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) and multisensory integration. 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 (Hinshaw Lab, Golden Bear Mood and Sleep Research Clinic) and at the UC Berkeley Disability Lab.

My early fascination with neuroscience and psychology 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. I did not expect to be here, so it feels serendipitous that I now spend my time investigating sensory systems in autism.

Poetry, Philosophy and Creative Writing

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 Gold Medal for Writing 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. 

The Quest for Solutions can never end. 

I am deeply invested in finding solutions that address multiple domains of autism that go beyond my academic research. I engage in extensive writing on autism, contribute to multiple nonprofits, am on the boards of numerous orgs, and lead initiatives aimed at developing practical, impactful solutions. 

My Disability

I was diagnosed at age 3 with autism and ADHD. Autism likes sameness and ADHD loves change, so the presence of both in the same body can be quite the dilemma. I do have some spoken language but it is still limited,  so tend to rely on text to speech or other alternative communication. I also have challenges on other fronts - sensorimotor, fine motor, body schema, body coordination, high social anxiety, movement issues, OCD, and health issues. All my disability challenges put together can feel like a leaky boat at the best of times. There is no denying that living in a disabled body can be exhausting. That is to say, I do not not have to love every part of my disability and many of these do present significant obstacles in my everyday living. 

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 very differently.

Honors & Awards

I am unabashedly thrilled and proud at all the "shiny baubles" I've received on my journey.  

For me they are an acknowledgement that says: "young man, you must be doing somethings right"

 

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.

Publications