Team

Clare arrived to her career in science via an English degree, followed by a short career in journalism. Thanks to California community colleges and the Cal State L.A. MORE Programs, she transitioned into physics. After studying condensed matter theory with Dr. Edward Rezayi, she studied experimental biophysics with Dr. Jeff Gore at MIT, predicting bacterial community outcomes in the lab with models. She then did a postdoc with Dr. Dmitri Petrov at Stanford, where she harnessed a DNA barcoding system to study experimental evolution in Saccharomyces cerevisiae (brewer's yeast). 

Dawson is a laboratory associate in the Abreu Lab! Before arriving at New York University, Dawson studied Earth and Environmental Science at the University of Michigan. At UM, Dawson worked with Dr. Nathan Sheldon and Dr. Selena Smith to answer questions about microbial biogeochemistry in Michigan wetlands and the impacts of the rhizosphere microbiome on Mnomen (wild rice) distribution. Dawson has a wide array of interests, from microbial genomics and plants to baking and singing!

Madeline Lucas-Cedeno is currently pursuing her Master of Science in Biology at New York University. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Molecular Biology, with a minor in Chemistry, from Montclair State University. During her undergraduate studies, Madeline worked in Dr. Petroff’s lab, where she focused on studying the inhibition of carbonic anhydrase in adrenal cancer cells, contributing to advancements in cancer research. Her research interests lie in molecular biology, microbiology, and exploring therapeutic approaches to combat diseases. As a first-generation college graduate, Madeline is passionate about fostering diversity in STEM and mentoring underrepresented students.

Trang is an undergraduate student double majoring in Biological Sciences and Classical Studies with a minor in Women and Gender Studies. Her academic interests include microbial systems, host-microbe interactions, and craniofacial development, with a focus on oral health and biofilm formation.

She began her journey at Lone Star College, where she discovered her passion for research and community-focused science. Trang plans to pursue both a DDS and PhD to advance dental research and expand access to care for underserved communities. She’s also a skilled(ish) barista! With her favorite latte pours being stacked tulips and swans that sometimes resemble more like a duck.

Lily is an undergraduate student at the College of Arts and Sciences studying Biology with minors in Environmental Studies and Psychology. Her research interests lie in microbial ecology, botany, and climate science. She also serves as an active member in several ecology-related organizations at NYU including the NYU S.E.E.D.S. chapter and The Community Agriculture Project where you can find her gardening and observing native pollinators. 

If you are interested in joining the Abreu lab, contact Clare with a description of your research interests. If you are interested in a postdoctoral position, please also include a CV.