Brandon Brion

• Home institution: Western Kentucky University

• Year: Rising Senior

• Major(s)/Minor:  Major: Biology, Chinese, and Asian Religion & Culture; Minor: Chemistry (Concentration: Pre-Med) 

• Research Site: University of Louisville

• What will I be researching this summer: I will be in Dr. Hetman's lab at the Kentucky Spinal Cord Injury Research Center. I am researching whether mitochondrial impairment triggers the integrated stress response in oligodendrocytes.

• Future goals: My goal is to attend medical school and become a physician. One day, I hope to give back by serving the community that shaped me into who I am today.

• Outside of the lab/classroom: I hold several leadership and service roles on campus, including President of the Microbiology Club, Vice President of the Asian American Association, and tutor for the university. I’ve also had the honor of serving as an ambassador for both the Biology Department and the Ogden College of Science. When I have time to relax, I enjoy bowling and eating.