Romy Maxine Aiken

EDUCATION

College / University

Florida State University

Highest Degree

Bachelor of Science

Major Subjects

Cell and Molecular Neuroscience

Country

USA

Lab Experience

Genotyping, ImageJ quantification of autoradiographs, histology (IHC, nissl, bodipy), epifluorescence imaging, cryosectioning, perfusions, electrophysiology, stereotaxic rodent surgery, two-photon imaging, and circuit mapping.

Projects / Research

2020 – 2021: Altered amygdala inhibitory circuits in neuroligin3-R451C mutant mouse model of autism, supervisor: Dr. McLean Bolton, Max Planck FL Institute for Neuroscience
2019 – 2020: Oxytocin receptor binding in the periphery of Magel2 knock-out mice, supervisor: Dr. Elizabeth Hammock, Florida State University
2017 – 2019: Oxytocin and metabolic tissue: analysis of skeletal muscle and adipose tissue differences in neonatal oxytocin receptor knock-out mice

Scholarships / Awards

2021 – 2022:	Stipend by the International Max Planck Research School
2020 – 2021:	Max Planck FL Institute Post-baccalaureate Research Fellowship
2020:	Clara Kibler Davis Women in Neuroscience Scholarship
2016 – 2020:	Florida Bright Futures Scholarship

SCIENTIFIC INTERESTS AND GOALS

I’m interested in the molecular basis of anxiety disorders such as bipolar disorder, autism, obsessive compulsive disorder, and schizophrenia. I’m particularly interested in how these disorders emerge from dysfunction at the synapse. My goal is to work in translational neuroscience research to support the development of effective therapies and treatments for these anxiety disorders.