https://www.developingfuturebiologists.com/dfb-instuctors daily 0.75 2026-11-09 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/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/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/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/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/1794233175509-GSVUSEXT9QYBH9Z0GS1P/Picture2.png DFB Instructors - Anna Olson, PhD Pre-Candidate (MSTP) in Neuroscience My name is Anna Olson (she/her) and I am a 4th year in the MSTP program and have just begun my PhD in the neuroscience graduate program. I am currently in Dr. Louis Dang's lab in the Department of Pediatrics, where I study the role of autophagy in neurodevelopment using stem cell and cerebral organoid models. In my free time, I enjoy sewing, lifting weights, and spending time with my dog Luna. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1794233400446-0ZY7WCPZDRNB7YLLGHS8/Picture2.png DFB Instructors - Emory Hsieh, PhD Candidate in Neuroscience My name is Emory Hsieh (she/her), and I am a 2nd-year PhD candidate in the Neuroscience Graduate Program. I am in Dr. Dan Wahl's lab in the Department of Radiation Oncology, where I study the metabolic interactions between neurons and diffuse midline glioma, a type of pediatric brain cancer, using stem cell-derived and primary mouse neuron models. I enjoy pottery, coffee, reading, and going to trivia nights with friends in my free time. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1794233587023-BGRZI46JDPZVO3GQ0VPW/Picture2.png DFB Instructors - Rachel Edwards, PhD Pre-Candidate (PIBS) My name is Rachel Edwards (she/her)! I am a 1st year program in biomedical sciences (PIBS) student rotating in labs within Biological Chemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, and Cancer Biology. I hope to find a permanent home this March-ish. I'm originally from Greenville, South Carolina, but just graduated undergrad this past May at North Carolina State University! I got a double major in Microbiology and Chemistry. Currently, I just started taking piano lessons and collecting all the Ninetales Pokémon cards! I am so excited to be a part of DFB :) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1794233678476-DQAA1F23WBPL9F1GMVUQ/Picture2.png DFB Instructors - Adrian Palumbo, PhD Candidate in Biological Chemistry Hey, my name is Adrian Palumbo (he/him)! I grew up in Chandler, Arizona, and immediately wanted to get out of the heat, so I did my undergrad at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio, where I earned a B.S. in Biochemistry, and researched how encephalopathy-associated patient variants in NMDA receptor subunits affect the ability of the ion channel to fold and traffic properly to the synapse, as well as how this dysregulation contributes to disease burden. I also did a smaller bioinformatics project looking into the venom proteome of a parasitic wasp, as well as the transcriptome of its prey pre and post sting, mapping changes in transcript abundance to specific venom proteins, with the end goal of identifying medically useful components of the venom. I'm currently a second year in the Biological Chemistry Ph.D. program where I study the location-biased signalling of the proton sensing receptor GPR65. This receptor has been linked to how acidic tumor microenvironments have immunosuppressive effects, so by understanding the signalling pathways of the receptor, we hope to improve the efficacy of immune checkpoint therapies, some of our best treatments for solid tumors. In my free time, I enjoy singing with GradTONES, University of Michigan's premier graduate student a cappella group, gardening, playing board games, baking, and hanging out with my cats and dog. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1794233811903-V1TZ72K6WMCV35F24HCS/Picture2.png DFB Instructors - Heizel Acosta, PhD Candidate in Molecular and Cellular Pathology I’m a third-year PhD candidate in the Molecular and Cellular Pathology program. I’m also a proud DFB alumna from the 2021 course! I earned my bachelor’s degree in Animal Science from the University of Puerto Rico–Mayagüez and later joined the University of Michigan’s Postbaccalaureate Research Education Program (PREP) before starting my PhD. I’m currently in Dr. Jiaqi Shi’s lab in the Department of Pathology, where we study the role of epigenetic regulators in pancreatic cancer development and progression. My research focuses on understanding how changes in the environment surrounding pancreatic tumors affect immune cells, particularly T cells, and their ability to fight cancer. In my free time, I enjoy trying new coffee shops, spending time with my cat, Mocha, and reading thriller novels. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1794234065770-7BSTBB3UXVV8BLMCS7MY/Picture2.png DFB Instructors - Mariela Lopez Gonzalez, PhD Candidate in Molecular and Cellular Biology Hi all, I'm Mariela! I received my B.A. from Grinnell College, where I majored in physics and biology. I am currently a second-year in the CMB program in Dr. Nicole Edwards’ Lab. We work with a variety of research models, but I specifically work with Xenopus to study adhesion protein trafficking during trachea-esophageal separation! I am really interested in morphogenesis, cell adhesion, and motility. In my free time, I enjoy drawing, gathering mushrooms, and spending time with my two sweet kitties, Oscar and Fresca. