Welcome our new lab members: Corben, Johnathan, Kar Men, and Allision !!!

In Fall 2025 and Spring 2026, we are excited to have Corben, Johnathan, Kar Men, and Allision join our lab. Looking forward to work with you all !!!

"Hello, my name is Corben Dean. I grew up in the Florida Keys and have spent most of my life there. I am currently a freshman at the University of Florida, majoring in Microbiology and Cell Sciences, and minoring in Applied Brain Sciences. I have an interest in neuroscience research, specifically in neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson's; I previously interned for a synaptic dysfunction lab in Berlin, studying the causes of these diseases. Outside of school, I enjoy reading and spending time outdoors. I also love animals: I have pet chickens, quail, tortoises, chameleons, cats, dogs, and sometimes snakes."

"Hi! My name is Johnathan Poisson, and I’m a first-year Microbiology and Cell Science major on the Pre-Med track at the University of Florida. I’m originally from Tampa, FL, and I have a strong interest in genetics and cellular virology. My interest in neurodegenerative disease research stems from a personal connection—my grandmother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, and I have witnessed its progression over many years. Through my time at UF, I hope to deepen my understanding of Alzheimer’s and contribute to the development of effective treatments and potential cures for this disease and others like it. Outside of academics, I enjoy hiking, fishing, and spending time with friends and family.”

"Hi! My name is Kar Men and I am an international student from Malaysia. I graduated with a B.S. in Biomedical Sciences from Western Michigan University in 2023 and went onto to work as a Lab Technician in University of Florida. As of Fall 2025, I have been pursuing my PhD in Molecular Genetics and Genomics here at UF. When I am not in lab, I love reading, watching movies, spending time with people and attending concerts."

“Allison joined the lab in Spring 2026 as an undergraduate volunteer. She is interested in investigating neurological disorders through genetics. With her undergraduate degree in Biotechnology, she plans to pursue a PhD in Biomedical Sciences. Ultimately, she aims to leverage her academic background within the pharmaceutical industry to innovate novel therapies for disorders with unmet medical need.”