Matt went to the University of Virginia and earned a B.A. in Cognitive Science, erstwhile working as a research assistant examining how aging impacts broad spectrum cognitive function. In the Lukens lab, Matt investigated the role of inflammatory signaling pathways and gut microbiota-immune system interactions in the pathogenesis and progression of Rett syndrome. When not pipetting stuff in the lab, Matt enjoys playing banjo/mandolin/ukulele/guitar, balling on the courts at the gym, and collecting Goodwill sweaters. Matt received a Gillings Merit Award to pursue a Master’s degree in Public Health & Nutrition at the UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health.