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1794234120102-LKFO5KOD8BTEBSTXVFHK/Picture2.png DFB Instructors - Dajia Wang, PhD Candidate in Cell and Developmental Biology I earned my bachelor’s in Pharmacy from China Pharmaceutical University before moving to the U.S. to complete my master’s in Pharmacology at the University of Michigan Medical School. Now a 4th-year Ph.D. candidate in Cell and Developmental Biology co-mentored by Dr. Pierre Coulombe and Dr. Carole Parent, my research investigates how epithelial molecular changes regulate immune cell behavior in skin inflammation. Outside of research, you can usually find me hiking, taking photos, or exploring local cafes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1794234223327-6NIIGAC1VGGADBTSF9FC/Picture2.png DFB Instructors - Rachael Hinshaw, PhD Candidate in Cancer Biology Rachael is a 4th year PhD candidate in the Cancer Biology program. She studies transcriptional heterogeneity and mechanisms of resistance in Ewing sarcoma in the Grohar lab. After she graduates, Rachael intends to pursue a career of teaching biology at the college level, starting with a year teaching in Spain. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1794234357202-70XR6DY0QBYL3O2D7AYP/Picture2.png DFB Instructors - Regina Casimiro-Nunez, PhD Pre-Candidate in Cellular and Molecular Biology Hi! My name is Regina Casimiro-Núñez, and I’m a second year PhD pre-candidate in the Cellular and Molecular Biology program here at the University of Michigan. Before starting graduate school, I earned my Bachelor’s in Biological Engineering and Master’s of Engineering in Biomedical Engineering where I developed a novel collagen-hydrogel biosynthetic material to use for auricular reconstruction. Then, I spent two years at Moderna studying LNP-mRNA biology and pharmacokinetics in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo. Now, I’m developing an all-human model of perineural invasion in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma using human-derived tissue explants, tumor cell lines, and cancer associated fibroblasts as well as iPSC-derived neurons to study the tumor-nerve crosstalk driving this phenomenon. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1794234491701-FAGTLHMPBVC3CJW93EA6/Picture2.png DFB Instructors - Abbey Hanes, PhD Candidate in Biological Chemistry My name is Abbey Hanes and I am currently a 2nd year PhD. Candidate in the Biological Chemistry Department. I went to the State University of New York at Geneseo where I graduated with my B.S. in Biochemistry in 2025. I am originally from Buffalo, New York. Go Bills!! I work in the lab of Dr. Emily Scott where I study the structure and function of sterol Human P450s and their implications in disease. Outside of the lab I love running, biking, puzzling, and hanging out with my cat. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1794234714044-9CE42HZ9PUZDVR6HST02/Picture2.png DFB Instructors - Irene Jin, PhD Candidate in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology Hi, I’m Irene Jin, a third-year PhD student in the Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology program. My research focuses on understanding the molecular and mechanical mechanisms underlying the regeneration of mammalian small intestinal villus architecture. In my research, developmental biology concepts have been my greatest inspiration in studying tissue regeneration. Beyond research, I enjoy sharing science through teaching, mentoring, and scientific outreach. I also love playing music, running, and drawing to relax and balance my life. 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/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1547661215687-8IZFMLI90GJFOCH4PPO9/20180519083239_IMG_7007.jpg Home - DFB Class of 2018 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/v1/573cc03cc2ea51f428cb5dd6/1494428317951-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 2026-11-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1607117921489-Y8LZKTTZX2G2AT4YJCHQ/circles+3.png Home 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/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/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/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/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/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/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/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/1794233175509-GSVUSEXT9QYBH9Z0GS1P/Picture2.png Home - Anna Olson, PhD Pre-Candidate (MSTP) in Neuroscience My name is Anna Olson (she/her) and I am a 4th year in the MSTP program and have just begun my PhD in the neuroscience graduate program. I am currently in Dr. Louis Dang's lab in the Department of Pediatrics, where I study the role of autophagy in neurodevelopment using stem cell and cerebral organoid models. In my free time, I enjoy sewing, lifting weights, and spending time with my dog Luna. