The Gestal Lab
The team
These are the amazing people that make magic happens
Nicholas First
PhD Student
I am a PhD student, from Madison, Wisconsin. I earned my bachelor’s degree in Microbiology with a minor in Biochemistry from Mississippi State University. My favorite band is the Beatles and I love hiking and adventures whenever they are afoot.
Katelyn Parrish
PhD student
I am a PhD student in the Gestal lab, and I am interested in bacterial pathogenesis. I earned my Bachelor's degree in biology, with a concentration in microbiology and a minor in chemistry from Southeastern Louisiana University. I was born and raised in Louisiana! I have two cats, a bearded dragon, and I love thrift/antique shopping in my free time!
Gabrielle Miller
SMART Student 2022-2023
I am a senior at Caddo Magnet High School. I wanted to participate in the SMART program because I want to learn more about science and gain knowledge that would be beneficial in my pursuit of a career in forensic science. I enjoy spending time with friends and running my own small business.
Emily Cox
Summer Undergraduate Student 2022
I am Emily Cox, I am pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Biology at Louisiana Tech University. After Graduation I hope to attend LSUHSC in the MD/PhD program. I applied for the Undergraduate Research Fellowship to gain experience in research and to fuel my love for science and learning.
Courtney M. Gregoire
MD student, class 2024
I am a first year medical student from Baton Rouge, Louisiana. I earned bachelor’s degrees in Microbiology and French from Louisiana State University. After graduation, I hope to pursue a career in Infectious Disease. I enjoy cooking and exploring new recipes, as well as spending time outdoors playing beach volleyball.