Independent Research Direction: The Neuro-Vascular Interface in Metabolic Disease 

"As an independent investigator, my lab will investigate how peripheral metabolic conditions—specifically Type 2 Diabetes—disrupt blood-brain barrier (BBB) morphology and structural integrity across the lifespan. By translating my expertise in developmental neuroscience, surgeries, and live in vivo miniscope imaging to neurovascular models, our goal is to identify early BBB biomarkers that predict cognitive decline from childhood through pathological aging. This distinct research program bridges peripheral vascular health with central cognitive function, opening novel avenues for therapeutic intervention."