Brady received her PhD at the University of Alabama at Birmingham working on pneumococcal capsular diversity and its effects on pneumococcal evasion of innate and vaccine-induced immunity. She performed her post-doctoral training at the University of Colorado-Anschutz studying group B streptococcal factors that facilitate colonization of pregnant people, transmission to the neonate, and penetration of the blood-brain barrier during neonatal meningitis. Brady joins UVA in Fall 2024 where she will conduct a research program centered on the molecular mechanisms underlying the type VII secretion system in GBS and the impact of secreted bacterial effectors on host barriers, the microbiota and mucosal immune responses during GBS colonization and systemic infection.

Caitlin grew up in Accra, Ghana, and earned her PhD in Microbiology from the University of Maine, where she worked in the Neely lab studying the influence of prophages on Group B Streptococcus. She joined the Spencer lab in the fall of 2024 to explore type VII secretion systems and their role in interbacterial competition.

Abby graduated in 2024 from the University of Mary Washington with her BS and BA in Biomedical Sciences and Anthropology. During undergrad, she conducted an independent research project on Triple Negative Breast Cancer focusing on cell culture techniques where she determined methionine restriction sensitizes cells to Cisplatin chemotherapy and increases proliferation inhibition. She is excited to now work with the Spencer Lab as a Lab Specialist as she works on applications to grad school. Abby plans to pursue a doctorate in the biomedical field and looks forward to working with UVA and Dr Spencer in preparation.

Glenda was born and raised in southern Brazil, where her love for animals and nature inspired her to pursue a career in biology. She earned her master’s degree in pathophysiology and her PhD in microbiology at the University of Rio de Janeiro and the University of Colorado. During her doctoral studies, she had the opportunity to work with Dr. Brady Spencer for the first time, marking the beginning of her research on Group B Streptococcus (GBS). Glenda continues to study GBS at Spencer’s Lab, focusing on understanding the molecular mechanisms that contribute to its pathogenesis. A true Sagittarius, she embraces her adventurous spirit by exploring new places, enjoying outdoor activities, and never missing the chance to savor a good cup of coffee.

Chloe is an undergraduate student at the University of Virginia studying Biology. She is a student on the pre-med track and is deeply interested in immunology. She is very excited to gain knowledge, experiences and skills under the Spencer Laboratory, and further apply them to her future studies.

Will is a pre-medical student at the University of Virginia majoring in Cognitive Science with a concentration in Psychology. With a strong foundation in behavioral neuroscience and clinical experience across various healthcare settings, Will is deeply committed to pursuing a career in anesthesiology. His passion for pain management stems from firsthand experiences shadowing physicians and witnessing the transformative relief anesthesia can bring to patients in distress. Through research, teaching assistantships, and community service, Will blends scientific curiosity with compassionate care, aiming to advance patient-centered solutions in pain medicine.

Leen is an undergraduate student at the University of Virginia majoring in Biology on the pre-medical track. She has a strong interest in immunology, virology, and women’s health, particularly in how biological research can inform and improve healthcare outcomes for underserved communities. Passionate about advocating for equitable access to healthcare, Leen hopes to combine clinical practice with research to advance women’s health on a broader scale. She looks forward to contributing to the Spencer Lab’s mission while expanding her knowledge in reproductive and immune health. As an aspiring physician, Leen is committed to delivering high-quality, compassionate care to all patients.

Britt is an undergraduate student at the University of Virginia majoring in Neuroscience and pursuing a pre-medical track. She has a strong interest in the intersection between brain function and human development. She is excited for the opportunity to learn from the Spencer lab’s ongoing work and contribute in any way she can. Britt looks forward to applying these experiences to both her future clinical training and academic growth.