Meet Our Team
Aleksandra V. Chudinova, Ph.D.
Ph.D.: University of Montpellier, France
Year started in lab: 2022
Project Title: Deciphering the gene regulatory network of de and regeneration of touch receptor neurons
Expertise: Transgenesis, Behavior analysis, Zebrafish model, C.elegans and Mice electrophysiology
Hello, I am Aleks and I joined the wormsense lab in 2022. I study the conditions that trigger degeneration of touch receptor neurons. In my spare time I like to hike, to cook dishes from around the world.
Alakananda Das, Ph.D.
Ph.D.: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Year started in lab: 2016
Project Title: Role of extracellular matrix proteins in the localization and function of mechanosensory ion channels
Expertise: Making transgenic worms, molecular biology, microscopy, Python
Hi I am Alka, a postdoc in the Goodman lab since 2016. I study how extracellular proteins influence touch sensation by regulating the distribution and function of mechanoelectrical transduction channels. In my free time I like to indulge in arts and crafts and find creative ways to repurpose old items.
Ehsan Rezaei, Ph.D.
Ph.D.: University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Year started in lab: 2017
Project Title: Nanoscale Structure and Mechanics of Skin in a C. elegans Model of Touch Sensation
Expertise: Mechanobilogy, Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM)
I received my PhD in Mechanical Engineering & Applied Mechanics from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. My thesis project focused on the quantification of viscoelastic properties of soft material using contact resonance atomic force microscopy. I joined the Wormsense lab in 2017 to explore the structure and mechanics of C. elegans outer shell and its effects on touch receptor neuron activation. Outside of the lab, I enjoy being outdoors, running, and watching soccer.