Memory is an active process that allows for the recall of previous experiences, shaping how we interpret the present moment and plan future behavior. My research seeks to understand the mechanisms and function of how memories organize and reorganize in the brain across time. To achieve this, I use a combination of techniques from molecular, systems, and behavioral neuroscience within a rodent model system and classical fear memory paradigms.
Mentor: Laura DeNardo, Ph.D.
My name is Ricky Savjani, a resident physician in the Department of Radiation Oncology at UCLA. My research interests lie in leveraging population inferences to understand the underpinnings of human cognition and to better guide oncological care for cancer patients. This also includes functional sparing and optimal delivery of radiation to the brain to minimize toxicity and cognitive impairments. I am interested in functional and structural neuroimaging using MRI to tackle these challenges. Additionally, I am interested in AI, brain brachytherapy, and functional radiosurgery. I am thrilled to be able to participate in the UCLA TNT program to turn ideas into technologies to optimize individual patient care.
Mentor: Daniel Low, Ph.D.
My research goal is to establish novel neuro-rehabilitation devices and therapies that are affordable and accessible by any patient. To achieve that goal, I am interested in the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying the therapeutic effect of neuromodulations in patients with spinal cord injury. To be more specific, I am utilizing a comprehensive set of biological (opto-/ chemogenetics, electrophysiology and single nucleus RNA sequencing), engineering (signal processing and electrode fabrication), and computational (machine learning) tools to investigate the short-term and long-term changes of spinal circuit induced by the electrical epidural stimulation.
Mentor: Daniel Lu, M.D., Ph.D
My research combines animal models with electrophysiology and chemogenetics to investigate the neural signatures of Parkinson’s disease and Levodopa-induced dyskinesia. Specifically, I am interested in identifying causal patterns of electrical activity in the frontocoritcal regions that are associated with the cognitive impairments of Parkinson’s disease, with the ultimate goal of using these neural signatures as novel therapeutic targets.
Mentor: Alicia Izquierdo, Ph.D.
