Department of Neurobiology Hosting R25 Training Grant Scholars
July 1, 2024
This summer, the Department of Neurobiology is proudly hosting two scholars as part of the NIH R25 Research Education Training Program Grant. This multi-institutional summer research, educational, and professional development training program is a testament to our commitment to preparing undergraduate students from underrepresented populations in the U.S. Biomedical Sciences for advanced academic training in PhD and MD/PhD programs, fostering their pursuit of sleep and circadian science careers, and promoting a diverse workforce.
A total of 12 scholars are participating in the program this year, and the other institutions hosting R25 scholars for the 2024 summer program include the University of Pennsylvania and Washington University St. Louis.
Please welcome Aaniyah and Jaiden to Northwestern and see a little bit of information on our visiting scholars below:
Aaniyah Jarrette
I am a rising junior Biology major at Spelman College. I am conducting my R25 summer research project at Northwestern University in Dr. Tiffany Schmidt's laboratory. The objective of my project is to investigate the role of light in regulating reproduction. Upon completing my undergraduate studies, I plan to obtain an MD/PhD and build a research career in neuroscience. I seek to translate sleep and circadian rhythm research to the individualized service plans of individuals with developmental disabilities.
Jaiden Bradford
In May 2024, I graduated from Spelman College with a B.S. in Biology. Currently, I am working in Dr. Fred Turek’s lab at Northwestern University under the R25 program and our main focal point is determining the onset of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s Disease by examining regular vs. disrupted sleep/circadian rhythmic cycles using mice models. This summer, I will also be studying for the MCAT in preparation of being accepted into the 2025/2026 MD/PhD student cycle.