Parker Gaines, a student from Dayton, Ohio, is pursuing a dual major in Neuroscience & Behavior and Spanish. He is honored to be a recipient of the Latino Studies Merit Scholarship and brings a profound interest in biomedical research, public health, and policy. Specifically, Parker's biomedical research interests encompass epigenetics, biopsychology, neurodegenerative diseases, cancer, and cardiology. With a commitment to making a positive impact in these fields, Parker aspires to contribute both domestically and internationally by identifying opportunities for improvement within health policy.
In his first year at Notre Dame, Parker assumed the role of a research team lead at the Eck Institute for Global Health. Focusing on Ecuador’s Universal Health Coverage Reform of 2008, his project involves a comprehensive analysis of its impact on public health trends. This includes an examination of its alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, coupled with the formulation of insightful policy recommendations. At the Kellogg Institute, Parker collaborates with Professor Jana Morgan to investigate the intricate relationship between health disparities among minority groups in Colombia, Peru, and the United States, focusing on how this information influences citizens' democratic ideals and values.
Concurrently, Parker diligently works towards his goal of achieving near-native proficiency in Spanish, leveraging his excellent communication skills to connect effectively with diverse populations. His unwavering determination, strong interpersonal skills, and continuous drive to expand knowledge are attributes honed through academic pursuits and pre-professional experiences. Ultimately, Parker envisions himself as a practicing physician, specializing in public and global health expansion and policy. Through his academic journey and active involvement in healthcare advocacy, he aims to address critical issues such as health disparities, promote equitable access to healthcare resources, and contribute positively to the well-being of individuals and communities. Parker is enthusiastic about the opportunity to support the institute’s mission of producing impactful and meaningful research.
KDR Project Advisor:
Jana Morgan