Our Team

Katherine Hernandez

B.A., Biology- University of North Texas,

Graduate student in the Pharmacology and Neuroscience Program

During my undergraduate years, I worked as a pharmacy technician and an undergraduate research assistant. While completing my bachelor's, I realized that I wanted a career in science and chose to pursue a doctoral degree. This led me to my current role as a graduate student working in Dr. Sterling Ortega's lab here at HSC. In the lab, I'm currently working with a murine stroke model called middle cerebral artery occlusion. Using this model, I will look at the therapeutic effects of PNU120596 from a neuroimmunology standpoint. My interests outside the lab include hiking, hanging out with friends, and spending time with my family.

Nathan Jones

B.A., Psychology & Spanish - Texas Christian University

 Graduate student in the Pharmacology & Neuroscience Program

I worked as a research assistant throughout my undergraduate career. My main project centered around cannabidiol (CBD) and its potential uses to treat anxiety using a rat model. This project showed me how much I enjoyed research, pushing me to pursue a Ph.D. Currently, I am working with the EAE model of Multiple Sclerosis, looking at both the neuroprotective and therapeutic capabilities of CD8 T-Cells. I will also be working on a project focusing on pediatric traumatic brain (pTBI) and looking at the effects of adaptive immune activation on brain repair. Aside from school, I enjoy cooking, watching movies, and going to the zoo with my wife. 

Safia Sharif

B.S. Biomedical Science - Texas A & M

Osteopathic Medical Student - Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine

My name is Safia Sharif and I am from Arlington, Texas. I attended Texas A&M University for my undergraduate degree. My favorite thing to do in my pastime is bake pastries; one of my favorite things to make are chocolate chip cookies! I also enjoy watching romantic comedies, trying new food spots, and spending time with loved ones..