Jonila Shehu

Investigating GR and CRHR1 as potential molecular pathways that modulate early-life adversity-induced changes in microglial function.

Graduate Research Assistant - Bolton Lab, Neuroscience Institute, GSU - Atlanta, GA

(2026-01)

Investigating GR and CRHR1 as potential molecular pathways that modulate early-life adversity-induced changes in microglial function.

University Assistantship Position - Bolton Lab, Neuroscience Institute, GSU - Atlanta, GA

(2021-08 - 2025-12)

Selected as a paid undergraduate researcher (renewed for 4 years).

• Conducted research on (1) sexually dimorphic effects of early-life adversity on microglia and behavior, and (2) unintended effects of CX3CR1-Cre on microglial function, correlating findings with behavioral outcomes.

Undergraduate Summer Intern - NSF National Synthesis Center for Emergence in the Molecular and Cellular Sciences - State College, Pennsylvania

(2025-05 - 2025-08)

• Analyzed transcriptional bursting dynamics across different promoters using live-cell imaging and time-series modeling in Python.
• Quantified bursting dynamics by applying unsupervised machine learning tools (Hidden Markov Models) to fluorescence traces from segmented nuclei.

Brains & Behavior Scholar - Bolton Lab, Neuroscience Institute, GSU - Atlanta, GA

(2022-06 - 2024-08)

Selected as a scholar for 3 consecutive summers to support ongoing research in the Bolton Lab.

Engineering Intern - BioCircuit Technologies, Inc.

(2025-09)

• Supporting operations and logistics, including quality inspection of the Nerve Tape product and coordinating package shipments.
• Assisting in human data collection for the Arrayed Surface Potential ElectroNeurography (ASPEN) system, recording peripheral nerve conduction signals in healthy participants to establish normative baselines for device calibration.

Graduate Teaching Assistant - Biology Department, GSU - Atlanta, GA

(2026-01)

BIOL 2107L: Principles of Biology I Laboratory

• Independently leading laboratory instruction, teaching core biology concepts to undergraduate students.
• Topics include the scientific method, macromolecules, diffusion/osmosis, microscopy, microbial analysis, DNA electrophoresis, and spectrophotometry.

Teaching Assistant - BrainCamp Education Program - Pristina, Kosovo

(2024-07 - 2024-08)

Assisted in delivering an intensive neuroscience program aimed at introducing youth (ages 14–18) to brain science and related career opportunities in Kosovo.

• Mentored students on academic pathways and study abroad options in neuroscience, addressing the limited local opportunities in Kosovo.

Student Mediator - Science Gallery Atlanta by Emory University - Atlanta, GA

(2022-01 - 2022-12)

Guided and interacted with visitors through interdisciplinary exhibitions on the neuroscience of addiction.

M.S. - Neuroscience - Georgia State University, Honors College & College of Arts and Sciences (2026-12)

B.S. - Neuroscience - Georgia State University, Honors College & College of Arts and Sciences (2025-12)