petidylarginine deaminase enzymes in rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease. Following graduation I completed a 1 year post-bac at the National Institutes of Health and matriculated to the University of Michigan MD/PhD program in 2018. I'm currently a graduate student in the lab of Dr. Marcin Cieslik in the Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics. I am passionate about applying clinical sequencing to improve both our understanding and treatment of cancer. My ultimate goal is to obtain a position as a physician scientist bringing new treatments to patients with high-risk cancer. Outside of lab, I love to run and read fantasy fiction (The Wheel of Time is my favorite). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1660512291907-3QWJGJNXRH49RU412FMW/We+are+recruiting_dp_fgr2022+%282%29.png Home - Call for Instructor Applications DFB is now accepting instructor applications! Graduate students and postdocs from all departments & disciplines of the University of Michigan who are interested in teaching are encouraged to apply! Just scan the QR code to start your application. Or you can use this link to apply: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSehJNs32-7LI75NlFpGzmadIh82cPt60GfZ3-SCyV4jFJQ3tw/viewform Applications close on September 16th, 2022. To learn more, join us for an info session on August 22 at the BSRB at 1:00pm. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1698889436522-F1T2YXWCNRBKK72VDE4J/image-asset.jpeg Home - Afnan Alzamrooni, Postdoctoral Fellow in Internal Medicine I completed my master's degree in clinical pharmacy where I developed a great interest in the cardiovascular pharmacology. Driven by curiosity, I then pursued my PhD studies in developmental biology where my primary research interest was understanding how the avian model develops early on during embryogenesis with a focus on cardiac development. I currently hold a postdoctoral research position at Michigan Medicine where I aspire to explore my research interests in cardiac regeneration and develop innovative treatment modalities that can improve patient outcomes. I have a strong commitment to education and mentorship, and I believe in its power to shape the future of science. My mentorship has inspired and guided students to realize their full potential and has led to the successful education of many budding scientists. Outside of my professional life, I enjoy volunteering, traveling, and engaging in various activities that allow me to give back to my community and serve those in need. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1698889604441-5LLTZPPCTUP6C3NOGAAV/image-asset.png Home - Tasmine Clement, PhD Candidate in Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics I completed my undergraduate degree in Biology from the University of Notre Dame. I came to the University of Michigan to pursue master's degrees in Molecular Biology and Bioinformatics and I am currently a PhD student in the Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics. When not in the lab, I enjoy eating, sleeping, and spending time with my dog. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1698889688074-LUH2BPW7QLU8KLPBFT3H/image-asset.jpeg Home - Joanna Lum, PhD Candidate in Molecular & Cellular Pathology I completed my undergraduate degree in Biological Sciences at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC). I am currently a PhD candidate in the Venneti Lab at the University of Michigan, where I study epigenetic and metabolic drivers of pediatric brian cancers. Outside of the lab, I enjoy lifting, rock climbing, and spending time with my dog Indie! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1698889778153-6INE177681EXB4BJBHED/unnamed.jpg Home - Previous Instructors Find our previous instructors at the History of DFB tab. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1729116778316-7TIKHUGMVVMR5QBE2DEI/IG_headshot.jpg Home - Ila Ghoshal, PhD Candidate in Cellular and Developmental Biology I earned my Bachelor's in Computer Science and Biology at McGill University in Montreal, Canada. During this time, I participated in research projects where I got to explore the topics of cell mechanics and cell migration. I was fascinated by cell migration and decided to do my Master's at McGill investigating the signaling dynamics of migrating cells. I am currently a third-year PhD student in Cell and Developmental Biology at the University of Michigan. In the Pearring Lab, I study the role of a centriolar protein, CEP162, in retinal development. Outside of the lab, I enjoy trying new recipes, running, Pilates and travelling. