Co-Editor-in-Chief: Jaydev Bhateja
Hi everyone! My name is Jay and I’m thrilled to be a senior pursuing a double major in Neuroscience and Computer Science at the UW! I hope to synthesize these two fields and use them to inform each other, improving technology to analyze neural data, and using neural data to inform the way we design vast informational systems like neural networks. I currently work in the Steinmetz lab on the former of these goals, and enjoy exploring vast troves of spikes. It is beyond stimulating to study the two most intelligent entities in the known world.
When I’m not drowning in STEM classes, I love to sing, dance, and write. My culture is a huge part of who I am, and also of what I do: I learn South Asian languages for fun, including Punjabi, Urdu, and Sanskrit. I sing South Asian music, and have danced Kathak for 4 years. You may recognize me in my signature traditional pathani salwar, music in hand, singing or dancing (and sometimes both) on the way to class or lab. If you do, come say hi! :D
Why I joined Grey Matters:
Grey Matters is the most established neuroscience RSO on campus, and has helped me develop my skills in a wide variety of areas, from translating advanced research articles to fundraising and event planning. I cannot help but admire the amazing quality of the work that happens here, and am privileged to be a part of it. I look forward to continuing to make an impact on the UW and Seattle community by growing Grey Matters’ budget, article corpus, and reach. Additionally, I am over the moon about our expansion into a YouTube channel, podcasts, diversity initiatives, and other chapters!
Co-Editor-in-Chief: Brandon Wu
Hi everyone! My name is Brandon and I am a rising senior at UW majoring in public health and neuroscience. My research interests at the Schindler Lab in the VA lie primarily in the intersection of preventative mental health and how neuroscience can be used to address it among our communities. Outside of class or Grey Matters, you can find me promoting health equity in GlobeMed, peer educating for the honors program, or playing my trumpet in the Husky Marching Band! Please always feel welcome to say hi :)
Why I joined Grey Matters:
I joined Grey Matters in my first quarter as a freshman looking to simply explore my academic interests and find community. I wrote my first article on aphantasia and fell in love with neuroscience, returning to write again the following spring. From there I jumped between leadership roles as the marketing manager then as the outreach director, and I can say with certainty that the people I’ve met, the passion I’ve observed, and opportunities Grey Matters has provided throughout these last few years has been nothing short of incredible. Not only has the breadth of everything in the club from journal production to outreach events given a wealth of experience to me, but it has demonstrated the capabilities of both myself and everyone else in this club to truly inspire others from preschoolers to faculty in what neuroscience has to offer in our modern world. I am honored to be a part of this organization, and cannot wait to see what its future holds!
Head of Operations: Khushi Yadav
Hi! My name is Khushi and I'm a junior at UW, majoring in Neuroscience and minoring in disability studies and data science. My favorite things about neuroscience are neuropharmacology, addiction, and neurodegeneration. I currently work in the Bruchas and Stella labs studying the effects of THC in the prefrontal cortex via oral consumption in mice, and have researched amyloid beta's role in Alzheimer’s disease causation and progression in the past. In my spare time, I love to sing and write music, creep myself out by binge watching horror movies, and create an infinite number of schedules and to-do lists to organize my life.
Why I joined Grey Matters:
Ever since I was in elementary school, my favorite two subjects have been science and english, and when I first heard about this club, I was ready to burst with excitement. And while getting to write and read about neuroscience is super cool, what makes Grey Matters unique (and why I love it so much) is that there’s a supportive community here. From discord messages in the middle of the night recommending which classes to take, to being able to hop on a meeting with someone and navigate through work together- everyone is always eager to help. And that energy is carried on to the rest of the community, with Grey Matters always being the first to point out its flaws and constantly taking steps to increase accessibility and understanding for all audiences.
Senior Editor: Eiden Brewer
Hello!!! My name is Eiden, class of 2024, currently majoring in Neuroscience at the UW, with a minor in dance and bioethics. I currently work in a lab that uses stem cell models to do Alzheimer’s Disease research, and I work with CRISPR-Cas-9 and other new methods that are new and exciting in the science fields. I am especially interested in studying neurodegenerative diseases in order to slow and eventually prevent their onset. In my free time, I love dancing (especially tap dance!) and reading books, either about the brain or some good romance novels.
