The Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Neuroscience congratulates PhD candidate Katie (Katelin) Scott on receiving a University of Iowa Graduate College Summer Fellowship, a competitive award that provides advanced doctoral students with dedicated time to focus on dissertation research and writing. The fellowship recognizes promising scholars whose work is advancing knowledge across a wide range of disciplines while supporting timely progress toward degree completion.

Working in the laboratory of Dr. Aislinn Williams in the Department of Psychiatry, Scott's research investigates SCN2A-related neurodevelopmental disorders, a group of rare genetic conditions that can cause severe developmental disabilities and, in some cases, shortened life expectancy.

Her dissertation examines how specific mutations in the SCN2A gene disrupt production of a protein that is critical for normal brain development and function. Using cell culture systems and laboratory models, Scott studies how these genetic changes affect the cerebellum, a region of the brain involved in movement, cognition, emotional regulation, and social behavior. By uncovering how these mutations alter brain development, her research aims to provide a stronger foundation for future therapeutic approaches.

"The fellowship allows me to have protected time to make more progress on my dissertation writing," Scott said. "Receiving the Summer Research Fellowship means that I am able to more closely focus on my active research and worry less about funding for a few months."

Scott chose the University of Iowa's Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Neuroscience because of its longstanding excellence in neurodevelopmental neuroscience research. She expects to complete her PhD in December 2026.

Congratulations to Katie on this well-deserved recognition. We are proud to celebrate her accomplishments and look forward to seeing the continued impact of her research on our understanding of neurodevelopmental disorders and the future of precision medicine.