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1729264631159-HS1KDH20BO10QQRWLWWH/MPHOTO-MM_PIBSHds_24Aug23_EK_84.JPG Home - Gabriel Jimenez-Pagan, PhD Pre-Candidate in Cellular and Molecular Biology I completed my bachelor's degree in Industrial Biotechnology at the University of Puerto Rico - Mayagüez Campus in 2023. As an undergraduate student, I worked under the mentorship of Dr. Carlos Rios-Velazquez working towards identifying novel CRISPR-Cas systems using metagenomic libraries generated from diverse environments around Puerto Rico. During the summers I participated in research in a broader range of fields from bacteriophages to cancer biology and epigenetics. This last experience really cemented my desire to go to graduate school and pursue research. I am currently a PhD student in the Cellular and Molecular Biology Program at the University of Michigan studying how certain stresses shape the innate immune system and their effect on host defense against pathogens. Outside of research I enjoy watching movies, being outdoors, and hanging out with my cat! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1729264975789-FZ1MRGQFAIVNVEQZIZUA/IMG_5005.jpg Home - Mariana Tannus Ruckert, Postdoctoral Fellow in Molecular and Integrative Physiology I was born and raised in Brazil, and I’m incredibly proud of my roots! I graduated as a Biomedical Scientist at the Federal University of Minas Gerais, and later obtained my M.S. and Ph.D. in Genetics from the University of Sao Paulo. I also developed part of my studies at the University of Kansas Medical Center as a Fulbright Doctoral Dissertation Research Award grantee. Then, I focused on understanding the role of dual-specificity phosphatases in pancreatic cancer. Now, as a Postdoctoral Fellow in the Lyssiotis Lab, I’m interested in the role of mitochondrial metabolism in pancreatic cancer initiation. Outside the lab, I enjoy running, going to live concerts, having beers with friends in a sunny afternoon and staying home with my cat. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1729265188351-ZMU4XAPHD1TFCHPYBID1/IMG_20241015_153655+copy.jpg Home - Emily Wang, PhD Pre-Candidate in Molecular Cellular and Developmental Biology I received my B.S. from the University of Michigan in 2021 in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, completing my honors thesis on the role of ER-mitochondrial and ER-peroxisomal contact sites in ER stress response. Following this, I was a technician in Dr. Scott Leiser's lab studying aging in C. elegans. Now, I am pursuing a PhD in Cell and Developmental Biology in the lab of Dr. Billy Tsai, studying how misfolded protein substrates induce cytosolic autophagy events. Outside of the lab, I love to paint, sew, and try new restaurants! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1729265497139-ZM4AUYK6HAP3NJ5NKL2H/Collin+Coon+Photo.jpg Home - Collin Coon, PhD Pre-Candidate in Cancer Biology Collin graduated from Colorado State University with a B.S. in Honors Biology and minors in Mathematical Biology and Japanese in May 2021. His undergraduate research focused on methane leak tracking in the lab of Joe von Fischer. Following his graduation, he worked for a year at the United State Air Force Academy’s Biology Department, where he served as a mentor to their iGEM team and conducted research on PFAS contaminates. In July 2022, he moved to Bloomington, Indiana to work as a lab manager in the lab of Kenneth Nephew. In the Nephew lab he studied ovarian cancer stem cells and the functional role of ZNFX1 in ovarian cancer tumorigenesis. He is now interested in tumor recursion and drug resistance in cancer. Out of lab Collin enjoys cooking, getting outdoors for hiking or sports, and playing board games, Magic the Gathering, and D&D. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1729277229261-31OF763BVKEAFXAYDX9K/Amanda.jpg Home - Amanda Linskens, PhD Candidate in Cellular and Molecular Biology I’m currently a 3rd year PhD student in Dr. Swathi Yadlapalli’s lab through the Cellular and Molecular Biology program. I earned my bachelor's degree in Biochemistry from the University of Oregon, and it's here that I became interested in how genes are regulated in the brain to control functional outputs. This led me to pursue a PhD at the University of Michigan, where, in my first few years, I mentored several undergraduate students in the lab. These mentorships helped me solidify my proclivity for teaching, especially in a lab setting. My thesis project aims to understand how temperature regulates alternative splicing in neurons to control sleep behavior in fruit flies. In my spare time, I enjoy paddleboarding, baking, and watching football. