Team

Lindsey Moon

PhD Student
B.S. University Albany 2022

Hi, I’m Lindsey, and I am a PhD student! I love molecular biology, and I work in the Palmer lab studying  interactions between bacterial species.
Before coming to Binghamton, I worked in multiple undergraduate research labs, studying various topics ranging from phytoplankton speciation to developing small molecule therapeutics.
When I’m not in the lab, I’m usually with my friends or family. I love being around people and getting to do things I enjoy with them, like hiking, kayaking, or just chatting over coffee. I am always excited to be able to be outside, even if it is just to relax and read a book (or endless journal articles)!

Briana Barros

PhD Student
B.S. Stockton University 2024

Hi! My name is Briana, and I am a PhD student in Biological Sciences. My research in the Palmer lab focuses on the dynamics of competition between different strains of Escherichia coli (E. coli). I’ve been a biology lover for a long time. I did have an amazing undergraduate research experience working on finding bacteria with antibacterial properties. These early opportunities are what sparked my interest in microbiology specifically. Beyond the lab, I love binge watching TV whether it’s an informative docu-series or reality television. Also, when everyone’s schedules align, I love spending time with the people I care about enjoying a relaxed evening.

Alexa Mastrangelo

PhD Student
B.S. Binghamton University 2025

Hi, my name is Alexa and I’m a PhD student. In the Palmer Lab, I work with bacteriophages to investigate their range of infectivity in different strains of E.coli and eventually hope to quantify other parts of their life cycle such as latency period and burst size. When I’m not in the lab, you can find me baking with my roommates, watching horror movies, reading all kinds of books, and learning guitar.

Sabela Zablackis

PhD Student
B.S. Millersville University of Pennsylvania 2025

Hi my name is Sabela Zablackis, I am a PhD student of Biological Sciences. I love studying molecular biology, microbiology and biochemistry! I am currently working in the Palmer Lab on developing methods to study the vaginal microbiome in the context of community interaction and colonization resistance of pathogens and other bacteria. 

Before coming to Binghamton I performed undergraduate research in species identification and primer development of homologously similar fish species. When I am not in the lab you can find me walking on trails, running, or reading. 

Siraz Ercan

MA Researcher

Hi, my name is Siraz and I am a MA student in Biological Sciences. My research at the Palmer Lab is centered on the production and efficacy of E. coli toxins as well as the interactions between various strains. Eventually, I plan to be a veterinarian in the future.

Isabella Vento

Undergraduate Researcher

Hi, I am Isabella Vento, studying towards a BS in Biology. I am currently investigating the interactions between various strains of E. coli and Salmonella enterica and how they may be applied to interactions within the human gut microbiota. My goal is to apply this research to my future endeavors working towards obtaining my MD and becoming a board-certified physican. Outside of the lab, I have a passion for sports, and coaching soccer as well as a huge reader and movie nerd.

Ariela Bustos

Undergraduate Researcher

Hello! I am Ariela, a Biological Sciences undergraduate with a pre-med concentration. I am interested in specializing in obstetrics/gynecology and am excited to apply my studies and research on the vaginal microbiome to this pursuit. In my free time, I enjoy needlework, baking, reading Agatha Christie, and watching procedural shows with my friends.