Our Team

Qudus Ayomide Ojikutu (OJ)

Graduate Research Assistant

Ojikutu Qudus Ayomide (RCS) is a first year Msc Exercise Physiology student, He originates from Lagos Nigeria, where He received his undergraduate degree in Physiology from Lagos State University, he began his career as a cardiac sonographer in a hospital in Nigeria. His transition to a research-focused role at Purdue University showcases his dedication to academic exploration.
Joining the Human Neurovascular lab as a Graduate research assistant, Ojikutu specializes in Adult Echocardiography for human cardiac studies. His research pursuits are notably centered on using an integrative approach to identify the underlying mechanisms of autonomic and vascular dysfunction, particularly focusing on conditions like hypertension and heart failure.
Beyond his academic pursuits, Ojikutu finds joy in traveling, playing video games, and keeping up with the latest research articles. This blend of professional dedication and personal interests demonstrates a well-rounded individual with a passion for both scientific inquiry and diverse leisure activities.

Ernesto Ramirez

Graduate Research Assistant

Ernesto Ramirez is a graduate student pursuing his M.S. in Exercise Physiology. Before joining the graduate program at Purdue, Ernesto attended Aurora University and received a bachelor’s in exercise science and psychology. Ernesto played football while attended Aurora. He plans to finish his master’s, get his PhD and enter academia. In his free time, Ernesto like to work out and hang out with his family.

Maria Clara Goes

International Visiting Scholar (PhD student)

Maria Clara is a PhD student in the Graduate Program in Medicine (Pulmonology) at the Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP), Brazil. She was born in Brazil and currently lives in São Paulo, where she conducts her doctoral research and works as a preceptor in the Adult Intensive Care Program at UNIFESP.
She received her bachelor’s degree in Physical Therapy from the Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte (2013) and her master’s degree in Physical Therapy from the same institution in 2017. She is also completing a postgraduate specialization in Cardiorespiratory Physical Therapy at the Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte. Her academic and clinical interests focus on cardiopulmonary and critical care rehabilitation, and she hopes to pursue an academic career after completing her PhD.
In her free time, she enjoys playing with her son and spending time with family and friends.

Rachel Bailey

Undergrad Research Assistant

Rachel Bailey is a senior majoring in Nutrition, Fitness, and Health with a Pre-Physical Therapy concentration. She was born and raised near Indianapolis, Indiana. She has worked for the Purdue Sports Nutrition department and has plans of going to physical therapy school in the future. In her free time, she loves going to the gym, spending time with her friends, and being outdoors. 

Kathryn Oliger

Undergrad Research Assistant

Katie Oliger is a senior majoring in Biochemistry with a Pre-Medicine concentration. She grew up in Mt. Zion, Illinois but currently lives in the Lafayette area with her family. She is a certified Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) and has plans of going to medical school in the future. In her free time, she enjoys running, coaching soccer, and riding horses. 

Gabriel Olsen

Undergrad Research Assistant

Gabriel Olsen is a freshman in kinesiology with a pre-med concentration.  He was born in Utah, but grew up near Milwaukee, Wisconsin.  He is involved with clubs in the College of Health and Human Sciences such as the mentorship program and has ambitions to attend medical school when he graduates.  In his free time, he enjoys skiing, camping, and swimming in Lake Michigan.

Hector Guzman Gomez

Undergrad Research Assistant

Hector Guzman Gomez is a sophomore majoring in Kinesiology. He was born in Monterrey, Mexico but grew up in Rochester, Michigan. Hector plans on attending Physician Assistant School after graduating from Purdue but he is also open to more career paths. In his free time Hector likes to watch or play sports.

Robert Sorensen

Undergrad Research Assistant

Robert Sorensen is a sophomore majoring in Biomedical Health Sciences with a Pre-Medicine Concentration. Born and raised in Indianapolis, he is a driven and disciplined student with a strong passion for serving others. Robert plans to pursue medical school and is also interested in research-focused graduate study. In his free time, Robert enjoys playing basketball, working out, and spending time with family and friends.

Annabella Lau

Undergrad Research Assistant

Annabella Lau is a junior majoring in Kinesiology with a Pre-Medicine Track and a Chinese minor. She was born and raised in the city of Chicago, Illinois. She is involved in Purdue Student Government and mentor positions within the College of Health and Human Sciences and has plans to attend medical school in the future. She likes to run, swim, practice Pilates, and is currently in the process of obtaining her ACE fitness instructor license!

Alison Persinger

Undergrad Research Assistant

Ali Persinger is a sophomore majoring in Kinesiology with a concentration in sports medicine and a minor in psychology. She is from Carmel, IN, and currently works as a pharmacy technician but plans to attend physical therapy school after completing her undergraduate degree. At Purdue, she is also involved in Boiler Gold Rush and HHS Mentors. In her free time, she likes to participate in intramural sports, travel, bake, and spend time with her friends.