Why I joined Grey Matters:
Watching the articles come together and seeing the physical products. I love seeing the starting draft of an article and watch it turn into a powerful and educational article, and have something so complicated get explained in an engaging way. Grey Matters allowed me to find a community of like minded people who are just as passionate about learning and the brain as I am!
Design Director, Journal Club Coordinator, Production Manager: Srinidhi Naidu
Hello! My name is Srinidhi Naidu, and I’m a first year intending to double major in neuroscience and applied computation mathematical sciences, with minors in physics and neural computation and engineering. My current research interests are in studying dynamic large-scale population encoding of motion in retinal ganglion cell populations in low light conditions using multielectrode array recordings in the primate retina. Outside of academics, I love spending time at the climbing gym, being outdoors with friends, and occasionally jumping into the Montlake Cut.
Why I joined Grey Matters:
I found out about Grey Matters the summer before my freshman year at UW, and after reading through one of the journals, I knew that this was an RSO that I wanted to be really involved in. As a freshman and sophomore, I feel like it's really hard to find a solid community of neuroscience majors, and outside of my research lab, Grey Matters was the first place where I truly felt like I had found a community of like-minded students who shared a love for learning and sharing knowledge. Grey Matters’s mission is to make science accessible to the general public, and as a part of this RSO, I’ve seen the multitude of ways that we as undergraduates can make an impact on the UW and surrounding Seattle community. I’m really proud to be a part of this RSO, and I’m excited for this upcoming school year!
Finance Director: Rishabh Chowhan
Hey y’all! My name is Rishabh Chowhan, and I’m a fourth-year student in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, intending to double major in Neuroscience. I am especially interested in research related to neurodegenerative diseases and neurosurgery, and I plan on going to medical school to hopefully become a neurosurgeon one day! In my spare time, I watch anime, build legos, skate (not very well), listen to music, and draw!
I’m from the Bay Area in California, and although it’s my second year on campus, I still feel like I have so much to explore in Seattle and the surrounding areas! I'm trying to meet as many people as possible, so if you’re ever bored or want to explore parts of Seattle definitely reach out! I’m super psyched for this year, and I’m looking forward to meeting everyone soon! Have an amazing year, and say hi if you see me on campus!
Why I joined Grey Matters:
I’ve always been passionate about science and although I’ve been especially interested in neuroscience, the field seemed particularly intimidating to me. I felt this even more so at UW, so I was looking for a community where I could comfortably learn more about neuroscience, engage with others who are equally passionate about the field and feel less of the cutthroat pressure and more support. Grey Matters checked off all those boxes for me because of how this group of passionate individuals facilitates a beautiful STEM/Humanities intersection, weaving together science, art, and writing, all to make neuroscience more accessible!
Diversity Director: Yahir Gonzalez
Hello friends! My name is Yahir and I am a sophomore looking to major in neuroscience or biology on the pre-medicine track. I currently work with the Golden Lab studying the neural mechanisms of aggression, addiction, and depression with an emphasis on social defeat stress. I am interested in how historical trauma and current systemic injustices play a role in the psychiatric disorders that marginalized populations (particularly in rural areas) develop and the destigmatization of treatment for such disorders in these communities. Outside of academics I really enjoy spending time in community - whether that be attending concerts, playing sports, or taking names in Super Smash Bros. If you have any questions about joining the Outreach Team, please do not hesitate to reach out! :)
Why I joined Grey Matters:
Accessibility and equity have always been at the forefront of all my efforts, I often found myself invested in collectives with the mission of uplifting the human condition. Grey Matters is no different in their goal to make neuroscience accessible for all. Coming from an underrepresented background myself, when I learned that I could be involved in the development of a project that would encourage underserved communities to pursue their interests in neuroscience - I knew I had to jump at the opportunity! In the words of one of my favorite activists, Dr. Angela Davis, “It is in collectivities that we find reservoirs of hope and optimism.” Similarly, I believe that Grey Matters is doing their part in building a future where science is more inclusive and accessible for everyone, regardless of their background - and to me, this is something worth celebrating.
Marketing Director: Zainab Nasir
Hi! My name is Zainab, and I’m a sophomore intending to major in Neuro, minoring in Bioethics, Computational Neuro, and Data Science! I’m currently part of the Schwartz Lab at the UW Medicine Diabetes Institute and analyzing data as part of the GRID Lab at UW Neurosurgery. I love rating and exploring new places in the city, watching k-dramas, and drinking excessive amounts of coffee!
