Morgan Strecker: From Behavioral Neuroscience to Children’s Hospital Research

Morgan Strecker ’26 has long been fascinated by the brain and nervous system, and Dyson’s BS in Behavioral Neuroscience program gave her the opportunity to explore that interest in depth. Through courses in systems behavioral neuroscience, functional neuroanatomy, and molecular and cellular biology, she developed a deeper understanding of how biological systems connect and how scientific inquiry can lead to meaningful medical advances. After graduation, Strecker will work as a research technician in Dr. Veronique Lefebvre’s lab at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, studying genetic mutations and stem cell differentiation while preparing for a future in medicine and potentially an MD/PhD pathway.

Morgan Strecker ’26

BS in Behavioral Neuroscience

Image

Next step: Research technician, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia

What drew you to behavioral neuroscience?

I have always been fascinated by the brain and nervous system, and this program gave me the opportunity to explore the topics I was most interested in. I also plan to attend medical school, and many of the upper-level courses are taught in ways that mirror the depth and systems-based approach used in medical education.

Which courses helped prepare you for what’s next?
Some of my favorite courses were Systems Behavioral Neuroscience, Functional Neuroanatomy, and Molecular and Cellular Biology. They challenged me to think more critically about how biological processes are interconnected and reinforced how connected the systems of the body truly are.

What are your post-graduation plans?
I will be working as a research technician in Professor Veronique Lefebvre’s lab at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, studying genetic mutations and how they impact stem cell differentiation. I also plan to apply to medical school, and possibly MD/PhD programs, with the goal of pursuing a career as a physician.