Lab members

Melodie Bui (Post-Bac Research Assistant)

Melodie recently earned her B.S. in Human Physiology at the University of Iowa. She's excited to explore the relationship between inter-organ metabolism and the gut microbiome, and how these processes influence cardiovascular and metabolic disease. In her free time, she likes to play tennis, paint, fold origami, and add movie reviews to her Letterboxd.

Vishruth Pinna (GCRU fellow)

Vishruth is an undergraduate student at the University of Iowa majoring in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. He is interested in studying the molecular and metabolic mechanisms that contribute to disease, particularly how changes in cellular metabolism can influence cardiovascular disease and cancer. In his free time he enjoys playing tennis, volleyball, and hanging out with friends.

Blake Burkey (GCRU fellow)

Blake is an undergraduate at the University of Iowa majoring in biology. He is interested in studying diseases such as diabetes and cancer, along with the underlying metabolic pathways. In his free time, he enjoys playing guitar and watching soccer. 

Derek Samuel (GCRU fellow)

Derek is an undergraduate student at the University of Iowa majoring in Biology. He is interested in researching metabolic pathways and their contribution to the development of metabolic diseases by utilizing animal models. In his free time, he enjoys fishing, gardening, and trying new recipes.

Bella Merryman (GCRU fellow)

Bella is an undergraduate at the University of Iowa majoring in Biology. She is interested in studying how metabolic functions can contribute to diabetes and other illnesses. In her free time, she enjoys sewing, reading, and running.