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1729277321823-4CZLBXHLL0DWUPAHTAYO/PM_DFB.jpg Home - Pavithra Mahadevan, PhD Candidate in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology Pavithra completed her Masters from Heidelberg University, Germany and is currently a 4th year PhD student in Dr. Ursula Jakob's lab at the University of Michigan. In the lab, she investigates the role of polyphosphates in amyloidogenic processes and neurodegeneration. If not seen bopping around the lab with her headphones on, she can be found on a quest to find good coffee, plants and food. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1762965134046-S7I03ZBTPQOLO0X9WYEV/image+%281%29.png Home - Jacob Horn, PhD Candidate in Cellular and Molecular Biology I graduated from the Rochester Institute of Technology in 2021 and then worked as a lab technician for two years at the University of Rochester studying mitochondrial bioenergetics. I am now a third year Cellular and Molecular Biology student studying how 5′ UTRs of viral RNAs affect translation initiation and how they interact with viral proteins. Outside of lab I enjoy reading, drawing, and cooking. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1762969072040-EFQ8FEY1SLHZKNXT2DH7/Picture1.jpg Home - Shelby Sliger, PhD Pre-Candidate in Cancer Biology Shelby graduated with honors from Purdue University with a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry and minors in bioinformatics and professional writing in May of 2025. Shelby conducted her undergraduate research on chromatin remodeling and histone variant proteins in Arabidopsis under the mentorship of Dr. Joe Ogas. After graduation, Shelby was a teaching assistant and residential mentor for the Summer Science Program in Biochemistry where she taught high school students how to purify proteins and conduct enzyme assays. At the University of Michigan, Shelby is interested in studying epigenetics and transcriptomics in pediatric cancer. Outside of the lab, Shelby enjoys reading fantasy books, listening to Taylor Swift, and playing with her cat Arwen. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1762966359918-8FCD4CPD9ROXV3LKUN1Z/Arya_Menon_low+res.jpg Home - Arya Menon, PhD Student in Chemical Biology I earned my undergraduate and master’s degrees in Biotechnology in India, followed by a master’s in Molecular and Developmental Biology at the University of Colorado Boulder. I then joined Dr. Amanda Garner’s lab in the Department of Medicinal Chemistry at the University of Michigan as a Research Specialist, where I contributed to the development of innovative small molecules targeting cancer. After a decade-long hiatus, I returned to graduate school and am now a fourth-year Ph.D. student in Dr. Stephanie Moon’s lab (Program in Chemical Biology). My research focuses on how the loss of proteostasis during aging and neurodegeneration intersects with the integrated stress response. Outside the lab, I enjoy spending quality time with my friends and family. As a scientist and mother, I value hard work, patience, and resilience—qualities that shape my work in the lab and my life beyond it. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1762966439502-IOD2FLRNWPOSHR2P11JF/Erin_Jenson_Headshot.jpg Home - Erin Jenson, PhD student in Cellular and Molecular Biology I completed my bachelor's degree in Biology in 2021 from Carleton College in Northfield, Minnesota. I then moved back to my home state of Utah for three years where I worked as a lab technician at the University of Utah studying the mechanisms that ensure accurate chromosome segregation during cell division. I am currently a second year PhD student in the Cellular and Molecular Biology program in the lab of Dr. Kristen Verhey. My thesis project focuses on post-translational modifications to the microtubules that make up the mitotic spindle and how they promote accurate cell division. Outside of lab I enjoy hiking, reading, and crochet! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1762966502421-4ZXG2K5UYMVRYJQ5MWX1/IMG_6585.jpeg Home - Emily Seiden, Postdoctoral Fellow My name is Emily Seiden and I am a postdoctoral fellow in Patrick Grohar's lab. I study pediatric bone tumors and we use both cell culture and animal models to discover and repurpose drugs for use in the clinic. Currently, we are beginning a canine clinical trial for dogs with osteosarcoma. For undergrad, I went to The University of Alabama in Huntsville. I majored in biology and chemistry, participated in tutoring and also ran the film club. My PhD training was done at Indiana University School of Medicine and my degree was in Anatomy and Cell Biology. Throughout my PhD I pursued teaching in histology and also designed a workshop to teach grad students how to be effective TAs. Outside of lab, I am a competitive powerlifter. I also have a dog, Jessa, who loves long walks and playing with new friends. I also just got married to my husband Richard on Oct 11th at the Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville, AL. