Rena Li

Hey everyone! My name is Rena, and I’m a sophomore in the College of Arts and Sciences studying biology and/or neuroscience. Research has been a significant part of my Penn experience, helping shape my potential field of study and allowing me to explore brand-new subjects. I hope to share everything I’ve learned with you as well!

One of my main interests is psychiatry, where I’m focusing on mapping new forms of brain stimulation therapy and analyzing behavioral patterns in animal models. As an undergraduate researcher in the Goldberg Neurolab at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, I’m currently working under the mentorship of Dr. Zach Rosenthal to explore the vast parameter space of brain stimulation therapy and analyze the fascinating phenomenon of CSD (cortical spreading depolarization). At Pennsylvania Hospital, I also tag along for clinical trials where patients are monitored during their ECT treatments to detect CSD. Outside the lab, I volunteer as a crisis counselor for those needing a shoulder to lean on during tough days. This helps to connect psychiatry’s deeply interpersonal aspects to my research topics. 

When I’m not chasing down a loose mouse or looking at brains, I’m part of KDSAP (Kidney Disease Screening and Awareness Program) @ Penn, the Asian Pacific American Pre-Medical Student Association, and Penn CSA (Chinese Student Association)! Otherwise, you can always catch me on a random side quest. Mention digital art, video games, movies, pro sports, blind boxes (no Labubus please), or skiing, and I’ll be there. Navigating a new environment can be tough, and as a RPA, I hope I can also help guide you on your research journey. I’m eager to chat about anything on your mind, whether that be drafting your first cold email or searching for a suitable lab. I'd also love to help you with skills such as analyzing literature, writing abstracts and manuscripts, and designing posters. Don’t hesitate to reach out—I’m here for you! 

• Undergraduate Researcher in the Goldberg Lab, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Department of Neurology
• PURM Program
• Presented poster on PSMA in Hepatocellular Carcinoma at the CAP (College of American Pathologists) conference