Why I joined Grey Matters:
Initially, I joined Grey Matters as an editor, because I was too nervous to start writing. I stayed on as an editor for two more quarters because I loved the community it brought and the new topics I was learning about throughout the editing process. Grey Matters allowed me to learn about more complicated neuroscience topics with a community of people who shared similar interests with me. I am excited to be part of the Grey Matters Marketing team, where I can expand sharing my interests with the UW community alongside all of you!
Art Director: Di Mao
Hi, I’m a third-year studying computer science! Academically, I’m interested in using computational methods to build biomedical imaging tools. In my spare time, I listen to a lot of music, mostly kpop, and I love to create art, especially using oil paints!
Why I joined Grey Matters:
Before UW, art was one of my most loved hobbies! Furthermore, I was always interested in the life sciences, but never explored neuroscience. Therefore, upon hearing about potentially being a Grey Matters artist, I was extremely interested in joining! Since then, it has been an extremely fun and productive way to continue a hobby of mine, make new friends, and learn more about neuroscience. For instance, I’ve learned how imaging the brain leads to large amounts of/big data. Storing and analyzing that big data is a continuing problem in neuroscience that interests me!
Outreach Director: Maeve Bottoms
Hi! I’m Maeve, and I am a junior intending to major in Neuroscience, with minors in Spanish as well as Neural Computation and Engineering. I am also an undergraduate researcher in the Mizumori Lab at the UW investigating neural circuits underlying learning and memory. Outside of academics, I love to disc golf, cook, and work on my collection of houseplants!
Why I joined Grey Matters:
I joined Grey Matters outreach at the end of my first year, and even though I wasn't entirely sure I wanted to pursue neuroscience at the time, going to the events and teaching high schoolers was incredibly rewarding. I eventually branched into all aspects of Grey Matters, including the journal, and continue to contribute however I can to this amazing RSO. The variety within the organization makes it easy to find what you’re passionate about within the realm of neuroscience, and the community of people is consistently supportive and entertaining to be a part of.
Social Media Director, Store Officer: Amy Bosch
Hi! I’m Amy Bosch and I am a junior intending on majoring in Public Health or Biology with a minor in Entrepreneurship. As of now, I am on the pre-med route but am currently exploring other careers within health. My freshman year, I took an intro to psych class which eventually led to a developing interest in neuroscience, particularly behavioral neuroscience. I soon discovered Grey Matters at UW and eventually the supportive environment that comprises it.
Outside of class, I enjoy exploring Seattle (rain or shine), baking, and trying new foods!
Why I joined Grey Matters:
Through Grey Matters, I’ve been able to connect with other students that share similar interests as me in a collaborative and encouraging environment. While I initially joined as an editor, I wanted to become more involved with the club which led me to joining the social media team. While social media is adaptive, it has continued to maintain its integral role in promotion and outreach. I’ve found that being part of this team has challenged me to explore my interests further and I am continually inspired by the other interests and experiences of past and current members. I am looking forward to becoming more involved within the club this year :))
Website Director: Trevor Spane
Hi! My name is Trevor. I am a sophomore intending to major in computer science and minor in disability studies. I am the president of a start-up focusing on providing tools and services for mobility-impaired and neurodivergent people. As a passionate advocate for universal design and accessibility, I spend my time working to make the digital world a more inclusive place. I believe that everyone should have access to technology and that it should be designed to meet the needs of all users, regardless of their abilities.
In my work, I have focused on ensuring that digital products and services comply with WCAG guidelines and understanding how to create accessible interfaces and content.
My interest in neuroscience has also been a driving force in my work. I am fascinated by the workings of the brain. Specifically how it processes and retains information. I believe that insights from neuroscience can be used to create more effective and engaging user experiences.
I first joined Grey Matters as an Author and Website Officer. Grey Matters has allowed me to practice communicating and collaborating with a diverse group of people in settings I likely wouldn’t otherwise. Gray Matters has shown me alternate perspectives I’m not always exposed to, positively influencing how I think about Complex issues.
Editing Coordinator: Mikko Epstein-O’Rourke
Hey! My name is Mikko, and I’m a junior majoring in Neuroscience with a minor in Neural Computation & Engineering. I am currently a part of the Buffalo Lab at the WANPRC, studying spatial learning & memory in the hippocampus by way of primate electrophysiology. My project currently is investigating previous behavioral and neural data to discern whether there is an impact on free-viewing tasks (eye movements) with age. I’m super interested in optogenetics, computational neuroscience, and the usage of eye tracking as a metric for memory. In my free time, I love to go mountaineering, garden, and spend way too much time on Duolingo learning different languages. My Duolingo streak as of today: 117 days.
