Kaylyn Flanigan

Kaylyn is a PhD student in Dr. Jari Willing's lab of developmental neuroendocrinology at Bowling Green State University (BGSU). She graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with a biology undergraduate degree before earning a Master of Science degree from BGSU under the advisement of Dr. Daniel Wiegmann and Dr. Vern Bingman. Her research interests include the effects of environmental toxicants on behavior and brain development, specifically in the hippocampus, and the role of functionally equivalent structures guiding invertebrate navigation.  

At BGSU Kaylyn is an Instructor of Record in the Psychology Department and works in the Office of Accessibility Services. In these roles, Kaylyn has developed her personal pedagogy and interest in accessible and equitable education opportunities for her students. Both her research and educational background have inspired her to pursue policy opportunities. 

Outside of research, education, and policy, Kaylyn enjoys trying new things (she is an amateur roller skater and birder), spending time with friends, especially outside or on adventures, and being a good mom to her two cats, Samoa and Bagheera.  

This summer, Kaylyn is an Ohio Public Interest Fellow working with the Ohio Department of Education Office of Approaches to Teaching and Professional Learning focusing on STEM education policy, resources, and advancements.