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Dr. Rachel Kohman

Principal Investigator

I completed my doctoral degree at Texas Christian University in Experimental Psychology with an emphasis in Behavioral Neuroscience and Psychoneuroimmunology, followed by postdoctoral fellowships at Rutgers University and the University of Illinois. In 2012, I joined the Department of Psychology faculty at the University of North Carolina Wilmington. My research program evaluates the functional consequences of inflammation within the brain (i.e., neuroinflammation) as well as attempts to elucidate the physiological mechanisms through which neuroinflammation disrupts cognitive function and measures of neural plasticity.  

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Madison Clark

Graduate student

I graduated from the University of Georgia with a double major in Biology and Psychology. I'm thrilled to be in my first year of the Psychological Science PhD program at the University of North Carolina Wilmington. My research interests focus on uncovering the molecular mechanisms behind age-related neurodegenerative disorders, to identify therapeutic targets that can delay disease progression and enhance quality of life. I'm incredibly excited to be a part of this dynamic research team. Go Seahawks!

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Nina May

Undergraduate student
I am an undergraduate student at the University of North Carolina at Wilmington, majoring in Biology with a minor in Neuroscience and Psychology. Following graduation, I have hopes of pursing a PhD in translational or experimental neuroscience. My research interests focus on the study of neuroendocrinology, and how underlying molecular mechanisms relate to neurodegenerative disease in women. While I do plan on pursuing research for the rest of my life, I one day would love to have the opportunity to shepherd young minds through their own collegiate experience in the form of a professorship.

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Elinor Morkos

Undergraduate student
I am an undergraduate student at the University of North Carolina Wilmington majoring in Pre-Health Biology and Psychology with a minor in Neuroscience. After graduation, I plan to apply to medical school with the goal of specializing in Psychiatry or Neurology. 

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Ashley Kibicho

Undergraduate student
I am an Undergraduate student at the University of North Carolina at Wilmington, majoring in Biology with a pre-health concentration. After graduation, I plan to attend medical school to earn an MD and pursue a career in ophthalmology. I am particularly interested in pediatric and women's care and plan to further specialize in these areas.

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Stephanie Kopec

Undergraduate student
I am an undergraduate student at the University of North Carolina Wilmington majoring in Biology with a minor in Neuroscience. After graduation, I will pursue an M.S. in Physician Assistant Studies to advance my clinical training and prepare for a career in patient care. I plan to specialize in either neurology or women’s health, with hopes to become a travel PA. I am so excited to be a part of this research alongside such a wonderful team!

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Katie Ruttenberg

Undergraduate student
I am an undergraduate student at the University of North Carolina Wilmington majoring in Psychology with a minor in Neuroscience. After graduation, I am interested in pursuing an M.S. in Occupational Therapy. My current research interests focus on neurodegenerative disease and potential treatments to target neurodegeneration. I am beyond excited to be a part of this lab and to work with such an amazing team!

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Makaila Williamson

Undergraduate student
I am an undergraduate student at the University of North Carolina at Wilmington majoring in Biology with a pre-health concentration and minoring in Neuroscience. After graduation, I plan to pursue a medical doctorate and specialize in neurology. I am also interested in conducting research focused on the effects and potential risks of medications on neurodegenerative diseases. Ultimately, my goal is to become a neurosurgeon while continuing to contribute to neuroscience research. 

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