Tyler Myers — Editor-in-Chief
Hey, I am a senior pursuing a dual degree in microbiology and neuroscience with a minor in public health. Throughout my time at UT-Knoxville, I have been interested in utilizing academic research to bridge knowledge gaps between the fields of microbiology and neuroscience to better understand how gut bacteria facilitate the development and function of the human nervous system. To this end, I have worked in the lab of Dr. Heidi Goodrich-Blair in the Department of Microbiology. Using entomopathogenic nematodes and their bacterial endosymbionts to study how changes in bacterial metabolic enzyme expression impact developmental and behavioral phenotypes in the animal host through neurotransmitter modulation. Following graduation, I aim to pursue an MD-PhD and work at microbiome-neurobiology interfaces to develop new protocols for the treatment of neurological andpsychiatric disorders through a microbial lens.
Email: tmyers14@vols.utk.edu
Preseley Nichols — Research Editor
Hi, my name is Presley Nichols, and I am an upcoming junior Honors Neuroscience major planning to attend medical school post-graduation. My previous research involvement focused on psychology, but I am soon moving into research under the Department of Surgery at UT Medical Center. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with family and friends and relaxing with my favorite shows. One fun fact about me is that I will be studying abroad in Italy this summer to finish my Italian language courses. I feel so fortunate to be a part of Pursuit, as it showcases the hard work of my fellow UT students!
Email: slawre19@vols.utk.edu
Natalie Smith — Managing Editor
Hello! I’m a senior studying Biology of Global Health and English. During my time at UTK, interactions I’ve had with members of the Knoxville community through research and service have made me deeply passionate about the ways that community resources and engagement can profoundly impact physical and mental health outcomes for underserved populations, particularly low-income women and children. My research interests broadly include the social determinants of health, infectious diseases, and maternal child health, which I currently pursue as an undergraduate researcher in the Burcham Lab studying the host response to Group B Streptococcus, particularly in the context of pregnancy. Post-grad, I plan to pursue an MSW/MPH dual degree and work in the field of women’s health as a community health advocate and researcher.
Email: zfj193@vols.utk.edu
Ella Miller — Marketing Editor
Hey, I am a senior studying Global Studies and Psychology with a minor in Spanish. I am currently exploring research regarding perceptions of mental health in immigrant communities. I am interested in the pedagogy of mental health, migrant justice, and human rights. I plan to apply for a Fulbright Study Award for a Masters in International Studies at the University of Salamanca in Spain. I am also currently the president of Leading Women of Tomorrow and love engaging with women on campus and in various fields to learn from them and encourage one another. I also enjoy traveling, going to new restaurants in Knoxville, and experimenting with new recipes at home as well.
Email: emille94@vols.utk.edu
Amelya Fox — Logistics Editor
Hello! My name is Amelya Fox, and I am a senior studying biomedical engineering at UTK. I am passionate about gender equity in science and society, with key research interests surrounding sex differences, women’s health, and reproductive science. I am an undergraduate research assistant in Dr. Colleen Crouch’s Biomedical Imaging Lab, where I study myocardial infarction in mouse models. My project focuses on sex differences as well as multimodal methods development. Beyond graduation from UTK, I hope to pursue a PhD in biomedical engineering and perform research in the reproductive health field. I am excited to be a member of the Pursuit editorial board!
Email: afox43@vols.utk.edu