Principal Investigator
Manuel Giannoni-Guzmán, PhD
I am a neurophysiologist and chronobiologist interested in how circadian rhythms shape social behavior and resilience in honey bees. My lab studies the neural, molecular, and genetic mechanisms that regulate temporal organization, with a focus on how environmental stressors and genetic variation influence bee behavior, memory, and health.
We use approaches from neurophysiology, molecular genetics, transcriptomics, and behavioral assays to investigate how circadian clocks function in the bee brain, how they support complex collective behaviors, and how environmental changes alter clock function and behavior.
Outside the lab, I enjoy weightlifting, scuba diving, and playing card, video, and board games.
Lab Manager
Jocelyn Bransford
I am a biologist interested in the intersection of neuroscience and computation. My previous work has focused on studying Drosophila neurophysiology while building tools for image analysis and data handling, primarily using python and FIJI. I enjoy combining experimental and computational approaches to explore how nervous systems function.
In my early twenties I pursued a degree in Painting from the Savannah College of Art and Design, where I was reminded quickly that STEM is my real passion! Skip a few years, and now I’m doing what I love, looking to start pursuing a PhD in the Spring of 2026.
I have a cat, a dog, a life partner of 10 years (Going on 11), and I also enjoy playing card, video, and board games. I also have a large collection of insects, and enjoy eating when I remember to.
Researcher
Shania Sikes
I graduated from MTSU in December 2025 with a degree in Allied Health Science, where I became really interested in anatomy, physiology, immunology, and how different biological systems work together to influence health. Before joining the lab, I worked as a medical assistant in a cardiology office, which gave me valuable hands-on experience and confirmed my long-term goal of going to medical school, with particular interests in cardiology and emergency medicine. I am also in the process of becoming an EMT to support my medical school goals, and I am very excited about this next step.
Outside of academics, I enjoy singing, dancing, reading, and keeping up with different TV series. I am a big fan of Marvel and superhero movies and can talk about them for hours. When I am not doing that, I enjoy spending time with friends and family and finding small new things to learn or try. I am excited to be part of the lab and continue growing as a student and future healthcare professional