Research Interests: Neural Injury, Neurogenesis, Neurodegeneration
Rotations: Dr. Katherine Conant; Dr. Rebekah Evans; Dr. William Rebeck
Prior Education: BS in Kinesiology & Health Sciences, The College of William & Mary; MS in Integrative Neuroscience, Georgetown University
Gemma graduated from The College of William & Mary with a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology & Health Sciences. During her undergraduate career, she participated in research with Professor Robert Kohl to further understand motor learning, and the utilization of neural programs in movement.
Following her undergraduate studies, she worked in a clinical setting as a neuropsychometrist for patient populations with diverse cognitive concerns. In this role, Gemma also administered the Washington Commanders’ return-to-play concussion protocol. More recently, Gemma graduated from the Master of Science of Integrative Neuroscience at Georgetown University as a member of the Burns Lab investigating the relationship between APOE genotype and the outcomes of traumatic brain injury in aged mice.
Following graduation, Gemma continued working in the Burns Lab exploring the potential for transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) in supporting neurogenesis and cellular proliferation following traumatic brain injury.
Gemma joined the IPN during the summer of 2026. Outside of the lab, Gemma is an avid baseball fan and enjoys spending time with her dogs, horses, and family.