Why I joined Grey Matters:
I love being a part of Grey Matters because it’s a rewarding opportunity to engage with a diverse group of students who all share a passion for neuroscience. Although we all might come from different walks of life, I can count on having both academically challenging and interesting conversations with almost any member I meet. Grey Matters has allowed me to put my own interest in neuroscience into creating free-to-access educational content for anyone who might have a similar passion in this extraordinarily nuanced subject.
Production Manager, Social Media Officer: Phoenix Davis
Hi y’all! My name is Phoenix. I’m a Senior majoring in Biochemistry. I’m currently researching at the Bruchas Lab helping to uncover the neurological relationship between stress and binge eating as well as new project I will be taking on studying the role of Neuropeptide S in natural and drug seeking behaviors specifically within the release of NPS from the locus coeruleus to the orbitofrontal cortex. I have a tremendous passion for studying the biochemical mechanisms behind addiction and mental illness in the brain and the possible pharmacological treatments for said diseases .Currently, so much about the brain has yet to be discovered, especially within my specific interest. Being able to pioneer a new frontier that has the ability to benefit an astounding number of people is why I fell in love with neuroscience.
When I’m not in class, the lab, or volunteering you can find me playing violin in the Campus Philharmonic Orchestra, reading a good book, beating everyone at Mario Kart, or snuggling up with my cat for a nap.
Why I joined Grey Matters:
Grey Matters is an astounding RSO determined to expose undergraduates and people of the community to neuroscience through group discussions of science research topics, public events, and even allows undergraduates to write on relevant subjects they find fascinating. The initial thing that drew me to Grey Matters was the exquisite quality and accessibility of their articles. It was even more astounding that all of the production was done by undergraduates. My first quarter I decided to take a leap of faith and ended up writing my own article. I loved the experience, and have been involved with Grey Matters ever since. Grey Matters has helped me develop my ability to analyze sometimes daunting and dense scientific research papers, and translate them into something artistically creative and beautiful. I have also learned how to successfully work with a team, and made numerous friends through the process. I am excited to see Grey Matters continuously expand and reach more and more people around Seattle.
Events Coordinator, Production Manager: Emma D’cessare
Hey everyone! My name is Emma and I am a junior majoring in Neuroscience with a minor in Anthropology. I am also a student researcher in the Hofstetter-Khaing Lab at the Department of Neurological Surgery focusing on exploring the mechanisms behind the spiny mouse’s full regeneration of CNS cells post-injury. Outside of academics and lab, I love composing and playing music, volunteering at nursing homes, and doting over animals of every kind!
Why I joined Grey Matters:
When I first came to UW in Autumn of 2021, I was very excited to delve further into the field of neuroscience. When I came across Grey Matters, I knew I had to join in order to become a part of a group of students like me, passionate and dedicated to the field of neuroscience. I really became involved in the club when I first volunteered for EWN. It was an absolutely wonderful night and I had a blast getting in touch with other neuroscience students. I could feel the club's teamwork and love for both the field and for each other. From here, I became an journal author and editor, and am involved in the EWN planning committee, experiences that have greatly strengthened my teamwork and leadership skills. Neuroscience is my passion, and I am honored to be a part of this neuroscience family.
Production Manager: Eric Lassiter
Hey there, my name is Eric and I am a junior majoring in neuroscience here at UW. I've had a little bit of an alternative route out of high school, having entered the workforce for a few years prior to finding my passion for learning and turning towards higher education, therefore I love connecting with others to break down the concept of a perfect path towards one's goal. The driving force behind this redirection was simply a fascination and curiosity to comprehend how we are capable of interpreting, moving through, and responding to the world around us. Likewise, I find great purpose in the impact that having this knowledge can make in helping correct neurologic malfunction and disease. Consequently, if I'm not found studying on campus then I am typically helping out in the Ferreira Lab in the department of Neurological Surgery at UWMC, a lab focused on identifying the genetic and molecular signatures of various skull-base tumors to promote novel therapeutics. On the weekends I work as an EMT in the south King County area and, in the midst of this busy schedule, I love to climb indoors as a member of the UW climbing team.
