Guests:
Devaleena S. Pradhan is an Associate Professor of Physiology. She joined the Department of Biological Sciences at Idaho State University in 2018. She received her BS in Animal Biology in 2004 and MSc in Zoology in 2006 from University of British Columbia. In 2014, she earned her PhD in Neurobiology and Behavior from Georgia State University and then pursued her postdoctoral training at University of California, Los Angeles. At ISU, Dr. Pradhan has established a vibrant research program through receiving grants from agencies such as the Murdock Charitable Trust, Idaho EPSCoR, and the prestigious National Science Foundation CAREER program in 2022. Her group is at the forefront of discovery of novel scientific approaches to answer complex questions in reproduction and behavioral performance using an integrative approach that combines information at the molecular level (e.g. genes) to biochemical and whole animal level. She has intersected her research with teaching through establishing a Vertically Integrated Project course. Since the start of her research program at ISU, she has mentored a community of >60 trainees, resulting in >50 student presentations, including 4 best presentation awardees. Her mentees have successfully received their own research funding and internships totaling over $140K through local and state-wide opportunities. With her trainees, she has founded the “Science Experiences for All” (SEA) Program with her trainees, that provides science engagement programs to the community. Click here to learn more about Dr. Pradhan.
Makenzie R. Reed is a 4th year Ph.D. Student in the Department of Biological Sciences at Idaho State University. She received her BS in Biology with a Zoology Emphasis in 2022 from Minnesota State University, Mankato. Makenzie’s research focuses on studying behavior through the lens of biomechanics (study of structure, function, and motion) while integrating concepts of internal and external morphology. During her time at ISU, Makenzie has received several internal funding awards to continue her work. She has presented her work at local and national conferences, including 2 best student presentation awards. Makenzie has been an active member of the Idaho INBRE program, focused on biomedical research excellence. She has mentored several undergraduate and graduate students, including several students completing honors theses. Makenzie is an active participant in the Pradhan Lab’s “Science Experiences for All” (SEA) Program. Outside of the lab, Makenzie has been active in the Biology Department, most recently serving as President of the Biology Graduate Student Association. Click here to learn more about Makenzie Reed.
