Alex Leake, M.S., B.S.
Graduate Student Researcher
Contact Info
-
4001 E Fletcher Ave
MDC 36
Tampa FL 33613 - Academic Email: aleake@usf.edu
- View My C.V.
Education
- M.S., Molecular Medicine, University of South Florida, 2022
- B.S., Biology: Pre-Medicine, Southeastern University, 2020
Biography
Alex R. Leake is a Ph.D. student in Neuroscience at the University of South Florida’s Morsani College of Medicine. With a background in biology, molecular medicine, and neuroscience, Alex’s academic journey has been shaped by an early interest in biomedical research. From undergraduate research in chemistry and biochemistry to graduate work in neuroscience, Alex has developed expertise in addiction and circadian biology. Beyond research, Alex is actively involved in mentorship, outreach, and teaching, contributing to the scientific community through programs like RELATE-A-BULL and Skype a Scientist. As a former collegiate athlete and peer tutor, Alex values teamwork, discipline, and education as integral aspects of both research and professional development.
Academic Philosophy
"Alex’s scientific philosophy is centered on mentorship, collaboration, and accessibility in research. As a researcher and educator, they believe that mentorship should meet students where they are, providing resources and guidance tailored to individual needs. Their approach to science values both rigor and inclusivity, ensuring that research is conducted with integrity and shared widely to benefit the broader community. Through outreach and teaching, Alex strives to inspire the next generation of scientists, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds, by making neuroscience approachable and engaging."
Interdisciplinary and Emerging Signature Programs
- Neuroscience
Research Interests
- Alex specializes in neuroscience, with a focus on addiction and circadian biology. Their research investigates how adolescent alcohol exposure and circadian disruption impact addiction vulnerability, using a combination of behavioral neuroscience, molecular biology, and computational approaches. In the Gulick-Gamsby Lab at the Byrd Alzheimer's Research Center, Alex utilizes rodent behavioral assays, EEG telemetry for sleep and circadian studies, proteomic analyses, and bioinformatics to uncover neurobiological mechanisms linking sleep, alcohol use, and addiction risk. Their work bridges preclinical models with translational applications, contributing to targeted interventions that mitigate addiction-related harm and improve long-term health outcomes.