Why I joined Grey Matters:
After transferring from to UW from the community college I attended, I was really looking for a community of peers that shared my interest for neuroscience and offered a space to grow in the knowledge I had thus far. Beyond my love for the subject matter, I was truly drawn to the welcoming environment that Grey Matters presented for not only UW students but for the general public viewership and high school students through outreach events. The field of STEM, neuroscience especially, can seem quite daunting and taboo to enter and admit to any lack of understanding, so I really valued the space that Grey Matters provides to create an environment where it is acceptable to not know or understand just yet.
Production Manager: Abbey Regan
Hi! My name is Abbey, I’m a junior majoring in computer science and minoring in music and neural computation & engineering. I’m mainly interested in the intersection of genetics and computing, but I’ve always enjoyed neuroscience and learning more about the brain. I currently do research in the Dichek lab analyzing cell-cell interactions and the genetic effects of certain mutations on aneurysms in mice using algorithms and other fun computational stuff. In my free time, I love drawing and classical music and am a member of the UW guitar ensemble!
Why I joined Grey Matters:
Writing and research are two things that go hand in hand, and being a member of Grey Matters has given me the opportunity to learn so much more about scientific writing and how to actually write intelligibly. I really love the opportunity that I’ve had through Grey Matters to both work on my own writing skills and help others improve their writing skills as well! <3
Production Manager: Ashley Sciocchetti
Hey! I’m a first-year intending to major in neuroscience or biochemistry. I am interested in pursuing a career related to research on the mechanisms behind neurodegenerative diseases and I am also passionate about support for those suffering from these diseases. I work with a new program within the Alzheimer’s Association called the Purple Ambassadors, whose goal is to strengthen volunteer engagement among youth throughout the year. I am hoping this will help create a powerful and inspired field of young neuroscientists and advocates determined to fight against Alzheimer’s and other dementias. I am currently doing research on C. elegans for the Kraemer Lab, which investigates the association between proteins associated with neurodegeneration and how various mutations affect neural function.
Outside of neuroscience-related activities, I run a vegan club at UW to both advocate for increased veganism on campus and also educate people about a vegan lifestyle. I have a bunny named Muffin (he is my baby) and I really love peanut butter (like so much).
Why I joined Grey Matters:
I joined Grey Matters because I agree strongly that neuroscience is for everyone and we should work to make it more accessible. I love exploring different positions within GM, especially the outreach positions. There is something particularly rewarding about sharing your passion with younger students who may just be inspired to pursue neuroscience, as well. Grey Matters has given me an opportunity to expand my communication and leadership skills, and I look forward to meetings because they give me the chance to perform meaningful work with like-minded individuals. Grey Matters convinces me that altruism exists.
Production Manager: Amy Lin
Hi everyone! My name is Amy and I’m a sophomore majoring in neuroscience with a minor in informatics. I am especially interested in neuroplasticity and neuropharmacology, two fields which are rapidly advancing as today’s research reveals new avenues in medical treatment. Currently, I work as an undergraduate researcher at the Moorjani Lab, where I assess the effect of neuromodulatory therapies on the motor recovery of rats with chronic spinal cord injury. Outside of academics, you can find me at the IMA or trying out new restaurants for my #finger-licking #foodstagram.
Why I joined Grey Matters:
Ever since I took my first biology class in eighth grade, I have been fascinated by the intricate, microscopic world of molecules and cells. Even more so was I intrigued by the brain, an organ that is notoriously shrouded in mystery despite its role in powering almost all intelligent life. Upon entering UW, I knew I wanted to find answers to my many questions in neuroscience, but I struggled to find opportunities as a first-year who had no prior experience in the field. It was during that winter quarter that I stumbled upon Grey Matters. As an author and editor in article production, I dived into niche neuroscience topics with the support of peers who were similarly passionate about neuroscience. Publishing scientific articles taught me scientific literacy, writing skills, and the interdisciplinary nature of neuroscience - things which are incredibly important for anyone interested in exploring the subject. Grey Matters also offered me plentiful opportunities to share my love for neuroscience with others, which is something I deeply care about. The community here is so absolutely kind and supportive, and I'm excited to meet everyone as the years go on!
