Principal Investigator

Giovanniello Lab was started by Dr. Jacqueline Giovanniello in January of 2025 at Temple University’s Lewis Katz School of Medicine. Here she also began as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Neural Sciences to aid in the advancement of scientific discovery and provide world-class education in the field. She began her neuroscience career at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory under Dr. Bo Li as a PhD student focusing on deepening the understanding of disrupted neural circuits involved in Autism Spectrum Disorder. She then worked as a Postdoctoral Researcher in the Wassum Lab with Dr. Kate Wassum using techniques such as optogenetics, chemogenetics, fiber photometry, and slice electrophysiology to understand which neural circuits promote maladaptive habit formation as a result of stress. Currently, her research expands on how stress affects decision making, specifically in the context of premature maladaptive habit formation. 

Curriculum Vitae Google Scholar ✉ jackiegio@temple.edu

Laboratory Assistant I

Andrew obtained his bachelor's degree in Psychology with a Biopsychology specialization from The College of New Jersey in 2023. He worked on his thesis titled The Effects of Environmental Enrichment on Ethanol Consumption in Male-Long Evans Rats Using a Sipper-tube Model under Dr. Margaret Martinetti during his 4th year. Currently, he is hoping to gain further experience in neuroscience and behavioral science to pursue a career in academia. 

✉ andrew.velasquez0001@temple.edu

Undergraduate Research Assistant

Symantha is a sophomore Biology major on the Pre-Med track at Temple University, where she plans to graduate by 2028. She is part of the CST Summer Undergraduate Research Experience (SURE) and hopes to gain hands-on experience and become familiar with lab techniques. After graduation, Symantha plans to pursue Medical School to become a neurologist. 

Undergraduate Research Assistant

Kristen is a senior Biology major with a Psychology minor at Temple University, where she plans to graduate Fall of 2025. She is part of the BRIDGE Scholar Research Program and hopes to gain a deeper understanding of scientific principles, specifically those at the intersection of biology and psychology. After graduation, Kristen hopes to pursue a career as a Physician Assistant, where she can provide compassionate care to patients while playing a vital role in improving health outcomes.

Undergraduate Research Assistant

​​Jessica is a junior majoring in Pharmaceutical Sciences at Temple University, where she is enrolled in the Accelerated (3+4) Pharmacy Program and expects to graduate in 2027. She is passionate about advancing research in oncology and substance use disorders and aims to further explore these areas through academic and clinical research opportunities. Jessica hopes to pursue a career as a clinical pharmacist or in nuclear pharmacy, where she can contribute to patient-centered care and innovative treatment approaches.

Undergraduate Research Assistant

Avery is a senior Biology major at Temple University who intends to graduate in 2026. She is a part of the College of Science and Technology’s Summer Research Scholar Program and has heavily involved herself in the Temple community. Over the past four years, Avery has guided other students as a Wellness Center Peer Educator and CST Peer Leader. Avery has also athletically represented Temple as a member of Women’s Rugby.