Hannah is a scientist, educator, and mentor dedicated to translating complex research into insights that inspire curiosity, foster growth, and connect science to real-world impact. She earned her Ph.D. in Molecular Physiology and Biophysics at Vanderbilt University School of Medicine in Dr. Alan Cherrington’s lab. She is currently a postdoctoral scholar in the Cherrington lab, studying full-body metabolic physiology in large animal models with a focus on liver glucose metabolism. In February 2026, she will join Duke University to expand her research into human physiology under the mentorship of Drs. Jonathan Campbell and David D’Alessio. Her work will explore how pancreatic alpha cell signals coordinate insulin secretion and hepatic glucose metabolism in people with type 2 diabetes, reframing glucagon biology as a dynamic regulator of metabolism.

Hannah’s path to science has been shaped by resilience, curiosity, and mentors who recognized her potential. Growing up disadvantaged in a rural town in Washington, she faced challenges largely on her own while discovering a deep love of learning. Recognized early for her talent in math and science, she excelled in advanced courses, balanced athletics and leadership roles, and actively sought research opportunities. At Linfield University, she earned an Honors B.S. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Mathematics while conducting independent research on the human PPARγ gene under Dr. Megan Bestwick, laying the foundation for her passion in metabolism, physiology, and translational science. During this time, she also gained hands-on experience as a laboratory intern and specimen processing specialist at Precision Analytical Inc.

During her Ph.D. at Vanderbilt, Hannah investigated the physiologic and cellular mechanisms of the second-meal phenomenon. Her research showed that morning insulin establishes hepatic metabolic memory, enhancing subsequent postprandial glucose uptake and glycogen storage through coordinated insulin-dependent and insulin-independent mechanisms. Her work combined sophisticated metabolic clamp studies with a variety of transcriptomic and proteomic analyses, linking physiology to molecular adaptations. Her research earned multiple first-author publications, nearly 20 presentations at local, national, and international meetings, and recognition through prestigious awards, including the 2025 Vanderbilt Basic Sciences Dean’s Award for Exceptional Achievement and the 2025 Vanderbilt Diabetes Scholar Award.

Alongside her research, Hannah is deeply committed to teaching and mentorship. She holds a Certificate in College Teaching with specializations in STEM and online education and has extensive experience tutoring and TA’ing across K-12 and higher education. Over the past two years, she has taught Human Physiology courses for gifted students through Vanderbilt’s Peabody College and has guided countless students and trainees in science, fostering curiosity, confidence, and growth.

Hannah founded The Metabolism Lab to provide the guidance and clarity she wished she had as a young scientist. The Lab translates complex research into clear, engaging insights, shares stories from the scientific community, and offers mentorship and resources to empower learners. She is especially committed to supporting young women and underrepresented voices in STEM, helping them navigate science and build confidence.

For Hannah, science is not only about discovery. It is about connection, opportunity, and lifting others as you rise. Through her research, teaching, and The Metabolism Lab, she works to advance knowledge while creating pathways for others to succeed, inspiring curiosity, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning.