Ju Lu

Principal Investigator

Dr. Ju Lu is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at Lehigh University. He uses advanced optical imaging and computational tools to study how the brain reorganizes itself in response to experiences. Currently his research focuses on how chronic stress and aging affect mouse cortical neural circuits. He is also interested in the crosstalk between art and neuroscience. Dr. Lu received Ph.D. in Neurobiology from Harvard University and postdoctoral training at Stanford University; he worked as a research scientist at University of California Santa Cruz before joining the Lehigh faculty in fall 2024.

Solomaya "Sally" Schwab

PhD Student

Jingqi "Kevin" Sun

Predoctoral Research Associate

Yupin Chang

Undergraduate student

As a mechanical engineering major (Class of 2028), I am doing work-study in the Lu lab to help with mouse husbandry. Outside of the lab, I am very involved in the Lehigh dance community, as a member of the belly dance and Helius dance club.

Annibelle Ernst

Undergraduate student

Grace Fitzpatrick

Undergraduate student

Lia Haywood

Undergraduate student

Thomas Kaspereen

Undergraduate student

I am a third-year undergraduate student pursuing a dual degree in neuroscience and philosophy on the pre-med track. I am expecting to graduate in May 2027. I am currently researching the effects of psilocybin on dendritic spines in the amygdala of stressed mice. Research aside, I enjoy finding connections between the arts and the sciences through opportunities such as being a Vanderryn Museum Education Intern at Lehigh University Art Galleries, a TRAC writing fellow, and a member of the NeuroSalon project.

Cayla Newman

Undergraduate student

I am an undergraduate student majoring in behavioral neuroscience and minoring in maternal and child health. I plan to graduate in 2026 Spring. In Dr. Lu's lab I use expansion microscopy to study synaptic plasticity in the mouse cortex. Outside of school and research, I enjoy playing tennis, spending time with friends, and baking!

Erik Peachey

Undergraduate student

Hannah Vogel

Undergraduate student

Oliver Xia

Undergraduate student