The Department of Neurobiology is welcoming five new doctoral students this fall. Drawn by Duke’s collaborative culture, strong mentorship, and wide range of research opportunities, the students arrive from institutions across the country with interests spanning neuroscience, psychology, molecular biology, and data science.
Shelly Chen earned a bachelor's degree in molecular and cell biology from the University of California, Berkeley. Chen said she was drawn to Duke by the breadth of research opportunities, from molecular and circuit neuroscience to computational approaches and disease-focused studies. What stood out most, however, was the supportive culture within the Neurobiology graduate program. “As a first-year student, I already feel welcomed and well-guided. I am very excited to start my journey here with scientific curiosities and readiness to make friends!” she said. Outside the lab, Chen enjoys painting, traveling, and spending time with her pet parrot, Coocoo.
Darrien Coates attended Mount St. Mary's University, earning a bachelor's degree in neuroscience with minors in biology and psychology. “Durham has become home for me. There is a bit of everything no matter your interests or background, and that is immensely valuable,” he said. Coates chose Duke Neurobiology not only for the breadth of research and wealth of knowledge, but also for the emphasis on mentorship and support he experienced throughout the recruitment process. “Then there was the neurobiology community, an ever-growing and progressing collective that I knew would both challenge and support me through every aspect of my training experience,” he said. Outside of science, he enjoys going to the gym, running, beach volleyball, music, and spending time with friends and family.
Madelyn Peck earned a bachelor's degree in neurobiology from the University of California San Diego. Peck chose Duke for its strong curriculum and the wide range of research opportunities spanning basic, systems, and translational neuroscience. She was particularly attracted to the program’s broad scientific training and exposure to diverse research approaches. Outside of science, Peck enjoys yoga, volleyball, and crocheting.
Steven Pilato holds a bachelor's degree in psychology from Stetson University, an M.S. in behavioral neuroscience from Binghamton University, and an M.S. in data science from Seton Hall University. He chose Duke because of the nurturing and collaborative environment, particularly within the Department of Neurobiology. “Faculty always have their doors open for students and are passionate about mentorship,” he said.
Bomin Seo earned a bachelor's degree in neuroscience from Johns Hopkins University. “I love that Duke’s Ph.D. program in Neurobiology places a strong emphasis on statistical and data analysis coursework, an area for growth that I identified during my undergraduate research experience,” she said. Seo was also attracted to the program’s built-in teaching assistant opportunities and the chance to strengthen her skills as a mentor and science communicator. A self-described “severe homebody,” she enjoys cooking, creative projects such as decorating her home, and exploring new cafes and restaurants. “I’m also a big, big Ghibli fan!” she added.