Underwood Lab

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Erica Underwood, PhD – Assistant Professor

Education & Training
BS Biology, University of Mississippi – University, MS (2010)
MS Applied Cognition and Neuroscience, The University of Texas at Dallas – Dallas, TX (2012)
PhD Neuroscience, The University of Texas at Dallas – Dallas, TX (2016)
Postdoc Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine – Houston, TX (2017)
Postdoc Neurobiology and Anatomy, The University of Texas Health Science Center – Houston, TX (2020)

Areas of Interest 
Research interests: mitochondrial energetics and metabolic dysfunction in the context of brain injury and neurodegeneration

Research 
I have a passion for pushing the boundaries of established research protocols and developing novel techniques for mitochondrial profiling. In 2020 I published a method of high throughput assessment of mitochondrial function using intact brain tissue and have since consulted with laboratories across the country and internationally on its implementation. My primary role in the BRAINS Group is to ensure successful mitochondrial/metabolic phenotyping in any/all ongoing projects. Additionally, I’ve been a member of the Gross Anatomy teaching faculty at McGovern Medical School for the past 4 years.

Hobbies & Interests 
If I’m not in the lab there’s a good chance that I’m in the gym – I compete in bikini class bodybuilding competitions and have three 1st place finishes. I love my backyard chickens but my gardening skills remain a work in progress.

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