Biography
Christine is an MD-PhD student originally from Okeechobee, Florida. She graduated from the University of Florida (UF) with a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Microbiology and Cell Science. At UF, she conducted research in the laboratories of Dr. Tony Romeo, where she investigated bacterial regulatory networks involved in the production of neurotransmitters and their potential role in the gut-brain axis, and Dr. Erika Moore, studying how innate immune signaling drives microvasculature complications in a 3D model of systemic lupus erythematosus. During her B.S., Christine interned in the Gabriel Victora Lab at Rockefeller University through the Tri-Institutional Gateways to the Laboratory Program, studying the cellular interactions that drive affinity maturation. After college, she spent two years in the laboratory of Dr. Moriya Tsuji at Columbia University, using CD1 transgenic models to identify novel mechanisms by which lipid-antigen presentation influences vaccine-induced T-cell immunity against malaria. She later joined the laboratory of Dr. Rumela Chakrabarti at the University of Miami, where she used single-cell genomic approaches to identify emerging therapeutic targets and cellular programs in treatment-resistant, obesity-associated breast cancer.
Outside of the classroom, Christine enjoys a wide range of dance styles, sewing, exploring new restaurants, finding creative outlets through whatever hobby has recently caught her attention, and spending time at home with her cat, Mocha.
Areas of Interest
- Christine is broadly interested in cellular and molecular immunology, particularly how T cells interact with other cell populations to shape protective and pathological responses in human disease.
- She hopes to explore several clinical specialties, but is especially interested in infectious diseases and medical oncology.
Education
- B.S. 2023, University of Florida, Microbiology and Cell Science