Production Manager: Michael Li
Hi everyone! My name is Michael and I’m a junior at UW majoring in Biochemistry and History. I’m currently part of the Davis Lab at UW and I just started working as a medical scribe at the Swedish Mill Creek ER. I hope to go to med school and one day become a very cool and awesome doctor. In my spare time, I enjoy playing and watching soccer. I grew up in Bellevue and I love being in Seattle and at UW.
Why I joined Grey Matters:
I joined Grey Matters as a freshman in 2020. I attended their online Dawg Daze event, and I was fascinated by everything that they had to present. I have written and edited a lot of articles for Grey Matters, and I feel that participating in the article process has greatly improved my scientific literacy and communication skills. I’ve also loved being part of the Grey Matters community, and helping to keep fostering the community is probably my main reason for joining leadership!
Content Manager, Outreach Officer: Brielle Arnold
Hi! My name is Brielle Arnold and I am a second-year at UW majoring in neuroscience with minors in writing and bioethics. I am fascinated with the dynamic capabilities of the central nervous system, inspiring my current role as an undergraduate researcher in the Moorjani Lab studying the electrophysiology of chronic spinal cord injury and its treatments. When I’m not at lab or in class, I love to get outside, write, read, make coffee, cook, or jam out to music!
Why I joined Grey Matters:
Improving scientific literacy is a passion of mine, matching perfectly with Grey Matters’ mission of making scientific information more accessible. The highlight of my undergraduate experience so far has been the Grey Matters outreach team. It is so rewarding to share neuroscience knowledge and college advice with local high school students. The more I got plugged into Grey Matters, the more I found myself surrounded by a community with passions similar to mine, but in varying disciplines such as art, philosophy, writing, computer science, and more. I’m honored to be a leader on this team, and excited to create neuroscience content that highlights the tireless, humble, and inspirational work of the people on this team.
Store Manager: Angele Boulanger
Hi everyone! My name is Angele and I am a first year student intending to major in neuroscience. What interests me most about the brain is drug addiction and human behavior. My interests led me to conduct undergraduate research at the Basso Lab. This helped me learn so many cool things such as immunostaining, brain slicing, viewing surgeries, and constructing MRIs for brain reconstructions. A future project that we’re planning is establishing a chemogenetic method along with non-human primates to study neural circuits involved in decision making. When I’m not studying or in the lab, I love spending my time with my friends and family.
Why I joined Grey Matters:
Since I’m a freshman, I joined Grey Matters to surround myself with people who have similar interests as me. Pushing myself onto the leadership team helped me stay engaged and keep up with new things! Grey Matters Journal offers so many positions to grow and learn new things along with hosting many volunteer opportunities. I can’t wait to grow as a student along with Grey Matters. What I love most is how we welcome any majors who are interested in the large world of neuroscience. You don’t have to be a STEM major to enjoy some fun facts about the brain! I’m especially excited for EWN this upcoming May, which hosts many interactive neuroscience activities for every student to explore.
Design Officer: Annie Lee
Hello everyone! My name is Annie, a senior majoring in Biology-Physiology at UW and on a pre-dental track. I have taken some neuroscience classes in the past, which got me interested in neurobiology. I work at Dr.Chi lab for UWSOD as a research assistant, where I get to assist dentists giving free dental exams to specific populations and use the data to see how income levels, mental health, diet, age and other factors play into oral health. I also work at Dr. Kim’s dental office as a dental assistant. In my free time, I like to walk around while listening to music, hang out with friends, and drink good coffee or boba!
Why I joined Grey Matters:
Taking Neurobio/psychology classes enlightened me about the beauty and complexity of the human brain and its functions. I see the need to educate people about psychology and neuroscience that is easy for the general public to understand. Grey Matters bases this mission statement and strives to make overwhelming scientific journals more easy and accessible. Everyone in this community has passion for what they do, and are very close to each other. Designing has always been what I wanted to take part of during my college years, so joining Grey Matters and taking a part of as a design officer has been a great journey so far!
Marketing Officer: Esha Patel
Hello! My name is Esha Patel and I am a junior at the UW studying Neuroscience and minoring in Bioethics. I contribute to Pediatric Bioethics research at Seattle Children’s as well as the Clelland Lab at UCSF which is creating CRISPR gene editing therapies for neurodegenerative diseases. My interests within the Neuroscience field are in early brain development and neuroethics, but the field continues to surprise me with its different applications and research! Neuroscience beautifully integrates medicine and humanities and personally uncovers a new appreciation for human thought and behavior. I am grateful to be constantly learning and growing from my mentors in labs, classes and the Grey Matters team. In my spare time, you will find me practicing photography, exploring new parts of the city, and trying new breakfast spots!
