Sydney Houser

Sydney Houser is a 2025–2029 Self Graduate Fellow pursuing a Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Chemistry at the University of Kansas. She earned her B.S. in Biological Sciences and Psychology with a concentration in Neuroscience and a minor in Biochemistry from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in 2023. While at UNL, Sydney’s research focused on bridging substance use with the experimental analysis of behavior, while collaborating with other labs to examine neural correlates. Drawn to the intersection of neuroscience, biochemistry, and therapeutics, she now investigates the uptake and degradation of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) in the brain. Her work explores how mAbs are internalized by brain cells, what intracellular compartments they traverse, and the endocytic pathways that may contribute to their rapid clearance. This research aims to improve the viability of mAbs as treatments for neurodegenerative diseases by identifying strategies to enhance their retention in the brain.

Beyond the lab, Sydney is interested in the broader contexts in which science operates—particularly how research connects with public understanding and policy. Over time, she has become increasingly aware of the challenges in communicating science clearly and accessibly. While she remains open to a range of career paths, she is currently exploring opportunities in both industry and science policy. Through involvement with Jayhawks for Science Policy and Loud Light, she is developing skills in science communication and advocacy, with the goal of contributing to more informed decision-making and public engagement with science.

Mentor: Carlo Barnaba, Ph.D. Assistant Professor, Pharmaceutical Chemistry.