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1762966548297-IDSMKZSL3ZFNODMI3S28/Picture2.png Home - Rocio Cisneros, PhD Candidate in Cellular and Molecular Biology I’m Rocìo Cisneros, originally from East Oakland, California, and a PhD candidate at the University of Michigan. My research focuses on looking at the intersection of lysosomes and lipids. Outside the lab, you’ll find me reading, exploring the U.S. National Parks like Joshua Tree and hunting down great coffee. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1762966588773-H59BG6PAVUJP8W7DGD8T/thumbnail_Saranyaraajan+Varadarajan.jpg Home - Saranyaraajan Varadarajan, Postdoctoral Fellow in the Department of Pathology I am a postdoctoral fellow in the Department of Pathology studying how cells sense and repair damage in tissues like the gut. My work explores how the intestinal lining heals after injury and inflammation, which is important for understanding diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease. I love using microscopy to watch cells respond to stress in real time and finding new ways to strengthen our body’s natural repair systems. Outside the lab, I enjoy spending time with my partner, hiking, yoga and sharing science with the community. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1762966666600-8XOX84SYITKGQ80OQ99H/MPHOTO-PIBS-Hds24%2812%29_.jpg Home - Rachel Dziekan, PhD Student in Cellular and Molecular Biology I am a second-year graduate student in the Cellular and Molecular Biology Program. I work in the labs of Michelle Hastings and Rachel Niederer. My thesis work is focused on investigating the use of ASOs for people with Cystic Fibrosis who are not amenable to currently available therapeutics. When not in the lab, I enjoy gardening, knitting, and baking. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1762967064214-AFTJ7DOZ7ZHCCHS2RFCJ/HSW_headshot.png Home - Helen S. Washington, Ph.D. Candidate in Biological Chemistry My name is Helen Washington and I am currently a 2nd year Ph.D. Candidate in Biological Chemistry at the University of Michigan! I went to Mount Holyoke College for undergrad where I graduated with my B.A. in Biochemistry in May of 2024. I am originally from Baltimore, Maryland and my favorite thing to do there is go to the Barnes and Noble by the harbor in the inner city. Here at the UofM, I am co-mentored by Dr. Michelle Hastings and Dr. Sonya Wolf-Fortune in the Pharmacology department. My project focuses on studying the expression of inflammasome complexes in psoriasis and developing a psoriasis antisense oligonucleotide to target these inflammasomes for therapeutic benefit. Aside from science, some of my hobbies include knitting, drawing, watching movies, and listening to music! I am very excited to be an instructor for DFB! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1548025218560-I97TQEXQ0FAES7OE5ELF/20180519074211_IMG_7000.JPG Home - Networking Opportunities Grow your academic and professional networks through one-on-one advising, interacting with current UM grad students, postdocs, and faculty, and attending career development workshops. Form long-term mentorship with DFB instructors, who can help you advance to the next step in your scientific career. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1547925679934-UQYVVKI13BG7BDS7V5UA/0516181116a.jpg Home - Hands-On Labs Expand your laboratory research skills in a fully-functional developmental biology laboratory. Gain an in-depth understanding of the cutting-edge techniques and model organisms used in modern research labs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1607117921489-Y8LZKTTZX2G2AT4YJCHQ/circles+3.png Home https://www.developingfuturebiologists.com/contact daily 0.75 2020-09-13 https://www.developingfuturebiologists.com/alumni-fellowships daily 0.75 2025-02-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1600281841422-XYQK7DKRV1LZVYKWYYMA/IMG_2444.jpg Alumni Fellowships https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1600383602511-PZ38TNGUYNIXONJ8GGMW/IMG_4419.jpg Alumni Fellowships https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1600280666346-G39F4DBCVPU8IOE69YP5/20200805_111558.jpg Alumni Fellowships https://www.developingfuturebiologists.com/our-sponsors daily 0.75 2021-09-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1600450262254-74YW0MJ1OEMY9AKUOJGN/ascb_black-1.jpg Our Sponsors https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1600450346542-QF1WHF1CQPMO4QUXJ8IO/CDB.jpg Our Sponsors https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1600450436149-39H0TKTHKQM2F7DO92B5/CMB.png Our Sponsors https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1600450263103-47H02PWVGY0RT16B8G1J/MCDB+microscope.png Our Sponsors https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1600450264298-SMO0IYWDQS7O0BT45RPA/pibs.png