Photo: (lf-rt), Tyler Obermark, Chloe Dunseath, Mariama Lukulay and Julia Razavi
These second-year medical summer research students have been with the Radiology department for over a month now, aiding our radiologists with their research projects. We’ve asked them to introduce themselves.
My name is Tyler Obermark, and I am a medical student at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine. I am from Sullivan, MO, which is an hour southwest of St. Louis, MO. I attended the University of Missouri- St. Louis for my Biochemistry degree.
I decided to pursue medical school because of my own personal experiences with my physician. I wanted to pursue a field where I could learn about the human body in detail and have a platform in medicine, hoping to positively impact others as my physician has done for me.
I am working with Dr. Morin on my project this summer. We are investigating the role that screening CTs have on pediatric patients undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplants.
In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my cat, Vicki; trying out new recipes; playing video games; and going to sports events, especially Dallas Cowboys games!
Hello, my name is Chloe Dunseath, and I am one of the summer medical students from UCCOM. I am working with Dr. Kim Cecil and doing research in MR spectroscopy and environmental exposures. I am interested in DR/IR and excited to rotate through the different specialties in the Radiology department!
I grew up in Amelia, which is a suburb on the east side of Cincinnati. I have fond memories of growing up in Cincinnati like getting ice cream from the Dairy Corner after playing rec league soccer and being on the swim team every summer. The majority of my childhood eventually centered around the pool—I swam competitively until the end of high school. I also coached and lifeguarded at the Anderson Hills Swim Club during the summers here. Every once in a while, I treat myself to my favorite Cincinnati staple: the chili cheese fries from Skyline.
Attending college at the University of Notre Dame was a dream, and I am grateful for my experiences and friendships from South Bend. I look forward to returning to UCCOM as an M2 in the fall! I enjoy being close to home and seeing my parents on non-test weekends.
When not working or doing schoolwork, I enjoy thrifting, reading, and going on walks. I also taught myself to knit and am trying to progress past making square and rectangular-shaped pieces.
Mariama Lukulay, a resident of Germantown, Maryland, has always cherished the joyful memories of her childhood. Among her favorite recollections are the family trips to the beach, where the sound of the waves and the warmth of the sun created unforgettable experiences. These moments of happiness were interwoven with a deep, formative experience that would shape her future—caring for her late grandmother who came to the U.S. from Sierra Leone for cancer treatment.
This profound experience sparked Mariama’s passion for medicine and caregiving. Witnessing her grandmother’s struggle and being part of her care ignited a desire in Mariama to pursue a career where she could make a significant impact on the lives of others. This calling has led her to the world of medical research, where she now works under the guidance of Dr. Morin.
Mariama is currently involved in a fascinating study examining the degree of 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) uptake in brown adipose tissue in children and young adults. This research focuses on individuals undergoing FDG-PET scans across various preparation strategies. The study aims to enhance understanding of how brown adipose tissue functions and how it can be accurately measured and analyzed through imaging techniques. This work is not only pivotal in advancing medical knowledge but also in improving diagnostic and treatment strategies for young patients.
Beyond her professional pursuits, Mariama enjoys a variety of leisure activities that enrich her life. She is an avid reader of crime fiction novels, finding excitement and intrigue in the complex plots and characters. Comedy shows offer her a chance to relax and laugh, providing a delightful contrast to her intense work. Mariama also has a passion for exploring new cuisines, always eager to try new foods and experience different cultures through their culinary traditions. Her love for traveling ties all these interests together, as she enjoys discovering new places, meeting new people, and experiencing the diverse beauty the world has to offer.
Mariama Lukulay’s journey from Germantown to her current research role is a testament to her dedication and passion for medicine and caregiving. Her work under Dr. Morin is contributing to important advancements in medical imaging and understanding of brown adipose tissue, while her personal interests and hobbies keep her grounded and inspired. As she continues to explore and innovate in her field, Mariama remains committed to making a positive impact on the world around her.
Hello, my name is Julia Razavi, and I am from Medina, Ohio, a suburb of Cleveland. I earned my B.S. in biology from Miami University before starting medical school at UC, where I recently finished my first year.
I was drawn to medicine by its blend of scientific inquiry, problem-solving, and direct impact on patient health. This summer, under the guidance of Dr. Dillman, I am focusing on MR elastography in patients who have undergone a Fontan procedure. My project aims to identify predictors of liver stiffness and evaluate longitudinal changes in liver stiffness within this patient group.
In my free time, I like to train for 5k and half marathon races, cook, and explore Cincinnati’s vibrant restaurant scene.
Glenn Miñano is a media specialist in the Department of Radiology, providing graphic design, photography, printing, video services, and administration of the department’s online properties. His works have been published in several medical articles, such as the American Journal of Radiology and the American Institute of Ultrasound. He has been providing these services to the Radiology Department since 1996.
Meredith Towbin is a freelance copy editor and writer. She has copyedited the Department of Radiology’s blog since it launched. She also works as a copy editor for the home improvement website BobVila.com. Her writing has been featured on HuffPost as well as other writing sites.
