Who We Are
Brian Sims, M.D., Ph.D.
My primary research interest is in exosome biology and mechanisms involved in neuroprotection. In my laboratory, we intend to understand and describe intrinsic defense mechanisms in the brain that can be manipulated leading to neuroprotection. These studies have led to research which examines the role of multiple pathways describing novel neuroprotective strategies. One of my primary roles as a Physician Scientist is to help develop younger trainees. I am involved heavily in training many students on various levels with an emphasis on helping students from diverse backgrounds. I have demonstrated a sincere interest in increasing diversity in the academic setting. I am a co-Investigator and Co-Director of the UAB Roadmap Scholars Program in Neuroscience an NIH R25 designed to increase diversity of neuroscience trainees. I am also PI for the UAB Paradigm Program which is an NIH R25 with the intent to increase the numbers of minority students in medicine and graduate school.
Dasi Price, EdS
Dasi R. Price is the Director of Student Experiences for the HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology. As a member of the Educational Outreach team, Dasi develops and teaches genomics and biotechnology content to students, teachers, and the public at large. She has a particular passion and emphasis on increasing the learning experiences and opportunities through student-focused programs.
Prior to joining the Institute, she served as an adjunct professor and a classroom teacher. As an educator and leader in one of Alabama’s largest districts, she increased participation in Advanced Placement (AP) classes and recruited more than 1,000 students to attend Birmingham City Schools' academic magnet school. As department chair, she led improvements in instructional practice and pedagogy leading to dramatic increases in students receiving qualifying AP scores, from 2% to more than 40%. She often mentored students pursuing science careers, serving as an advisor for students in the Alabama Junior Academy of Science Gorgas Scholarship program.
Dasi earned her Educational Specialist (Ed.S.) degree in Secondary Curriculum-Biology from the University of Alabama-Birmingham. Her thesis was on teacher professionalism.
Dasi has served on numerous state education committees, as well as civic and community boards. She has led professional development sessions at the local, district, state and national level. She is active on numerous science boards and committees. Her passion is addressing the critical issues in access and equity across the state.
