06/05/2026
This week, we are excited to welcome an outstanding group of future scientists, physicians, and innovators to the MUSC Institute for Neuroscience Discovery (MIND). Over the next eight weeks, these students will immerse themselves in neuroscience research, clinical shadowing, scientific writing, data analysis, and hands-on learning experiences designed to inspire the next generation of neuroscience leaders.
Meet our 2026 Summer Scholars:
🔹 Spencer Pierce Edgerton (Davidson College)
Inspired by an early MUSC neuroscience summer program, Spencer is fascinated by how the brain shapes human experiences and neurological disease.
🔹 Reagan Sophia Perkins (Clemson University)
Reagan developed a strong passion for mental health, psychiatry, and understanding the neurological foundations of disease and treatment.
🔹 Jonah Donato Chinitz (University of South Carolina)
After witnessing a stroke patient struggle with speech and movement, Jonah became interested in how changes in the brain affect identity, behavior, and recovery.
🔹 London Naomi Bligen (Fort Dorchester High School & Trident Technical College)
London's interest in neuroscience was inspired by watching her grandfather recover from a stroke and a close friend overcome a severe concussion.
🔹 Niki Shafaei (Academic Magnet High School)
As a competitive gymnast, Niki's experiences with injury sparked a curiosity about human physiology and the neurological mechanisms that influence performance and recovery.
🔹 Karter Richard Maysey (Philip Simmons High School)
Karter is fascinated by the brain as the source of human thought, creativity, emotion, and achievement.
🔹 Ariam Kinfe Gebreegziabher (Hanahan High School)
Driven by a natural curiosity about the brain, behavior, and mental health, Ariam is eager to explore the world of neuroscience research.
Throughout the summer, these students will work alongside faculty, researchers, clinicians, residents, and medical students to develop independent research projects while gaining firsthand exposure to clinical neuroscience and neurosurgery.
We are honored to support their journey and can't wait to see what they accomplish.
🚀 Welcome to the MIND family, Summer Experience Class of 2026!
🧠✨
