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Meet the Schmidt lab

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Honorary lab member

Frankie

Frankie loves catching a tennis ball, eating treats and cuddling with her family.

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Research Specialist

Staff Scientist

Julia Sciandra
Kamala Sundararaj

Julia is a recent graduate of Coastal Carolina University. She earned her bachelor's degree in Psychology with a concentration in Behavioral Neuroscience and a minor in Biology. During her undergrad, she studied altered gene expression and models of neurodegenerative diseases while incorporating rescue treatments. Outside of the lab, Julia loves to catch a concert, explore Charleston, and read a good book. 

Kamala obtained her PhD in Biochemistry, and she has engaged in scientific investigations for several years at MUSC. Her expertise in scientific research, specifically in the field of signal transduction and oncology, will greatly enhance value to the studies proposed for how pediatric tumor occurs during the development of the brain. Apart from science, Kamala loves to cook and spend time with her family and friends.

Graduate Student

Jesslyn James

Jesslyn is a recent graduate of Xavier University of Louisiana, where she earned her degree in Medical Laboratory Science with a minor in biology. She is a grad student in MUSC's MCBP grad program and joined the Schmidt lab in June 2026 to pursue a PhD in Cancer Biology. In her free time, Jesslyn enjoys crocheting, pottery, and spending time with friends.

Alumni

Shivani Balasubramaniam - Volunteer (May-June 2026)

Meagan Marks - Rotation student (Spring 2026)

Apply Today

We are looking for talented postdocs, if you are interested send your resume to schmichr@musc.edu.

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