Deandra Smith

About Deandra Smith

As a neuroscience undergraduate at the Georgia Institute of Technology, I am deeply passionate about understanding the brain, especially how it changes in the face of neurodegenerative diseases. My long-term goal is to pursue a Ph.D. in neuropharmaceuticals to help bridge the gap between molecular neuroscience and targeted therapeutic interventions. I currently investigate how dopamine supports memory formation in the hippocampus and how its loss may contribute to the cognitive symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. Using a lesion-based mouse model, I selectively ablate dopamine inputs to the hippocampus and assess resulting changes in neural circuitry and behavior through a virtual reality reversal learning task in which reward locations shift to measure memory updating and suppression. I analyze behavioral data in MATLAB to computationally quantify memory performance and generate figures representing lesion extent and behavioral outcomes. In parallel, I perform immunohistochemistry to stain and image brain tissue, quantify dopamine depletion in the hippocampus and upstream input regions, and correlate lesion extent with behavioral performance. In addition, I contribute to interdisciplinary research in computational neuroengineering and psychological science, applying data-driven approaches to better quantify psychiatric disorders and human development. Together, these experiences have strengthened my interest in leveraging innovative technologies to advance mental health care and improve quality of life.Beyond research, I am committed to service and advocacy. I prepare meals for individuals facing food insecurity, advocate for Black women’s health equity, and support fellow students as a learning assistant through the academic support department. I believe in the power of science to heal and in the importance of community, equity, and education in driving meaningful and lasting change.

Experience

1. Ambassador

   Georgia Tech College Of Sciences

   Oct 2025 — Present · Atlanta, GA, US

   As a College of Sciences Ambassador, I serve as a direct point of connection for prospective students who are seeking personalized insight into academic programs, campus life, and the Georgia Tech experience. I represent the College of Sciences at recruitment events, alumni engagement activities, and career education programs, helping future Yellow Jackets make informed decisions by sharing my own experiences and perspectives.

Education

• Georgia Institute of Technology

  Neuroscience , Neurobiology and Neurosciences

  2024 — 2028