Ellie Wojcikowski

OUR Ambassador
Major: Neuroscience
Mentor: Amanda McCleery, Krystal Parker
Biography
I am a part of two research labs at Iowa. In the Mechanisms of Adult and Youth Psychopathology Lab (MAYPL), run by Dr. McCleery, we use a multimethod approach to identify and understand predictors of schizophrenia-spectrum conditions. Here, I research heart rate variability and EEG data. (https://mccleery.lab.uiowa.edu/) In Parker lab, run by Dr. Parker, we research the cerebellar contribution to cognitive processes. Here, I code mouse grooming patterns and analyze human eye-blink reaction times as a neurobehavioral evaluation for neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative conditions (e.g. schizophrenia, autism, ADHD). (https://parker.lab.uiowa.edu/)
 
Before coming to the University of Iowa I had no idea what being a part of research looked like. I was lucky enough to connect with OUR about my interests and get involved my very first semester! Now, I could not feel more grateful to be a part of supportive, hard-working, and innovative labs dedicated to uncovering the mechanisms of severe mental illness.
Outside of class, you can find me making posters for Iowa’s Neuroscience Club, volunteering at the Iowa Farm Sanctuary, and admiring the Old Capitol building. If you have any questions or just want to say hello, don’t hesitate to reach out!