NEC Alumni Pursue Advanced Degrees in Health Fields After INBRE Research Experience

Four NEC alumni are making strides in health sciences, propelled by their undergraduate research through the NH-INBRE Summer Undergraduate Research Program (SURP). Funded by the National Institutes of Health, SURP offers students hands-on biomedical research opportunities alongside faculty mentors.

YaXi Stapp, BA in Kinesiology ’22, explored circadian rhythms of locomotion in the sea slug Berghia under Dr. Jim Newcomb. She is now pursuing a Doctor of Physical Therapy at Plymouth State University.

Kaylee Cross, BS in Biology ’22, investigated the localization of opsins in Berghia’s central nervous system. Her research experience led her to a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program at Michigan State University.

Caitlyn McGhee, BS in Health Science ’21, studied extraocular photoreception in Berghia with Dr. Newcomb. She is currently enrolled in an MD program at St. George’s University.

Connor Dunn, BS in Health Science ’22, examined circadian rhythms in Berghia and plasma membrane-endoplasmic reticulum junctions in Aplysia. He is now pursuing a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine at Rocky Vista University in Colorado.

Since joining the NH-INBRE network, NEC has received $3.7 million in grants, supporting faculty and student biomedical research. These investments have cultivated a robust research culture, preparing students for advanced studies and careers in health sciences.

Learn more about NEC’s INBRE research initiatives.

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