Corinne Gallagher

PhD in Neuroscience, 2026

2026 Outstanding Academic Achievement in PhD in Neuroscience

I first found the Neuroscience PhD program at Rowan through my acceptance to the Summer Undergraduate Research Experience (SURE). Completing my graduate studies at TBES has ensured that I am equipped with the skills necessary to succeed in my career. The Neuroscience PhD program is staffed with caring and knowledgeable faculty and provides abundant opportunities to develop not only technically, but also as an effective communicator of scientific research. Through my time in this program, I’ve had the privilege to present my research at university-wide and national conferences, compose grant proposals, attend cutting-edge research seminars, and develop professional connections to the next generation of neuroscience researchers.

Quy Nguyen

PhD in Neuroscience, 2026

My PhD journey has been both challenging and rewarding, with moments that tested my perseverance. What made it truly meaningful was the supportive environment of the Neuroscience PhD program at Rowan-Virtua School of Translational Biomedical Engineering and Sciences (TBES). From the beginning, I was surrounded by a community that is not only academically rigorous but also genuinely supportive, making it clear that I was never navigating this path alone. The faculty not only provides strong scientific mentorship but also actively supports students in shaping their career paths.

Over more than five years, TBES became a second home where I developed the skills to design and conduct impactful research while building lasting professional relationships and friendships. As I approached my dissertation defense, faculty members remained deeply engaged, offering guidance on my next steps. With their encouragement, I chose to continue my training as a postdoctoral fellow at Rowan-Virtua TBES. I am confident that the program’s mentorship and opportunities will help me grow into an independent scientist and achieve my long-term career goals.

Nicole Hinds

PhD in Molecular Cell Biology and Neuroscience, 2025
Postdoctoral Fellow at Rowan-Virtua SOM, Neuroscience Department

2025 Outstanding Achievement in Doctoral Research

My experience in the TBES PhD program has been nothing short of transformative. Faculty and students alike are deeply invested in each other’s success, creating a culture where growth, curiosity, and resilience are constantly encouraged. A major part of that experience was the mentorship I received, particularly from Dr. Daniel Manvich. He consistently made time to discuss ideas, troubleshoot challenges, and provide thoughtful, constructive feedback. More importantly, he fostered independence while still being an unwavering source of support. His mentorship helped shape not only my research skills, but also my confidence as a scientist.

Equally impactful was the collaborative spirit among fellow students. TBES cultivates community rather than competition, something that is rare and incredibly valuable in graduate education. My peers played an essential role in making this journey both productive and enjoyable. The combination of dedicated mentors, a collaborative student body, and a shared passion for discovery made my PhD experience overwhelmingly positive and one in which I could truly thrive.

Olga Borodovitsyna

PhD in Cell and Molecular Biology, 2021
Clinical Trials Project Manager, Myrtelle, LLC

2021 Outstanding Achievement in Doctoral Research

Graduate school taught me how to conduct and critically evaluate science, develop both technical and transferable skills, and build the confidence to take a project from concept to completion. These skills have been essential throughout my career in biotech, where resilience, critical thinking, the ability to construct strong scientific arguments, and clear communication of data are essential to my daily work.