Wenxi Shan

• Investigate serotonergic modulation of optogenetically evoked escape behavior in Drosophila larvae.
• Design and run behavioral assays using the Zantiks system and custom Zanscript programs.
• Optimize optogenetic stimulation parameters to ensure reliable activation of the serotonin giant fiber pathway.
• Analyze automated behavioral tracking data to quantify escape-related locomotor responses.
• Compare baseline and post–5-HTP administration behavioral patterns to assess serotonergic effects.

• Conduct resting-state functional connectivity analyses to study hippocampal–parietal interactions underlying episodic memory.
• Focus on functional dissociations between posterior (PGp) and anterior (PGa) angular gyrus within the default mode network.
• Perform data preprocessing, denoising, and group-level analyses using CONN and MATLAB.
• Integrate neuroimaging results with literature on episodic memory, DMN, and intrinsic brain networks.
• Collaborate on a research-style written report and accompanying neuroimaging analysis project.

• Serve as an Event Coordinator for Active Minds, a national organization promoting mental health awareness and stigma reduction.

• Plan and coordinate wellness-focused campus events that foster community connection and open conversations about mental well-being.

• Collaborate with fellow coordinators to design inclusive, low-barrier programs promoting restorative practices.

• Support content development for the Resting to Rise podcast, which explores rest, well-being, and societal attitudes toward restorative practices.
• Review podcast episodes, identify meaningful clips, and curate inspirational materials aligned with the show’s themes.
• Assist with media preparation and learn foundational podcast production skills, including audio editing workflows and narrative storytelling techniques.
• Collaborate with faculty mentors and student team members to support future episode development.

• Taught environmental awareness and marine conservation courses under the PADI framework, focusing on coral reef ecosystems and sustainability
• Analyzed sources of marin pollution, identified the most polluted regions globally, and examined causes of coral bleaching
• Researched fish species distribution in specific sea areas and integrated findings into conservation-focused course content
• Promoted ocean stewardship by educating students on ecological challenges and practical conservation strategies

• Directed publicity campaigns by editing videos, designing posters, and distributing promotional materials for school events
• Coordinated interdepartmental communication and managed announcements to ensure smooth collaboration between teams
• Strengthened school-community connections by organizing joint events and fostering student engagement

• Led club operations and recruitment during school enrollment activities; increased membership from 20+ to 40+ though active promotion and engagement
• Implemented the Pyramid Management Model to improve organizational efficiency and foster collaboration among members
• Organized school-wide book donation drives, collecting 200+ books in the first year and 400+ books in the second year, expanding resources for student reader