Malaz Kreiker

Malaz is an MD-PhD student with an interest in Systems Neuroscience. Originally from Damascus Syria, he completed his undergraduate studies at Drake University. At Drake, he conducted neuroscience research in multiple labs that investigated the effects of early life stress on fear learning and memory in rats. After his undergraduate studies, he joined the National Institute of Mental Health as a postbac research trainee (IRTA). Under the mentorship of Dr. Mario Penzo, Malaz studied neural circuitry that involves the midline thalamus in relation to emotional and defensive behaviors in mice. As an MD-PhD student, Malaz is interested in studying information processing in the brain in relation to emotional states and memory. In his free time, he enjoys music, weight lifting, and spending time with his cat.