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Ph.D. candidate, Department of Biological Sciences

RESEARCH INTERESTS:

Kelsey works in Edward Glasscock’s lab, where the research primarily focuses on understanding mechanisms related to epilepsy. People with epilepsy are at a 16-fold greater risk of death from a phenomenon called sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP). Despite a basic knowledge of risk factors for SUDEP, its mechanisms remain elusive and poorly understood. Kelsey’s specific research utilizes complex genetic mouse models combined with sophisticated electrophysiology techniques to determine how specific brain circuits may uniquely contribute to SUDEP. This research hopes to identify potential biomarkers that could ultimately result in better personalized care and patient risk stratification.

ROAD TO THE MOODY SCHOOL:
Before her time at °ÄÃÅÁùºÏ²ÊÔ¤²â, Kelsey earned her B.A and M.S in biology from Texas Christian University (TCU). During her undergraduate journey at TCU, she began doing research in a psycho-neuro-immunology lab focused on the relationship between inflammation and Alzheimer’s disease. She stayed on in the same lab after graduation to earn her master’s degree before moving to Dallas to begin her doctoral work at °ÄÃÅÁùºÏ²ÊÔ¤²â. When not in the lab, she loves biking with her mom or playing board games at home with her fiance, Austin; three cats, Sterling, Steel and Jin; and axolotl, Lord Wooper.