AADOCR NSRG Councilor Candidate 2026-2027
University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine
Philadelphia, PA
Graduation Date: 2028
Reasons for Running
My research experience has shown me how discovery can impact patients and communities, not just through clinical skills, but through science and innovation. From investigating how host genetic dysregulation drives inflammation in juvenile periodontitis to exploring noninvasive, affordable treatments, I’ve found fulfillment as a dental student researcher that I want to share with others. Through my involvement with NSRG thus far, that is exactly what I have done.
I’ve enjoyed mentoring students as they begin their own research journeys, helping them realize that their work can transform lives far beyond their handpieces and burs. I coordinated a recruitment program to introduce undergraduates to dentistry, and after realizing many of them lacked research exposure, I collaborated with our faculty to match students with labs, bridging the gap between curiosity and opportunity.
By providing opportunities for scientific engagement and networking, I helped these students gain their first hands-on research experience. As a current Member-At-Large on the NSRG board, I’ve collaborated with the other NSRG officers to show students nationwide how research can open doors. I aspire to create even more opportunities for student researchers, and as NSRG Councilor, I will continue serving as the bridge between students and their future in research.
Research Conducted / Student Activities
Research Conducted
DMD/MSOB Dual-Degree & Honors Program – Departments of Periodontics, Penn Dental Medicine (2022–2025)
• Investigated LGM2605 in a ligature periodontitis mouse model for gingival barrier protection
• Analyzed LtxA-induced pyroptosis and cytokine release in macrophages (western blot, ELISA)
• Examined MTP/REP1-regulated lipid metabolism in retinal pigment epithelium using iPSC-derived cells and mouse models
• Mentoring undergraduates, presented research at national meetings
Publications
Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans (Aa) Phagocytosis Is Mediated Through Cellugyrin — Under review.
• Investigated cellugyrin-mediated Aa uptake, intracellular trafficking in macrophages to elucidate mechanisms of Grade C molar-incisor pattern periodontitis.
LGM2605: Modulator of Cdt-Induced Cytokines and Osteoclast Differentiation — Published.
• Studied how Aa cytolethal distending toxin (Cdt) alters inflammatory signaling, osteoclastogenesis. Evaluated LGM2605’s ability to reduce cytokine expression, NF-κB activation, osteoclast maturation.
Student Activities
ADEA Student Leader for Social Change Scholar:
Selected for a national leadership program addressing dental disparities through advocacy and community engagement.
National Liaison and Academic Chair, ADEA:
Promoted academic dentistry by connecting students with research fellowships, honors programs, and faculty mentorship.
Founder, DentPath at Penn:
Mentorship program guiding pre-dental undergraduates through research exposure and the application process.
Student Director & Research Coordinator, Introduction to Dentistry Program:
Coordinated mentorship, workshops, and hands-on sessions introducing aspiring dentists to clinical and research pathways.