Our Sponsors https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1600450264623-4EUMY6LZ3MTCX6WDODGM/rackham.png Our Sponsors https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1600450467454-QIIXAM0M78QJYGGJP0RJ/LSA.png Our Sponsors https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1600450262782-7X9NQ3UUMFQ7IFRBJB3T/M%26I.png Our Sponsors https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1600450263315-B858BNL1ZO653QEB1RN2/michigan+med.png Our Sponsors https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1600450262720-LNF5V7YP57WE40T7GJXC/LSI_Block_M_logo_16x10.jpg Our Sponsors https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1600450263935-4U5LSGU2GMEE46P34H57/ogps.png Our Sponsors https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1600450263673-1IR2VC0KHF216Z4ZQODV/MIP.jpg Our Sponsors https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1600450264262-K6G84SB9FIM9CND509CN/organogenesis.jpg Our Sponsors https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1600450264003-WT8KUJGYRSE08V5YO0NI/ohei.png Our Sponsors https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1600450264717-6V704FJTV8JDT1CZ61SL/Prep+flyer.jpg Our Sponsors https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1600450760884-199EVAWEMWDKP6QWL718/Neuro.png Our Sponsors https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1600450264898-MX3ICQ3XBGGXBUFOCFOI/rogel+cancer+center.jpg Our Sponsors https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1611939230893-UM8UN64EU0CQJ24F69YN/sdb-blue-logo-with-name.jpg Our Sponsors https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1631296939377-6FER2OXQJ3D2ALKKHNDF/cew.png Our Sponsors https://www.developingfuturebiologists.com/student-resources daily 0.75 2023-10-26 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1608750449002-UNEPIA8S053PAKM61JXH/looking%2Bthrough%2Bscope%2B2.jpg Student Resources https://www.developingfuturebiologists.com/press-and-publications daily 0.75 2023-03-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1605113779035-QQ2I0L3MWXRK2SNUOOCL/2020%2BNewsletter%2Bimage.jpg Press and Publications - First inaugural DFB Newsletter Featuring details on 1) how DFB navigated the challenges of COVID-19 by converting the 2020 Course to a virtual format, 2) new ongoing initiatives to further engage with DFB participants beyond the week-long Course, and 3) what some of our alumni are doing now. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1625511252320-6QTUHOFCGXIDJQJEZZQ8/PE21Finalists.png Press and Publications - ASCB Award Announcement Official award announcement on DFB’s receipt of the 2021-2022 ASCB Public Engagement Grant. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1607712927994-FBY6KFYZPN4CGSDXKURU/BioRxiv+FIgure+3.png Press and Publications - 2018 bioRxiv Article “Developing Future Biologists: creating and assessing a portable short course to engage underrepresented undergraduate students in developmental biology” assesses the outcomes of the 2016 and 2017 DFB Courses in this non-peer reviewed article on BioRxiv. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/a1b0c626-2364-4082-9e04-ad0f5e76f5fe/Screenshot+2023-03-24+at+12.39.22+PM.png Press and Publications - 2023 Development Article “A major goal of DFB is to propel undergraduate students from underserved communities to pursue biomedical research opportunities and advanced degrees in science. To achieve this goal, we provide DFB participants with continuing access to a diverse network of scientists that students can utilize to secure opportunities and foster success throughout multiple stages of their research careers. Here, we describe the flourishing DFB program at the University of Michigan to encourage other institutions to create their own DFB programs,” (Graniel et al 2023). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1603818611055-N1QY97LQOJI9XQ9399XR/2018+article+header.jpg Press and Publications - Lab of Opportunity The 2018 Medicine at Michigan featured article details how DFB enabled students from the University of Puerto Rico to see biology through a new lens at U-M after Hurricane Maria. https://www.developingfuturebiologists.com/photo-gallery daily 0.75 2025-04-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1609963454299-KCV4L3VT3MJB3ZZUHYCN/Developing+Future+Biologists_group+photo.jpg Photo Gallery A collage of the 2020 cohort in their DFB T-shirts https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1609963475817-3XVVIDWP1409ZE62V6FF/Zoom+screenshot.png Photo Gallery 2020’s Zoom classroom https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1609963492387-YMRGX8EGDI5LQ3M8XZWL/Screen+Shot+2020-08-03+at+12.26.00+PM.png Photo Gallery Dr. Scott Barolo uses