F&M Alum Pursues Neuroscience Research, Champions Diversity

Franklin & Marshall Posse Miami alum Danielle Antoine is studying for her Ph.D. in neuroscience at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. Danielle is a recipient of the National Institute of Health (NIH) Ruth L. Kirschstein Predoctoral Individual National Research Service Award. The prestigious award provides funding for graduate study and an extensive network of support.

For Danielle, the highly competitive fellowship is helping to fund her research on the connection between the health of the gut microbiome and pain hypersensitivity.

“The NIH grant is a dream come true,” she says. “I couldn’t have dreamed this far without winning Posse first. Posse opened these doors.”

I couldn’t have dreamed this far without winning Posse first. Posse opened these doors.

Danielle credits her Posse mentor, Dr. Timothy Roth, with suggesting she pursue a PhD.

“Initially, I was pre-med, but after talking with my teachers at F&M and with Dr. Roth, I realized there was a career in research,” she says. “It’s a job I didn’t totally know existed.”

In addition to her interest in research, Danielle is passionate about making the sciences more inclusive. She embraces being a role model for other Black women and students of color.

This dedication to diversity in the sciences inspired Danielle to co-found and co-chair a committee at the University of Miami to support students of color by organizing events that showcase the resources available to them.

Danielle continues to give back to The Posse Foundation as an active member of the Miami alumni community. In May, Danielle presented her research to the current cohort of Pre-Collegiate Training Scholars for Posse Miami’s annual Academic Immersion Day, hosted at Deloitte’s Miami office.

“It was amazing to give back to the community and connect with new Scholars,” she says. “It was a rewarding experience to share my work and offer advice, just as my professors, trainers, and other Posse alum have done for me. It was a full-circle moment.”