Jessica Klunder ’23

Class of 2023, Double Major in Biomedical Sciences and Behavioral Neuroscience

Jessica has interned for multiple semesters at the prestigious Icahn School of Medicine in Mount Sinai Hospital.

About

Jessica Klunder ’23 is currently conducting behavioral neuroscience research at Mt Sinai’s Icahn School of Medicine within the Kari Laboratory. The lab is dedicated to understanding the brain-body connection between vagus nerve’s role in modulating metabolic and cardiorespiratory functions in response to traumatic stress. The methods include using animal models (mice) by running SEFL (stress-enhanced behavior learning) trials to expose to stressors, indirect calorimetry, glucose tolerance testing, tissue preservation, immunohistochemistry, and surgical interventions to name a few.

Jessica has earned credit for both semesters of research working at Mount Sinai and an additional semester of research writing an IRB study on genetics, PTSD, major depressive disorder, and novel psychedelic treatments at an innovative medical practice in Lexington, KY. Jessica is in the process of applying to osteopathic medical schools with the intention to earn a medical degree and continue research in the respective field of psychiatry.