Meet The Team
Jennifer Wong, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
I am an Assistant Professor in the Departments of Human Genetics and Pediatrics (Children's Center for Neurosciences Research, CCNR) at Emory University. I received my Ph.D. in Neuroscience from the University of Georgia where I studied the role of dietary carotenoids, lutein and zeaxanthin, on visual and auditory function. For my postdoctoral training, I joined the laboratory of Dr. Andrew Escayg at Emory University where I studied the impact of sodium channel epilepsy genes and other epilepsy genes on seizure susceptibility and behavior. This work led to my continued research interests in studying the development and progression of pediatric epilepsy genes over the lifespan with the long-term goal of developing better treatments.
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​In addition to research, I enjoy training and mentoring students both within the laboratory and in the classroom. I am very active in serving the epilepsy and broader communities. I am a Contributing Editor for the American Epilepsy Society Epilepsy Currents and a scientific advisor for Combined Brain- representing families with SCN8A epilepsy mutations.
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Outside of the lab, I enjoy hanging out with friends and family, trying new restaurants, a good afternoon nap, yoga, and running! One of my life goals is to maintain my current pace until I’m 90 in the hopes of qualifying for the Boston marathon!
I received my B.S. Biology and B.S Psychology from the University of New Mexico (go ‘bos!) where I used fMRI to understand memory circuit dysfunction after traumatic brain injury. I started my time in the Emory Neuroscience Graduate Program in 2023 and joined the lab this summer! My project focuses on the intersection of Alzheimer’s Disease and epileptiform activity, utilizing mouse models, behavioral, and molecular neuroscience approaches. Outside of the lab, I enjoy participating in my book club, time with my fish, Captain, and practicing American Sign Language with friends and family. I am hard-of-hearing and passionate about making the scientific community a safe and inclusive space for anyone and everyone!
Katie James, B.S.
Neuroscience graduate student
Sarah Gruschow, B.S.
Research Specialist
Hi! I’m Sarah, a recent UGA graduate in Biomedical Physiology and Pharmaceutical Science with a strong interest in research, especially in the pharmaceutical and biotech fields. My background includes studying how vitamin B1 insufficiency contributes to Alzheimer’s disease, along with hands-on work formulating tablets and capsules while following GMP and regulatory guidelines. Before shifting my focus to research, I worked in clinical care as an EMT and monitor tech, which gave me a real appreciation for how scientific advances directly impact patients.
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Outside of work, I’ve been learning Korean on Duolingo, playing video games with friends, and staying active by playing tennis with my family. I’m really excited to be part of the team and look forward to contributing to all the great work happening here.
Hi, I’m Rebecca Littlehale, a senior at Agnes Scott College! I’m originally from New England, a college softball player, and a proud dog mom to a giant schnauzer named Stevie Nicks. During the school year, I’ve been researching the neuroprotective effects of Cordyceps militaris in peri-menopausal mice, which sparked my growing interest in translational neuroscience. I’m excited to be part of the Wong Lab this summer at Emory University and continue exploring how neuroscience research can inform future therapies!
Rebecca Littlehale
Undergraduate research student
Grace Sohn
Undergraduate research student
Hi! I am a sophomore undergraduate from Portland, Oregon. I will join the Wong Lab in Fall 2025! Currently, I am pursuing a major in Biology and Psychology with a growing interest in neuroscience research and epilepsy genetics. Outside of the lab, I like to experiment with audio production, read, and make balloon animals for volunteering events. I am looking forward to contributing and growing as a scientist during my time here, exploring a biology-focused research project!
Lab Alumni
Eesha Faiz, B.A.
2022-2025
Volunteer at the Children's Healthcare of Atlanta (CHOA)