his infamous tetrapus to illustrate developmental biology concepts https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1609963567325-1HGDWERU4QMY3WKCQ0JY/fly+head.jpg Photo Gallery Image of a fly head taken by a student with their at-home lab kit https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1609963638589-OOTTK0PRQJTOR0GSEAR3/Panel+DFB+Alumni.jpg Photo Gallery One of several panel discussions throughout the 2020 Course, DFB alumni return to share their experiences https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1609964091203-RWU3UG1IGXGM7RS1DBBV/Unknown+bacteria+presentation.png Photo Gallery In groups, students presented on common lab techniques, including how to identify unknown bacteria https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1609963601338-AZGB64VKKINF0CYTZF7L/regenerated+planaria.JPG Photo Gallery Image of a Planarian as taken by a student with their at-home lab kit https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1609967048278-OKQZ8A1AVXL6H7TOVM43/Screen+Shot+2020-08-04+at+1.15.52+PM.png Photo Gallery Dr. Ben Allen shares the dev bio rendition of “Despacito” called “Evo Devo”, much to everyone’s enjoyment https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1609966715874-BADOF1UNOUKDO0N8HTSS/Swagathon+screenshot.png Photo Gallery The end-of-course trivia game was a mood https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1610040778649-INN9PGY5EDDQFHGDGI6Q/IMG_8449.jpg Photo Gallery The 2019 instructor and student cohort in their DFB T-shirts https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1610040820399-BICEJPGGF35ZQLEE99QB/20190519_193405.jpg Photo Gallery Students customized their lab coats to be worn throughout the Course and after https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1610033682995-04DADOL7C1Z3K43JWIU9/IMG_4292.JPG Photo Gallery A student uses a microscope for the Embryogenesis Lab module https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1610040853194-RQ3Q55IGGFPKHOZPAM42/IMG_4316.jpg Photo Gallery Students gather for an activity on cell signaling https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1610040883625-7WS3SQ0638NRU9L4ALQU/IMG_1306.jpg Photo Gallery Dr. Scott Barolo leads an interactive activity on development https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1610034178874-VR0AD528T5CNIS726RC8/IMG_4378.JPG Photo Gallery A student performs a blood smear https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1610033665722-7ERTPJALHSBZ9KIEA2HX/20190520_210111.jpg Photo Gallery Students and instructors enjoy a fun bowling night https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1610040915128-HZFG38VB9U5PWCPV1TOG/20190521_195922.jpg Photo Gallery Students and instructors paint The Rock in honor of DFB https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1610033842032-19BHHBQ997W5TD5Q83QY/IMG_1512.jpg Photo Gallery Colorful skeletal preps are prizes in the annual end-of-course trivia Swag-a-Thon https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1610325070273-9BLSAPIS36IJ6Z3MU8E7/IMG_2549.jpg Photo Gallery First annual painting of The Rock in honor of DFB https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1610324825021-T7B5D9WHOL8THW1JFPTC/IMG_2268.JPG Photo Gallery Dr. Scott Barolo illustrates developmental biology concepts https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1610324833841-A1R40DYXLN8K9T27VFFP/IMG_2374.JPG Photo Gallery Students pose for a group photo after a night of bowling https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1610324851817-6C8SH9IUQHS3MVNAMRUB/IMG_2684.JPG Photo Gallery Dr. Ben Allen assists a student in the lab https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1610325600658-IM190NCE51XPWWL5RIWL/IMG_2746.jpg Photo Gallery Students pose with The Cube at U-M’s Central Campus https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1610324874611-05VFA919788AIMK2BUX5/IMG_2709.JPG Photo Gallery A student uses their phone to capture an image of their windowed chicken egg through the microscope https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1610325554200-QC2EYXR9PKPDP83A79PR/IMG_2807.jpg Photo Gallery An instructor leads the introduction to the Disease and Development Lab module involving Drosophila https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1610324882387-8KZRFPZAY2VT9IFSOM69/IMG_2897.JPG Photo Gallery A group photo at the end-of-course celebratory dinner https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1745427209475-CQ8EHOWH8WEAOFUQWOJY/2015-01-03+05.20.08.jpg Photo Gallery Dr. Ben Allen helps students window eggs https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1745427211572-LPC6W7C5YLWQP1FUNS3J/2015-01-05+03.09.46.jpg Photo Gallery Students learn about molecular techniques in