Our Team

Research Associates

Katherine Halievski, 2021-present, email

Role: Using my research background in neuroimmunology and chronic pain, I support the Ghasemlou laboratory with the preparation of manuscripts, grants, and more.
Hobbies: rock climbing, hanging out with my cat & dog, acting

A picture of Laurel
Laurel Ballantyne, 2023-present, email

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

Hailey Gowdy (she/her/elle), 2020-present, email

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.

Amanda Zacharias, 2021-present, email

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.

A headshot of Doriana
Doriana Taccardi, 2022-present, email

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!

A headshot of Vina
Vina Li, 2022-present, email

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.

Ciara O’Connor, 2022-present, email

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!

Master's Students

A headshot picture of Ruilin
Ruilin Zhao, 2023-present, email

Project: The role of galectins on neuro-immune interactions in peripheral inflammation and pain.
Hobbies: Table tennis, hiking, and karaoke
Fun fact: I come from the city which is the farthest place from the sea on earth.

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.

A headshot of Mara

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!

Undergraduate Honours Students

A headshot of Manuel smiling

Manuel Machon, 2024-present, email
Project: Investigating the effect of circadian rhythm genes on microglial morphology.
Hobbies: Playing sports, being outdoors, and trying new foods.
Fun fact: My name has been passed down for three generations

Christina Meier

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.