Research

Kevin Rice's research investigates the neurobiological mechanisms underlying gut-brain axis communication, focusing on enteroendocrine cells (EECs) and the vagal neurons they synapse with. Specifically, he is interested in utilizing patch-clamp electrophysiology to characterize which microbially derived gut compounds are influencing neuronal excitability and the mechanisms driving these interactions. His work ultimately aims to contribute to a better understanding of how disruptions in gut-brain signaling may influence neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD). He is co-advised by Dr. Kenton Hokanson. Outside of the lab, Kevin is an avid distance runner and board gamer.

Education

Kevin Rice graduated with a B.S. in Biochemistry from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in 2022 and joined the David Lab as a PhD student in 2023.