ABOUT ME

I am a PhD Candidate in Neuroscience at Vanderbilt University, researching sensorimotor issues in autism under the co-mentorship of Prof. Mark Wallace (Multisensory Lab, Vanderbilt University) and Prof. Carissa Cascio (LASR Lab, University of Kansas). My work is supported by several prestigious grants and examines how autistics perceive and interact with their surroundings, particularly through the lens of Peripersonal Space (PPS), multisensory integration, and predictive coding. I hope my research not only expands our understanding of these processes but also contributes to translatable solutions for the autism community.

Beyond PPS, my interest extends to developing ecologically valid methodologies, integrating VR/AR for neuroscience research, and experimental design that capture a wider range of autistic profiles. Updating research methods is essential, as that allows us to get a more comprehensive understanding of underlying issues in autism, so that we can develop effective solutions that address the full spectrum. 

Additionally, I am interested in biomedical solutions, particularly biomarkers, that elucidate the often under-explored yet numerous co-occurring health challenges in autism, recognizing the interplay between neurological, physiological, and systemic factors that shape autistic well-being. 

Academic Journey

I am an alum of UC Berkeley, where as a Berkeley Haas Scholar, I conducted independent research on awe and empathy in autism, mentored by Prof. Dacher Keltner. During my time at Berkeley, I worked as a Research Assistant in multiple psychology research labs and at the UC Berkeley Disability Lab.

My early fascination with neuroscience and psycholgy can be traced back to my childhood, when I was captivated by the illustrations of the nervous system in the medical textbooks belonging to my aunt and uncle, both doctors. It feels serendipitous that I now spend my time investigating sensory systems in autism.

Beyond Research

As an autistic (with ADHD), with challenges spanning multiple areas, I am deeply invested in finding solutions that address multiple domains of autism. I engage in extensive writing on autism, contribute to nonprofits, and lead initiatives aimed at developing practical, impactful solutions.

Outside of academia, I am also an avid poet, philosopher, and creative writer. My literary works have won awards, been published in anthologies, and even informed character development for a Netflix science-themed animated series and movie. As a middle schooler I won the prestigious Scholastic Writing Award which I received in Carnegie Hall and my work went to to be published in an anthology with a foreword by the Nobel Laureate, Elie Wiesel. 

At the end of the day, I strive to live a life of meaning and purpose—  seeking solutions so my body is better able to cope and navigate our world, and seeking a world that is more navigable and kinder for those of us who experience it differently.

Honors & Awards

Vanderbilt University. PhD Candidate in Neuroscience 

• GPA: 4.0
• NSF Graduate Research Fellow 
• NISE Fellow, Frist Center for Autism & Innovation 
• AUCD Young Professional Award
• UCLA-AIRP ANSWER Scholar 
• Paul and Daisy Soros Fellow 

University of California, Berkeley. BA

• GPA: 4.0, Summa Cum Laude, Phi Beta Kappa, Highest Distinction, Highest Honors
• University Medal Runner-up (Top 5 of 11,000 graduates)
• Psychology Department Citation Award (Top student in graduating class)
• Berkeley Haas Scholar

Other

• Writing Awards: Recipient of ~40 national and regional awards for essays, commentaries, poetry, and short stories, including a Scholastic National Gold Medal.