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.

Eloisa Herrera Ospina

Graduate Research Assistant

Eloisa Herrera Ospina is a graduate student pursuing her M.S. in Exercise Physiology. She earned her B.S. in Physical Therapy from the National University of Colombia and completed a research stay at Purdue University, where her interest in research, particularly in cardiovascular and neural control, deepened. This passion led her to join the HNVC Lab. Previously, she was a member of the “Muscle Health and Critical Care” research group at the National University of Colombia, contributing to various projects. Eloisa has experience in focused ultrasound, cardiovascular-pulmonary physiology, and critical care, and has represented her university at two national physiotherapy research meetings, earning first place for her contributions. In her free time, she enjoys cooking, baking, and spending time with family and friends.

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.

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. 

Olivia Mason

Undergrad Research Assistant

Olivia Mason is a junior majoring in Kinesiology with a Pre-Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine concentration. She was born in California but grew up near Indianapolis. She is involved in other clubs and mentor positions within the College of Health and Human Sciences and has plans to attend physical therapy school in the future. In her free time, she loves going to church, hanging out with family, and petting every dog she sees!

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 Persinge

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.