Why I joined Grey Matters:
My first interaction with Grey Matters was as an attendee at a journal club meeting. I vividly remember feeling clueless about the content and nervous about what I would say if the presenter called on me to answer a question. However, I walked away feeling very welcomed into the Neuroscience community on campus and curious to learn more despite the intimidating nature of many research topics. For me, Grey Matters serves as a close-knit community where I can openly ask questions free of judgment, discover new interests and build scientific writing skills, and most importantly build quality relationships with peers who share similar goals and values. I look forward to writing and editing more articles for the Grey Matters Journal and leading fun marketing projects. I am so happy to be on this wonderful team and excited for all that is to come!
Podcast Officer: Sid Dharap
Hi everyone! My name is Sid Dharap and I’m a sophomore interested in studying Neuroscience and Philosophy. I love neuroscience because the field offers a truly introspective outlook into our humanity. Whether it’s artistic skill, being a chess grandmaster, or the CEO of 3 different companies, each of our brain’s tick differently. These distinctions make us unique and human. But even within this vast frontier, I hope to focus on the study of neurological diseases and disorders– after all, I was first pulled into the world of neuroscience through my brother’s seizures. I currently work at the Carlson Lab here in Seattle to examine cerebellar structure and changes that occur in those with Alzheimers, with the intent of understanding how Alzheimer’s is caused and how we can better treat it. I know that making advancements in this facet of neuroscience will make an impact on how future generations live their lives and I am excited to (hopefully!) be part of it. In my spare time, I’m stuck in a book or TV show, play basketball or volleyball with friends, or just explore whatever piques my interest.
Why I joined Grey Matters:
I joined Grey Matters because I love writing, I love neuroscience, and GM is the perfect combination of both. Through Grey Matters I have been able to fully express my love for neuroscience through writing and spread things I find interesting about it to others. Through outreach events and production, I’ve been able to connect with others about their love for neuroscience and put myself out there to embrace my passion and build new skills.
Finance Director: Aditi Subramanyam
Hi! I’m Aditi Subramanyam and I’m a junior majoring in neuroscience with a minor in computational neuro and engineering! I’m interested in studying neurodegenerative diseases which lead me to my research in the Bai Lab where I study factors impacting neuronal integrity and I also assist with clinical trials regarding Alzheimers at Harborview! In my spare time, I like trying new coffee shops & cafes, dancing (I’m on the UW Raas team), and hanging out with friends!
Why I joined Grey Matters:
I had first joined Grey Matters as an editor freshman year as well as the outreach team on EWN and stayed on both of these my first 2 years as I loved reading about the diverse areas of neuroscience students were exploring as well as reaching out to a variety of communities all tied to one common interest: the brain and its mysteries. I’m glad to have found a close-knit community of those with the same questions that I do, exploring all possible avenues in neuroscience, and one excited to share that knowledge with the world!
Senior Podcast Officer: Raiyan Khan
Hello everyone! My name is Raiyan (I’m the one on the right in the photo) and I’m a sophomore pursuing a major in computer science with a minor in biology. I’m currently researching genetically modified strains of the bacteria Rhodopseudomonas palustris and measuring bacterial fitness under various environmental conditions at the Harwood Laboratory. One of my main interests is neuroscience, specifically in the cellular and molecular aspects. I also love working with computers in all facets, programming, audio/visual production, and editing! Outside of STEM, I’m a huge fan of history, jurisprudence, and philosophy and I frequently spend my free time reading about these subjects. For recreational activities, I like fishing and swimming.
Why I joined Grey Matters:
Being new on the team, what attracted me most to Grey Matters was its core idea of making scientific information more accessible to everyone and the clubs high quality of work, artwork, writing, design, and organization, which I found unique to Grey Matters. It’s a great intersection of my interests, when it comes to neuroscience and computers, and has helped me develop my skills of editing, directing production groups, and management.
Art Officer: Sasha Kravchuk
Hey everyone! My name is Sasha, and I’m a senior majoring in Biology (Molecular, Cellular, Developmental) and Neuroscience. I am particularly interested in how the brain performs its numerous functions on a cellular level, which led me to my current work at the Singhvi Lab where we study the molecular mechanisms underlying glial-neuron interactions in C. elegans. Outside of school and lab, I love reading (especially fantasy and historical fiction), exploring the PNW’s great outdoors, concocting new desserts and, of course, creating art!