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1794233400446-0ZY7WCPZDRNB7YLLGHS8/Picture2.png Home - Emory Hsieh, PhD Candidate in Neuroscience My name is Emory Hsieh (she/her), and I am a 2nd-year PhD candidate in the Neuroscience Graduate Program. I am in Dr. Dan Wahl's lab in the Department of Radiation Oncology, where I study the metabolic interactions between neurons and diffuse midline glioma, a type of pediatric brain cancer, using stem cell-derived and primary mouse neuron models. I enjoy pottery, coffee, reading, and going to trivia nights with friends in my free time. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1794233587023-BGRZI46JDPZVO3GQ0VPW/Picture2.png Home - Rachel Edwards, PhD Pre-Candidate (PIBS) My name is Rachel Edwards (she/her)! I am a 1st year program in biomedical sciences (PIBS) student rotating in labs within Biological Chemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, and Cancer Biology. I hope to find a permanent home this March-ish. I'm originally from Greenville, South Carolina, but just graduated undergrad this past May at North Carolina State University! I got a double major in Microbiology and Chemistry. Currently, I just started taking piano lessons and collecting all the Ninetales Pokémon cards! I am so excited to be a part of DFB :) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1794233678476-DQAA1F23WBPL9F1GMVUQ/Picture2.png Home - Adrian Palumbo, PhD Candidate in Biological Chemistry Hey, my name is Adrian Palumbo (he/him)! I grew up in Chandler, Arizona, and immediately wanted to get out of the heat, so I did my undergrad at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio, where I earned a B.S. in Biochemistry, and researched how encephalopathy-associated patient variants in NMDA receptor subunits affect the ability of the ion channel to fold and traffic properly to the synapse, as well as how this dysregulation contributes to disease burden. I also did a smaller bioinformatics project looking into the venom proteome of a parasitic wasp, as well as the transcriptome of its prey pre and post sting, mapping changes in transcript abundance to specific venom proteins, with the end goal of identifying medically useful components of the venom. I'm currently a second year in the Biological Chemistry Ph.D. program where I study the location-biased signalling of the proton sensing receptor GPR65. This receptor has been linked to how acidic tumor microenvironments have immunosuppressive effects, so by understanding the signalling pathways of the receptor, we hope to improve the efficacy of immune checkpoint therapies, some of our best treatments for solid tumors. In my free time, I enjoy singing with GradTONES, University of Michigan's premier graduate student a cappella group, gardening, playing board games, baking, and hanging out with my cats and dog. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1794233811903-V1TZ72K6WMCV35F24HCS/Picture2.png Home - Heizel Acosta, PhD Candidate in Molecular and Cellular Pathology I’m a third-year PhD candidate in the Molecular and Cellular Pathology program. I’m also a proud DFB alumna from the 2021 course! I earned my bachelor’s degree in Animal Science from the University of Puerto Rico–Mayagüez and later joined the University of Michigan’s Postbaccalaureate Research Education Program (PREP) before starting my PhD. I’m currently in Dr. Jiaqi Shi’s lab in the Department of Pathology, where we study the role of epigenetic regulators in pancreatic cancer development and progression. My research focuses on understanding how changes in the environment surrounding pancreatic tumors affect immune cells, particularly T cells, and their ability to fight cancer. In my free time, I enjoy trying new coffee shops, spending time with my cat, Mocha, and reading thriller novels. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1794234065770-7BSTBB3UXVV8BLMCS7MY/Picture2.png Home - Mariela Lopez Gonzalez, PhD Candidate in Molecular and Cellular Biology Hi all, I'm Mariela! I received my B.A. from Grinnell College, where I majored in physics and biology. I am currently a second-year in the CMB program in Dr. Nicole Edwards’ Lab. We work with a variety of research models, but I specifically work with Xenopus to study adhesion protein trafficking during trachea-esophageal separation! I am really interested in morphogenesis, cell adhesion, and motility. In my free time, I enjoy drawing, gathering mushrooms, and spending time with my two sweet kitties, Oscar and Fresca. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1794234120102-LKFO5KOD8BTEBSTXVFHK/Picture2.png Home - Dajia Wang, PhD Candidate in Cell and Developmental Biology I earned my bachelor’s in Pharmacy from China Pharmaceutical University before moving to the U.S. to complete my master’s in Pharmacology at the University of Michigan Medical School. Now a 4th-year Ph.D. candidate in Cell and Developmental Biology co-mentored by Dr. Pierre Coulombe and Dr. Carole Parent, my research investigates how epithelial molecular changes regulate immune cell behavior in skin inflammation. Outside of research, you can usually find me hiking, taking photos, or exploring local cafes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1794234223327-6NIIGAC1VGGADBTSF9FC/Picture2.png Home - Rachael Hinshaw, PhD Candidate in Cancer Biology Rachael is a 4th year PhD candidate in the Cancer Biology program. She studies transcriptional heterogeneity and mechanisms of resistance in Ewing sarcoma in the Grohar lab. After she graduates, Rachael intends to pursue a career of teaching biology at the college level, starting with a year teaching in Spain. