EBRL Welcomes Two New Lab Members!

Presley Smith || Research Assistant || Presley earned a B.S. in Biological Science with a concentration in Microbiology and a secondary major in Psychology from the University of Tennessee. Before joining EBRL, she worked as a Family Support Specialist, providing evidence-based home visiting services to new mothers and families. Her work focused on early childhood development, parent-child connection, and the factors that shape cognitive and emotional growth. This increased Presley’s interest in neuroscience, genetics, and the biological foundations of behavior. Outside of work, she enjoys teaching group fitness, discovering new music, and spending time with friends and family. || Contact: presley.smith@vanderbilt.edu

Robin Friesz B.A., D.C. || Research Assistant || Robin received her B.A. at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and a Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Palmer College Iowa. After a short time in practice, she moved into the neuromedical device industry, developing training programs, marketing communications, and patient education resources for a variety of neuroscience businesses. Her favorite hobby is children’s storytelling. She recently relocated to Nashville and plans to consume as much music and coffee as possible! || Contact: robin.friesz@vanderbilt.edu