Pictured left to right: Dr. Dilan Rasool, Dr. Caroline Pearson, Dr. Teresa Milner, Ritika Rohatgi and Dr. Li Fan. Credit: Billy Coronas
The Helen & Robert Appel Institute for Alzheimer's Disease Research is proud to congratulate Ritika Rohatgi and Dr. Li Fan on the successful completion of the 2026 Appel Summer Scholar Program.
Throughout the program, Ritika conducted research in the Gan Laboratory under Dr. Fan's mentorship, gaining hands-on experience in neuroscience research while contributing to ongoing studies focused on understanding the mechanisms of neurodegenerative disease. Their collaboration culminated in an outstanding final presentation, highlighting the scientific progress achieved during the summer.
Ritika, a rising senior at Barnard College of Columbia University, is pursuing a degree in Neuroscience and Behavior with a minor in Mathematical Sciences. She plans to pursue an MD-PhD and build a career as a physician-scientist dedicated to advancing research in cognitive and computational neuroscience and developing new therapeutic strategies for Alzheimer's disease and other neurodegenerative disorders.
The Appel Summer Scholar Program provides talented undergraduate students with the opportunity to engage in immersive research experiences alongside faculty mentors at the Appel Institute. Through mentorship, scientific training, and participation in the Institute's research community, the program aims to inspire and prepare the next generation of neuroscience researchers.
We extend our sincere congratulations to Ritika on completing the program and thank Dr. Li Fan for her outstanding mentorship and commitment to scientific training. We are especially pleased that Ritika will continue her research in the Gan Laboratory as she begins her undergraduate thesis, and we look forward to following her continued accomplishments.
Congratulations, Ritika and Dr. Fan, on a successful summer and best wishes for the exciting work ahead!