I am extremely passionate about the intersection between science and art, having initially been drawn to biology through painting natural landscapes and seeing beautiful fluorescence microscopy images. As an artist, I wondered how I could interpret biology through an illustrative lens to share my scientific curiosity and encourage it in others. When I found Grey Matters – an organization blending science and art with the goal of fostering public engagement – at my own university, it felt a bit as if stars were aligning. I joined journal production as an artist the fall of my freshman year, and have never looked back. Three years later, I have learned to work with teams of writers/editors to create informative scientific illustrations, developed as an artist, and met incredible people along the way. The chance to continue sharing my enthusiasm for neuroscience as a leader with this lovely team of humans is something I greatly look forward to.
Outreach Officer: Lana Gonzalez
Hi! I’m currently a sophomore studying psychology on a pre-med track. I’m passionate about the brain, mind, and mental health and am hoping to become a psychiatrist someday. I am most interested in how the physical structures of the brain give way to the experience of consciousness and hope to do work that will help combat the stigma surrounding mental health and promote the diversity of subjective conscious experiences. I’m currently part of an undergraduate research group working on a study exploring cultural impacts on the perception and use of birth control. Outside of academics, I love hiking, reading, and drawing/painting!
Why I joined Grey Matters:
I initially joined Grey Matters because I love learning about neuroscience and have always enjoyed scientific journalism and the concept of increasing accessibility of scientific information for people of all backgrounds. I had experience editing that I’d really enjoyed, so I joined as an editor and then learned about the outreach team, which promotes accessibility of neuroscience education in a whole new avenue that incorporates the opportunity to mentor younger students! These opportunities have allowed me to improve and develop my skills as a writer/editor as well as made me more confident speaking in front of people and providing guidance to younger students. I have also loved the sense of community I’ve found here!
Finance Officer: Henry Wang
Hi all! My name is Henry and I’m first year engineering student. To me, I feel thrilled to learn about how neurobiology tend to teach us more about what we previously did not know about our brain than we thought we knew–where, to my area of interest, it is actually the neurodegenerative disease part of our human brain. I am currently in a research assistant position at the Young lab, UW SLU, and our main goal is to use iPSCs-derived models to understand the onset of Alzheimer Disease. Meanwhile, I hope that my part of the lab experience can contribute to my engineering career in creating accessible early markers detection device for AD. I think neuroscience is an integrative science, where the culmination of molecular biology, philosophy, and medicine can let use know how our brain influences our acts and living experience. When I am not doing school-realted activity, you can see strolling around the campus, collecting second-handed books from bookstores, or exploring Seattle’s coffee shops.
Why I joined Grey Matters:
I joined the Grey Matter Journal for my belief in GMJ’s mission on creating neuroscience more accessible. Beyond the stunning journal production each qaurter, Grey Matter Journal has done incredible outreach programs and big events such as the Evening With Neuroscience to welcome people to engage and share their passion for neruoscience. Initially, I joined Grey Matter Journal as an editor, and it was when I learned the endevaor that GMJ’s leadership team has put into creating digestible contents for any person. Read our productions, subscribe to our social media, and stay tuned for any upcoming events from us!
Journal Club Coordinator: Eden McPeek
Hello, I’m Eden, a freshman intending to major in psychology with an interest in cognitive science. I’m fascinated by the biological approach and therefore love all the nitty-gritty details about the brain—particularly, I’m interested in substance use, addiction recovery, and neurodivergency. This year, I hope to get involved in research on campus related to these topics. In my spare time, I enjoy reading research, as well as books about non-fiction, sc-fi, fantasy, memoirs, and the human experience. Most other times I can be found laboring away at digital art commissions, strategizing my weekly schedule, or quietly raving to music that’s between 160-200 BPM.
Why I joined Grey Matters:
After attending Grey Matters’ 2023 Dawg Daze event, which included a live human brain dissection, I was incredibly intrigued. The club’s core mission of democratizing neuroscience to the public in a digestible and artistic format further appealed to me, so I joined as an editor on the journal production team. I also wanted to find a community of people passionate about research, and being involved in Journal Club seemed like the perfect fit to find like-minded students!