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1794234357202-70XR6DY0QBYL3O2D7AYP/Picture2.png Home - Regina Casimiro-Nunez, PhD Pre-Candidate in Cellular and Molecular Biology Hi! My name is Regina Casimiro-Núñez, and I’m a second year PhD pre-candidate in the Cellular and Molecular Biology program here at the University of Michigan. Before starting graduate school, I earned my Bachelor’s in Biological Engineering and Master’s of Engineering in Biomedical Engineering where I developed a novel collagen-hydrogel biosynthetic material to use for auricular reconstruction. Then, I spent two years at Moderna studying LNP-mRNA biology and pharmacokinetics in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo. Now, I’m developing an all-human model of perineural invasion in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma using human-derived tissue explants, tumor cell lines, and cancer associated fibroblasts as well as iPSC-derived neurons to study the tumor-nerve crosstalk driving this phenomenon. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1794234491701-FAGTLHMPBVC3CJW93EA6/Picture2.png Home - Abbey Hanes, PhD Candidate in Biological Chemistry My name is Abbey Hanes and I am currently a 2nd year PhD. Candidate in the Biological Chemistry Department. I went to the State University of New York at Geneseo where I graduated with my B.S. in Biochemistry in 2025. I am originally from Buffalo, New York. Go Bills!! I work in the lab of Dr. Emily Scott where I study the structure and function of sterol Human P450s and their implications in disease. Outside of the lab I love running, biking, puzzling, and hanging out with my cat. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1794234714044-9CE42HZ9PUZDVR6HST02/Picture2.png Home - Irene Jin, PhD Candidate in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology Hi, I’m Irene Jin, a third-year PhD student in the Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology program. My research focuses on understanding the molecular and mechanical mechanisms underlying the regeneration of mammalian small intestinal villus architecture. In my research, developmental biology concepts have been my greatest inspiration in studying tissue regeneration. Beyond research, I enjoy sharing science through teaching, mentoring, and scientific outreach. I also love playing music, running, and drawing to relax and balance my life. 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/1600383602511-PZ38TNGUYNIXONJ8GGMW/IMG_4419.jpg Alumni Fellowships https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1600280666346-G39F4DBCVPU8IOE69YP5/20200805_111558.jpg Alumni Fellowships https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1600281841422-XYQK7DKRV1LZVYKWYYMA/IMG_2444.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/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://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/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://www.developingfuturebiologists.com/photo-gallery daily 0.75 2025-04-23 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/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/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/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/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://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://www.developingfuturebiologists.com/history-of-dfb daily 0.75 2025-04-08 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 2015 course alongside fellow founding member Martha Echevarria-Andino (right). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c3d2febc3c16a9978ee793a/1613758552967-S7RGD8U77MMHZVRSNDKG/2018%2BUM%2Bsign.jpg History of DFB Students of the 2018 cohort visit U-M’s Central Campus. 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://www.developingfuturebiologists.com/home-alt-bedford daily 0.75 2025-05-12 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/52a74d9ae4b0253945d2aee9/1390500612440-PGQSIY8KL9F7T5VIXQLO/chambers-2.jpg Home Alt A better world Starts with a choice Contact Us https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/52a74d9ae4b0253945d2aee9/1390500503574-5BAPXZO9U06UV61P49UO/chambers1.jpg Home Alt Sustainability Starts with you Join Us https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/52a74d9ae4b0253945d2aee9/1390500933384-LII4SRIPHFYOUFX0UCXC/chambers-4.jpg Home Alt A better world Starts with a choice Join Us https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/52a74d9ae4b0253945d2aee9/1390504287124-HQ8GNX1JCE22V047MSQ9/chambers-8.jpg Home Alt Preserve Nature Join Us