Graduate Students
Dr. Christi Turner
Quantitative and Systems Biology Graduate Group
My research is focused on understanding how CXCR5+ CD8 T follicular cells shift their dynamics in response to systemic lupus erythematosus. We are interested in understanding their phenotypic expression in response to tolerance and dysfunction. A second part of my research is focused on better understanding CXCR5+ CD8 Tfc cells and other immune cell responses after checkpoint blockade therapy and how these cells might be leading to the development of immune related adverse events. Our hope is to unveil insightful mysteries that lead to better treatment outcomes for patients.
Fun fact: I truly enjoy the outdoors and am an avid “fisherwoman."
M.S. in Biomedical Science, Western University of Health Sciences 2016
B.S. in Biology, Oral Roberts University 2009
Nadia Delgadillo Miranda, PhD Candidate (5th year)
Quantitative and Systems Biology Graduate Group
Project: I am investigating immunological memory and granuloma formation in Valley fever patients. Our goal is to understand the differences between acute and chronic patients after diagnosis.
Fun fact: I have a first-degree black belt in Kenpo Karate and another black belt in Arnis. I also like to play video games with my lab mates in my spare time.
CSU San Marcos, Bachelor's of Science in Biotechnology 2019
Susana Tejeda-Garibay, PhD Candidate (5th year)
Quantitative and Systems Biology Graduate Group
Project: I study how the interface between the lung, Coccidioides, and the microbiome influences host innate and adaptive immune responses. Because of poor testing strategies 60-80% of patients are treated with antibiotics prior to accurate diagnosis of coccidioidomycosis. This potentially depletes bacteria with symbiotic relationships within the lung microenvironment and promotes susceptibility to invasion by Coccidioides. These findings could shape the way physicians assess prescription of antibiotics prior to fungal diagnosis.
Fun fact: I played soccer for 6 years and coached for 2.
B.S. in Human Biology, minor in Psychology, UC Merced 2019
Arianna Daniel, PhD Candidate(3rd Year)
Quantitative and Systems Biology Graduate Group
adaniel11@ucmerced.edu
Fun Fact: I enjoy DIY projects, fruit snacks and kombucha
B.S. in Biology, minor in Psychology, Southern Oregon University 2021
Adeola Fagbayibo, PhD Student (2nd Year)
Quantitative and Systems Biology Graduate Group
afagbayibo@ucmerced.edu
Project: My project is focused on understanding the interactions between the host microbiome and Coccidioides. We aim to investigate how these interactions influence the immune response and ultimately disease outcomes.
Fun fact: I love listening to Bad Bunny. My favorite song is "Titi me pregunto"
B.S in Microbiology and Immunology, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria 2019
Undergraduate Researchers
Maria Pimentel
B.S. in Human Biology and Chemical Sciences, expected graduation May 2024
Project: I analyze primary articles and research papers about coccidioidomycosis, also known as Valley fever. I use this information to create summaries more accessible to the community. I also translate that information into Spanish to reach a larger community.
Fun fact: I am a member of Phi Mu and I am a Vegetarian.
Vikram Senthil
Info under construction...