Program: Comparative and Molecular Biosciences Graduate Student (DVM/PhD program)
Year Entered: 2018
Defense Year: 2024
Thesis Advisors: Steven Friedenberg and Marc Jenkins 
Dissertation Title: "Investigation of antigen-specific CD4+ T cells in dogs"

Research: 
Autoimmune Addison's Disease (AAD) is a life-threatening endocrinopathy that naturally develops in humans and dogs and is characterized by the immune-mediated destruction of the adrenal cortex. To understand the immunological causes of AAD autoreactivity, we are creating a canine model for AAD to identify and characterize the autoantigen(s) and the autoreactive CD4+ T cell population involved in disease onset. To study these autoimmune triggers, we will utilize canine-specific peptide MHC II tetramers and T cell activation marker assays that we have developed. With a more informed understanding of AAD, we hope to bring the standard of treatment into a new era of antigen-specific therapeutics for the benefit of humans and dogs alike. 

Degrees received: 
Ph.D., University of Minnesota, TC, 2024
B.S., Pre-veterinary Studies, University MA-Amherst, 2018

Current Position: DVM in progress, University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine
Contact Info:  [email protected]