Elizabeth Waters, Lab Manager, Ph. D. Candidate

Elizabeth Waters received her bachelor’s degrees in chemistry and forensic science from Syracuse University. She joined the Easley lab in 2021 but has been a laboratory technician at UGA since 2017. Her research focuses on using non-human primate pluripotent stem cells to explore potential treatments for male-factor infertility. This project investigates whether functional haploid spermatids can be derived in vitro from pluripotent stem cells to offer patient-specific solutions. She is also working toward her Ph.D. in Neuroscience. Outside the lab, Beth enjoys going to the gym and spending time with her friends and her dog, Sadie.

Ian Bachli, Ph. D. Student

Ian received his B.S. in Biology from the University of Toledo and is a sixth-year Ph.D. student in Environmental Health Science at the University of Georgia. His research background includes working with Drosophila Melanogaster to discover novel proteins involved in centrosome formation and its role in Male Fertility under the guidance of Dr. Tomer Avidor-Reiss. His current research involves investigating the epigenetic effects of opioids on spermatogenesis and male infertility. Ian enjoys the great outdoors during his free time, whether it be backpacking, fishing, camping, or wrangling snakes for local Athens area residents.

Kylie Tager, Ph. D. Candidate

Kylie is a fourth-year Ph.D. student in Toxicology at the University of Georgia College of Public Health. She received her B.S. in Biology from the University of South Carolina-Aiken. Her research background includes using RNA interference to target individual HIV-1 proteins under the guidance of Dr. William H. Jackson. Kylie’s current project examines the effects of tobacco smoke exposure on spermatogenesis, sperm epigenetics, and offspring outcomes. In her free time, Kylie enjoys outdoor activities, baking, and photography.

Arina Chernikova, Ph. D. Student

Arina received her Bachelor’s in Biochemistry with Honors from Lomonosov Moscow State University and has just begun her scientific path as a graduate student here at the University of Georgia. She is passionate about science in general, but takes exceptional interest in epigenetics and cell biology. There has been a lot of cultural exchange for Arina lately, so outside the lab she really enjoys her friends showing her around and sharing American/Indian/Iranian/any-other traditions. She cooks borscht and takes them to the ballet in return! 

Austin Hammond, Master’s Student

Austin is a first-year Master’s of Public Health student with a concentration in Environmental Health Science. He received his B.S. in Biology from the University of Georgia. His current research project focuses on comparing the epigenome of those exposed to nicotine, opioids, cannabis, and alcohol to identify epigenetic hotspots. In his free time, Austin enjoys crafting and DIY projects.

Keertana Konduru

Keertana is a fourth-year undergraduate student majoring in Environmental Health Science and double-minoring in Fashion Merchandising and Biology. In the future, she plans on going to medical school and hopes to work in fetal surgery or fertility medicine. At UGA, she is involved with Indian Cultural Exchange, Rouge Magazine, Environmental Health Club, and SGA’s Professional Clothing Closet. She volunteers at UCBC and Piedmont Athens Regional and works at an orthopedic clinic. In her free time, Keertana enjoys doing puzzles, cooking, and spending time with her friends and family.

Emily McDonald

Emily is a fourth-year undergraduate student majoring in Environmental Health Science with a minor in Genetics. After graduating, she plans on pursuing a career in genetic counseling. She is a member of the Environmental Health Science Club, as well as UGA Cancer Support Community. She also volunteers at TerraBella Epps Bridge, a local retirement community. In her free time, she enjoys reading, running, and spending time with friends. 

Tiffany Tran

Tiffany is a fourth-year undergraduate double majoring in Biomedical Physiology and Biology with a minor in Spanish. She hopes to attend medical school after graduation and is interested in joining the pediatric field. At UGA, Tiffany is involved with the Student Alumni Council, Miracle, and other volunteer work. During her free time, she enjoys spending time with her friends and reading, and is always looking to learn something new!

Nathaniel Yeboah

Nathaniel is a fourth-year undergraduate student majoring in Environmental Health Science with a minor in biology. After graduating he plans to go to graduate school for dentistry. At UGA Nathaniel is involved with Camp Kesem, NMDP, and the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. In his free time, he enjoys to swim, watch tv, and play the ukelele.

Matan Gal

Matan is a second-year undergraduate student majoring in Biomedical Physiology on the Pre-Med track. He is a board member of UGAHillel and In Student Government. This summer he Volunteered as a first-responder with Magen David Adom in Israel. In his free time, Matan likes to be with friends, go to concerts, and hike.

Abbie Bearden

Abbie is a fourth year undergraduate majoring in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. After graduation she plans to attend medical school and become a neurologist. She is a member of UGA Miracle and also volunteers at Mercy Health Center, a medical and dental clinic for the underserved population of Athens. In her free time, Abbie enjoys spending time with her friends, traveling, and cooking. 

Alexia Pear

Alexia is a fourth-year undergraduate majoring in biological sciences. After graduation, she plans on attending grad school to become a physical therapist. She is on leadership for UGA miracle and a member of Dream on 3. Alexia also volunteers at Esp, a program for people with special needs. In her free time she likes to work out, read, and play sports.

Gavin Woodman

Gavin is a fourth-year undergraduate majoring in Biomedical Physiology and Biology, with a minor in Applied Biotechnology. After graduating, he plans on attending Medical School. Gavin has worked as a medical assistant for two summers and has served on two medical internships in Panama and the Dominican Republic. He has volunteered at Piedmont and St. Mary’s Hospital, and held executive positions in UGA Miracle, Wishmakers, and Doctors Without Borders. In his free time he enjoys working out, watching sports, and hanging out with friends.

Alyse Steves, Ph.D., 2018