Solve the Crime https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1745427222314-R8WMQE0S57FTA0PRVCHT/2015-01-05+03.16.47.jpg Photo Gallery Student solves karyotyping puzzle for Solve the Crime https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1745427224380-49EY1JQVA2GG88C804AU/2015-01-05+04.00.49.jpg Photo Gallery Instructor Gabbi helps student window her egg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1745427234141-8IPD1OZ5GX6LS0NAMZXZ/2015-01-05+04.12.35.jpg Photo Gallery Instructor Koral helps student window his egg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1745427238004-DL3CUJ6Q94Z4MCMKN3SF/2015-01-06+00.07.48.jpg Photo Gallery TA Mariely gives a lecture https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1745427245350-F904OPDH49P3QB3EYGX0/2015-01-06+00.09.49.jpg Photo Gallery Students engage in morning lectures https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1745427251633-B02ZI84WSU4ZEHMA9GOA/2015-01-06+05.10.55.jpg Photo Gallery Instructor Erick helps students with the fly lab https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1745427259494-767C1RCYGB24MZMOO236/2015-01-06+05.31.44+%281%29.jpg Photo Gallery Students participate in CV workshop https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1745427273205-LBK7FS750ABSLZL8Y742/2015-01-06+08.48.20+copy.jpg Photo Gallery Winning Trivia team! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1745427277882-VUCPYKM55IT6U1W70WT7/2015-01-06+08.56.08.jpg Photo Gallery Students help review each other’s work https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1745427284618-W4G259VOKM6QWDOXY07H/DSC08560.JPG Photo Gallery Welcome to DFB! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1745427286713-2BVUXBOJYDGD5PA8GJCA/DSC08611.JPG Photo Gallery The DFB 2025 student body and instructors have come from around the world to create a great course! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1745427297729-D7GZNMZUNCLEG820GVP7/DSC08613.JPG Photo Gallery Squid games safety training https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1745427298951-Z6WBF1KVH1C0CQ7VT7PR/DSC08615+copy.JPG Photo Gallery Students examine embryos under microscope https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1745427310471-J7NU9AQQOTI68M6R7BPM/DSC08695.JPG Photo Gallery Dr. Scott Barolo gives his lecture on gene regulation https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1745427310500-32EFEBO9MW2LDVCRNGI0/DSC08704.JPG Photo Gallery Gene Expression lecture hands on activities https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1745427322969-YLYP0FGHZK37CUBS4ZI5/DSC08720.JPG Photo Gallery Heizel (pictured) and Paola (both DFB alumni) were our incredible 2024 social media team! Thank you both! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1745427327722-RLINUBLM1VU0GK9WTT4P/DSC09004.JPG Photo Gallery DFB 2024 class https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1745427330769-XC5VFXSL260BOHFJZXEO/IMG_7781.jpeg Photo Gallery DFB 2024 Instructors https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1745427335109-QYBX9WC3KNORPWFX4R5C/IMG_8234.jpeg Photo Gallery Museum night! Lead by Dr. Laura Buttitta https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1745427333084-URL5TQL0XGWSZS9L542M/PHOTO-2024-05-31-15-24-24.jpg Photo Gallery Students learn how to use ImageJ https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1745427339544-K73OZX2RODUBL2U1K5VP/2015-01-03+05.07.58-1.jpg Photo Gallery Instructor Gabbi gives demonstration on egg windowing https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1610039714204-UQQ4KINWGJWXU54RHE3F/20180519083239_IMG_7007.JPG Photo Gallery The 2018 DFB students and instructors https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1610039710991-AI6W8O2WJC1DB2CJ9KB9/IMG_0580.jpg Photo Gallery Students laugh with Dr. Ben Allen over some ice cream https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1610039637689-APM5U0MO7Z6AL7GADYE2/0515181057.jpg Photo Gallery Students link arms for the Gastrulation Dance, led by Dr. Scott Barolo https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1610040641318-8JYJ1KODC10Z5FPS0U0I/20180519073730_IMG_6998.jpg Photo Gallery Flies are prepared for the Development and Disease Lab module https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1610039690644-7HH8RDNG30COCE9QVKTL/Chicken+day+4.jpg Photo Gallery Image of a chicken embryo as prepared by a student https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1610040391763-9273L33CK0XR4AN7HLDF/0516181049.jpg Photo Gallery Students gather for Cell Signaling Dodgeball https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1610039635009-2DFYI4BVIUWLKF7FQBVN/20180518_210746.jpg Photo Gallery Students enjoy a night at Pinball Pete’s in downtown