Rutuja completed her B.S. and M.S. in Biotechnology at the University of Pune, India. There, her work focused on applications of microbes as fertilizers and indicators of waste water, as well as the use of anti-microbial conducting polymers in sterile clothes and paints in hospitals. She developed her interest in Neuroscience after completing two projects focused on bioinformatic approaches for identifying biomarkers in neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders.

Rutuja aims to further investigate the molecular and cellular basis of these disorders in her Ph.D. journey with the Tuscher Lab.

Apart from her love of science, Rutuja enjoys being in nature, trying different cuisines, listening to music, dance, arts & crafts and fun activities!

Tyler received his Mechanical Engineering degree and MBA from UW-Milwaukee. His professional focus revolves around eco-efficiency and product innovation in the field of water purification. Tyler is a Co-founder at sum. Hydration and a Contract Design Engineer.

In the Tuscher lab, Tyler assists in the validation of new equipment and protocols, creates and maintains lab organization systems, designs and 3D prints items for the lab, and helps with the many tasks involved in setting up a new research lab.

Tyler is an adventure seeker who loves the great outdoors, traveling, scuba diving, fishing or walleye, and working on cars.

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