Editorial Team

Katelyn Chen - Co-Editor-in-Chief

I am a senior majoring in Spanish and Biology at Pitt. I’m looking forward to my second year leading the PUR and am excited to read all of the incredible student work submitted! My personal research interests are in metabolic disease and immunometabolism. In my free time, I enjoy rock climbing, wheelthrowing, and spending time with my two cats, whom I worship and adore.

Rithika Praturu - Co-Editor-in-Chief

My name is Rithika Praturu, and I’m a neuroscience major at Pitt. I love watching movies, discovering new music, and trying coffee at every local cafe. I’m a big fan of football (soccer) and basketball, specifically Chelsea, Gotham FC, the USWNT, the Celtics, and the NY Liberty. I am also a huge Pitt sports fan. My research interests include TBI and injury recovery as well as sex based differences in various injury recovery. I am incredibly excited to continue working on the PUR board and help expand our journal in many ways. 

Luke McCartney - Associate Editor

I am a junior majoring in Politics & Philosophy and English Writing. My academic interests lie in the humanities and social sciences, but I look forward to reading submissions across all disciplines. Outside of school, I spend most of my time lamenting the struggles of the Pittsburgh Pirates and climbing (plastic) rocks. 

Rachana Senthil - Associate Editor

I am a junior majoring in Neuroscience and minoring in Business. My research interests include neurodegenerative diseases and nerve repair. This is my first year on PUR board, and I am excited to contribute to the team this year! I enjoy exploring cafes with my friends, baking, and painting.

Joleen Wong - Associate Editor

I am a junior majoring in Natural Sciences and minoring in Economics at Pitt. I’m researching working memory in schizophrenia under the Department of Psychiatry while also exploring community engagement in nutrition advocacy and modern media’s portrayal of various medical and public health themes. In my free time, I love exploring new restaurants and cafes with friends, playing board games, and playing the piano. 

Alexis Byrom - Copyeditor

My name is Alexis Byrom, and I’m a senior year nursing student at Pitt. This is my third year on the PUR board as a copyeditor, and I’m so excited to be back! My research interests include patient navigation and patient self-advocacy, particularly in the cancer survivor and transgender populations. Outside of school, I like to read, weave, crochet, and spend time with my two cats. 

Fatima Nadeem - Copyeditor

I am a senior majoring in molecular biology at Pitt and I will be serving my second year on the PUR board this year!. My academic research interests include Matrix and ECM biology as well as CT surgery clinical disease research. Outside of class, I spend my time being involved as a member in Blue and Gold Society. In my free time I enjoy baking. 

Grace Piro - Copyeditor

I am a sophomore majoring in Actuarial Mathematics and Economics. My academic interests are mostly related to financial math and microeconomics, but I also enjoy exploring other social sciences. In my free time, I love playing tennis for Pitt’s club team and exploring new Pittsburgh neighborhoods with friends! 

Oliver Rosen - Copyeditor 

My name is Oliver Rosen! I am a senior from Chicago, IL, and I am a biochemistry and English writing dual major. I am also pursuing German and chemistry minors. When I’m not in the lab, I love to write, read, and try new restaurants! This is my first year being on the PUR board, and I cannot wait to get started!

Lia Cohen - Secretary

I'm a senior majoring in Neuroscience, and this is my second year serving as the PUR Secretary. I'm looking forward to reading this year's submissions and helping the journal grow! My research interests center on the biological mechanisms underlying visual development. In my free time, I enjoy exploring new coffee shops (La Prima is my Pittsburgh favorite!), going to the gym, and spending time outdoors.

Lakshanya Rajaganapathi - Production & Web Editor

My name is Lakshanya Rajaganapathi and I’m a junior majoring in Neuroscience at Pitt! This is my first year on the board and I’m so excited! I am currently conducting research in the vascular medicine department. In my free time I enjoy hanging out with friends, reading and exploring Pittsburgh!

Brandon Nguyen - Graphic Designer

My name is Brandon Nguyen! I am a senior studying architecture at Pitt. I am the graphic designer and this would be my first year working for the board and I’m so excited for all the opportunities to come. I am very interested in design in all aspects and I have a strong passion for sustainability. I am very interested in music, food, art, and gaming.