Ann Arbor https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1610040462928-R839GL2TJ1F0ROKJ3QB2/0517181046a.jpg Photo Gallery Students play an interactive game on transcription factors https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1610040541976-2RG3ZWT8XMDBU5RYNBFG/16553.jpg Photo Gallery The 2018 cohort make their mark on The Rock https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1610475496017-ET4DVG4QWUPS1C6UDI1O/DFB+2015_5.jpg Photo Gallery The inaugural 2015 DFB cohort https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1610475493946-QA6MO7CDSYV97UUMF0R6/11351189_457268791121140_6688833026225927297_n.jpg Photo Gallery Students work together to match transcription factors in this interactive game https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1610475493352-WJFWFD0K16GI1A8DOUXH/11231685_456673004514052_4491694333254610494_n.jpg Photo Gallery Students using their microscopes https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1610475494671-G7Y2TCYJJ4FJHYUSRAKF/DFB+2015_2.jpg Photo Gallery An instructor demonstrates best lab techniques to onlooking students https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1610475494164-A7HQAYUA6RQU4IJVJHW7/11390017_457268357787850_6426080071348411134_n.jpg Photo Gallery A student concentrates on the specimen in their petri dish https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1610475493350-XWTLP7W96REJSU64NVKW/11040828_457269031121116_1413462831287848200_n.jpg Photo Gallery Dr. Ben Allen demonstrates how to perform a dissection https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1610475495124-54R9409UQGKMNFJLEVX9/DFB+2015_3.jpg Photo Gallery A student happily engages in the lab module https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1610475495347-6KCTJ4R8Z3VJ6K8ZMRMC/DFB+2015_4.jpg Photo Gallery Students show off their multi-colored clay embryo https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1610475495937-3QLZ3197LF8RCLLTNFVB/Viejo+San+Juan.jpg Photo Gallery The group takes a stroll through Viejo San Juan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1610475895226-IJIQ2T0RF3A2DDVXDZDY/13301290_597083177139700_5325730678017721700_o.jpg Photo Gallery The 2016 DFB cohort https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1610475899416-WUJNCF3SENPQEEAGLER0/13198500_593588944155790_7763596128183957149_o.jpg Photo Gallery The group takes a trip to the art museum https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1610475917046-G9KUY9MCA3X1D3NT9DLU/13316921_595443730636978_6415748984621754713_o.jpg Photo Gallery Windowing chicken embryos https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1610476050707-ET0CXI6W9KBEJ08CJD4P/13268587_595012154013469_8399296502178712795_o.jpg Photo Gallery Students work on an activity together with Dr. Scott Barolo https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1610475933690-VNIC02W055U0QUX8Y3ZT/13323696_597085433806141_973837415739198041_o.jpg Photo Gallery Students show off their DFB and U-M swag https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1610475920902-RTOXV952MIHCQ128HW7F/13308727_595444253970259_62267775713140482_o.jpg Photo Gallery A student dissects a specimen under the microscope https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1610476315976-GVF14UV76OWRSB83VZZA/13248403_594061340775217_7635492135727491138_o.jpg Photo Gallery A night out bowling https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1610475925616-FWDZ8NXDDNTS66FMQVHM/13329369_597083617139656_1709203231922546586_o.jpg Photo Gallery An instructor leads the lab introduction on model organisms https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1610475927062-3D87USZ5FSR9RS23NZMM/13346198_597085543806130_1946247912883629697_o.jpg Photo Gallery Students in the classroom https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1610476450901-B8J6G6EVQWQGPQ47ZS2N/13244227_594059424108742_1538621202541865253_o.jpg Photo Gallery Dr. Scott Barolo arranges students for an interactive activity https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1610475930729-YH8VNEIB42AZHMSXY2Y6/13320518_597086237139394_4055259761509906786_o.jpg Photo Gallery The end-of-course dinner and goodbyes https://www.developingfuturebiologists.com/history-of-dfb daily 0.75 2025-04-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1613760225875-70HPI6K9BFJTHKDKEFNC/Nayanna%25252BABRCMS.jpg History of DFB DFB’s first TA, Nayanna Mercado-Soto, poses with DFB faculty Dr. Ben Allen in front of her research poster at ABRCMS. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1613758135781-1RR6D5P3ZDG8WOGMNFPK/Andrea%252Band%252BMartha%252B2015.jpg History of DFB Andrea Ramos (left) leads a session for the inaugural 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