Our Team
Research Associates
Role: Ensuring the lab runs safely and smoothly, as well as examining the role of galectins in peripheral inflammation/pain.
Hobbies: Parenting, volleyball, reading, and catching live music when possible.
Fun fact: I’m in a music video with over 4,000 views on YouTube!
Graduate Students
PhD Students
Project: Epidemiological studies concerning the circadian control of pain in chronic (CircaPain) and acute states.
Hobbies: Swimming, reading, and getting overly invested in Jeopardy!
Fun fact: I once met a goat that was on Game of Thrones. He was delightful.
Project: Multi-omics of neuroimmunology and pain
Hobbies: Hanging out with my cat and learning web-development.
Fun fact: I think water bears (tardigrades) are very cool.
Project: Circadian rhythmicity in biopsychosocial outcomes of Chronic Pain, Multiple Sclerosis and Mental Illnesses. Learn about CircaMS: link!
Hobbies: I’ve played roller hockey professionally since I was 9 years old. Yoga and meditation
Fun fact: Although I’m from Italy, I love Canada, snow and cold weather!
Project: The role of circadian rhythms in animal models of multiple sclerosis.
Hobbies: camping, hiking, puzzles and legos. Occasionally I make fun snacks for both me and my cat.
Fun fact: I used to care for a green fluorescent axolotl.
Project: Examining the potential role of glial circadian rhythms in chronic pain.
Hobbies: Rowing and curling
Fun fact: I cheer for every Boston team, except the Bruins. Go leafs!
Natalie Wilcox, 2022-present, email
Project: Investigating promotors of neuron growth causing allodynia in spared nerve injury model.
Hobbies: Backcountry camping and indoor rock climbing.
Fun fact: I grew up 6,000 feet above sea level.
Master's Students
Mara Majer, 2024-present, email
Project: Circadian rhythms and pain in Multiple Sclerosis.
Hobbies: Going to concerts, hanging out with friends, and reading.
Fun fact: I lived in Shanghai during high school!
Christina Meier, 2024-present, email
Project: Bioinformatic analysis of neuroimmunology and circadian rhythms.
Hobbies: I love swimming, finding new music and traveling.
Fun fact: I’ve been to the Great Wall of China.
Undergraduate Volunteers
Joey Lauer, 2026-present, email
Project: Assisting Vina with the study of circadian rhythms in multiple sclerosis.
Hobbies: I love playing volleyball, swimming, going on nature walks and learning more about random science facts.
Fun fact: We have 2 cats at my student hours (Japser and Durk).