Marwa Osman (G4, Kris Sarosiek/Marc Weisskopf Labs)

Where are you from and what do you enjoy most about your hometown?

I am originally from Denver, Colorado, and spent most of my life there before moving to the East Coast. What I miss most is the easy access to hiking and being so close to the Rockies. That said, the trees in Massachusetts are pretty nice too!

What is your research focused on?

My research centers on the neurotoxic effects of heavy metal exposure on neurodevelopment. I’m particularly interested in how environmental toxicants disrupt key mechanisms like apoptosis during neuronal development, as well as the downstream consequences of early-life exposure (e.g. later-life cognition).

What is your favorite part of your research?

My favorite part of my research is that it allows me to combine my passion for environmental justice with my scientific interest in neuroscience and cell biology. I love that my dissertation bridges these two areas, as I work on both environmental epidemiology and bench research with my two PIs. My long-term career goal is to contribute to a better understanding of how environmental health disparities arise from environmental justice challenges.

How do you relax when you’re not working?

I love music, especially live music! When I’m not working, I enjoy going to local concerts in Boston or visiting NYC (my sister lives there) to check out all the jazz clubs (I have a list btw!). My current favorite spot is Mezzrow. I also enjoy making my own mixes with my amateur DJ set! Additionally, I’m into martial arts, like boxing, and recently got into running!