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Montana Young

Graduate Student, Hamm Laboratory


I grew up in central Florida and frequently found myself exploring nature and looking for the various reptiles native (and invasive) to the state throughout my childhood. After graduation I moved to Tampa and attended the University of South Florida where I received my B.S. in Biomedical Sciences and my B.A. in History. Afterwards, I conducted research studying the role of antioxidants in UV induced melanoma at Moffitt Cancer Center. I am now pursuing a multi-faceted project in Heidi Hamm’s laboratory focusing on the exocytotic machinery found in neuronal dendrites, specifically within the innervation of adipose tissue. I aspire to contribute to the ever-growing body of research surrounding type II diabetes during my time here at Vanderbilt – and of course enjoy exploring the vast natural preserves of Tennessee.