Graduate Students
Zach Butler
PhD Student jmc1118 [@]earth.miami.edu |
Zach Butler
I am studying the epigenetic mechanisms cadmium-induced behavioral disorders. More specifically, I am examining the role of Bromodomain and Extra-Terminal motif inhibitors (BETi) in suppressing cadmium induced cytotoxicity. This work is funded in part by a Veteran's Affairs grant. |
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Jessica Okutsu
Hello! My name is Jess and I am a PhD student in the EPIC lab. I graduated from UC Davis with a BS in International Agricultural Development. I worked for a private ecotoxicology testing and consulting laboratory for six years and spent the latter two years as a project manager. I then returned to academia to study the effects of microplastics on the feeding behavior of Daphnia magna. I am currently studying the therapeutic potential of selenium for cadmium toxicity in zebrafish (Danio rerio). |
Research Staff
Gabriela Perez
Technician gjp109 [@] miami.edu 
Abby McCartney
Research Associate akm312 [@] miami.edu |
Gabriela Perez
I am studying the the transgenerational impact of cadmium toxicity on visually-guided behavior. I am interested in the understanding the epigenetic changes that may underlie the legacy effect of cadmium I am using Laser Ablation-Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectroscopy to localize cadmium and RNAseq and Bisulfite sequencing to understand gene expression changes triggered by cadmium. Abby McCartney
I am examining the transgenerational impact of firefighter related contaminants (e.g., PAHs, Phthalates, PFAS, metals) on behavior. I joined EPIC after earning a BSc in Biology at Virginia Tech and completing my MSc at University of Exeter. For my thesis, I studied coastal bat behavior. This work is funded through the State of Florida as part of the Sylvester Firefighter Cancer Initiative. Outside of the lab or field, I enjoy playing soccer, reading, and watching scary movies. |
Undergraduate Researchers
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Leah Kuker I am a sophomore at the University of Miami, majoring in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. In the future, I plan to attend medical school with aspirations of working in pediatrics. My goal is to strengthen the bridge between personal and clinical connections with patients, to better help those in need. On campus, I am also a part of the medical fraternity Phi Delta Epsilon, which I consider to be my second family. Outside of the lab, I love spending time with friends and family, taking advantage of the beaches in Miami, and hanging out with my dog, Louie. Jen Fermo
I am a sophomore at the University of Miami majoring in Biology on the pre-med track. I’ve always been drawn to science and medicine, and my long-term goal is to become a physician. Through research and clinical experiences, I’ve developed a strong interest in how molecular and cellular processes connect to human health. At UM, I am involved in beach volleyball, MEDLIFE, AMSA, and other organizations that support students pursuing medicine. Outside of school and the lab, I enjoy playing violin, going on long walks, and spending time with friends and family. Richard Popp
I am an undergraduate nursing major at the University of Miami. I am studying the epigenetic effects of cadmium toxicity. My future goal is to attend nursing school. I enjoy cooking in my spare time. Calynda Va
I am a sophomore at University of Miami majoring in Health Science with minors in Psychology and Public Health. My future goals consist of attending graduate school to become a Physician Assistant. I am very passionate about diving deeper into scientific research to better understand the mechanisms behind human health and apply this knowledge to better serve patients in my future career. On campus, I’m involved with the clubs MedLife and Skin to Skin that focus on a variety of health related topics and communities. Outside, I enjoy going to the beach, traveling, and making art. Sigrid Ekeland I am a Junior at the University of Miami majoring in Biology with minors in psychology, spanish, chemistry, and management. I have always loved science and have the long term goal of pursuing a masters in biotechnology and eventually pursuing a career in the same field. Outside of science I am very passionate about animal welfare and have been fostering and rehabilitating animals since a young age. I also work for a STEM tutoring program which helps kids of all ages gain access to further education in the STEM field. Outside of those I enjoy hobbies such as hiking, traveling, and spending time with friends and family. |