Current Lab Members
Amber Ng - Research Science Associate II
Amber has a keen interest in understanding how environmental and molecular factors influence retinal development and degeneration. Her current work focuses on evaluating the therapeutic potential of compounds like Shikonin and optimizing subretinal injection techniques to enhance targeted AAV delivery in mouse models. She integrates histological imaging, analysis, and protocol development to investigate mechanisms that affect degeneration and support photoreceptor survival. Outside the lab, Amber enjoys crafting, hiking, and exploring local coffee shops.
Addison Kanke - Doctoral Student
Addison is a Neuroscience PhD student interested in understanding how excessive blue light exposure from modern technology impacts biological processes and behavior. Her current research explores the role and development of photoreceptors and intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs) in visual processing and investigates how their response to blue light can contribute to the development of addictive behaviors. Outside of lab, Addison is passionate about engaging with the STEM community by serving as Chair of Community Outreach for the non-profit organization STEMSTART Enrichment Inc., and by sharing her journey as a scientist on social media to help foster fun, inclusive, and relatable spaces for science. | @itsaddisonella
Victoria Lemus - Doctoral Student
Victoria is a PhD student in the Developmental and Regenerative Biology program, where she explores the relationship between epigenetics and photoreceptor function. Her interests include how histone modifications shape gene expression and chromatin architecture in the context of photoreceptor health and degeneration. Currently, her research is focused on understanding how metabolic flux in rod photoreceptors influences specific histone modifications and gene regulation during aging. Additional research includes studying the role of blue light on retinal degeneration. Outside the lab, Victoria enjoys staying active, shopping, and spending quality time with friends.
Oscar Olbera - Master's Student
Oscar is currently pursuing a master's degree in applied mathematics, with plans to continue into a PhD in mathematics. His academic interests center on mathematical biology and biological modeling, where he aims to use mathematical tools to explore biological phenomenon. In his free time he enjoys hiking, fishing, and playing guitar.
Dan Contreras - Undergraduate Student
Dan is currently a sophomore biochemistry student. His research interests include how DNA modifications can influence gene expression, especially within the context of photoreceptor cells and retinal degeneration. In the lab, he shadows various members to learn different lab techniques. In his free time, Dan enjoys crocheting and shopping. After graduating, he plans on pursuing medical school.
Jorge Garcia - Undergraduate Student
Jorge is an undergraduate student majoring in Neuroscience with a concentration in pre-medical and molecular neuroscience. His interests center on biological mechanisms that underlie neurological disorders, particularly how molecular and cellular processes in the sensory system contribute to changes in cognition and behavior. Inside of the lab, he shadows multiple members to improve his experimental capabilities, and acquire experience and understanding of the process of research. Outside of the lab he enjoys listening, playing, and making music along with playing competitive video games.
Rachell Nixon - Undergraduate Student
Rachell is an undergraduate student majoring in Neuroscience with a concentration in molecular neuroscience. She has an interest in exploring the molecular mechanisms of various sensory systems, including the eye. In the lab, she shadows various members and expands her expertise in experimental neuroscience. Outside of the lab, she enjoys reading, listening to music, and spending time with friends. Upon graduating, she plans to pursue graduate school.
Joseph Ramos - Undergraduate Student
Joseph is a freshman majoring in Biomedical Engineering with a strong interest in stem cell research and retinal biology. He hopes to combine stem cell engineering with translational vision science to develop regenerative approaches for studying and treating retinal disorders.
Alexandra Rodriguez Vega - Undergraduate Student
Alexandra is an undergraduate student double-majoring in Neuroscience and Psychology. Her academic interests focus on the relationship between neural function and behavior, particularly how disruptions in the neural systems influence cognition, mood, and behavior. In the Camacho Lab, she contributes to research examining retinal ganglion cell function and how environmental stressors, such as artificial blue light exposure, may impact neural signaling and behavior-related outcomes using electrophysiological approaches. Outside of the lab, Alexandra is actively involved in campus leadership and student engagement, and she enjoys creating educational programming for peers. Upon graduation, she plans to pursue a Ph.D. in Clinical Neuropsychology.
