Dr. Melissa Holmes

Professor, Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences

Associate Chair, Research + Graduate

University of Toronto Mississauga

I love watching animals do amazing things. My career has largely focused on understanding how they have evolved to solve “problems” in unique ways. Outside of work, I enjoy having zero presence on social media. 🙂

Joaquin Alfonso Yotingco San Agustin

I am a PhD student in the Holmes Lab. After completing my undergrad at UTM back in 2023, I figured – why not stick around a little longer? My current research focuses on how the social environment shapes neural gene expression patterns and behavioural outcomes in the naked mole-rat. Outside of work, I enjoy playing video games, hitting the gym, trying new places to eat, and busting out some karaoke!

Gianna Perugini

I am a 2nd year PhD student in the lab. I earned my Bachelor of Science in psychology from Canisius University, with minors in animal behaviour and neuropsychology. My current doctoral research focuses on the dopaminergic modulation of behaviour in naked mole-rats, with the broader goal of understanding how neuroendocrine systems shape motivation, social behavior, and decision-making. I am also particularly passionate about ethical considerations in research and pharmacology. Outside of the lab, I can be found reading, hiking, or rowing! 

Julia Mazur

I am a graduate student in Dr. Holmes’ lab studying the intersection between stress and puberty in naked mole rats. More specifically, I am interested in characterizing the expression of stress- and reproduction-related genes during the pubertal period in both males and females. 

Merna Baythoun

I am a fourth-year student specializing in Molecular Biology with a minor in Chemistry. I joined the Holmes lab as an ROP student and am interested in learning more about epigenetics! Outside the lab, I enjoy binge-watching Turkish Tv-shows and spending time with my family!

Brennan Carr

I am a fourth-year student specializing in Psychology with a minor in Biology. I am a research assistant in the Holmes lab and have worked closely with Gianna investigating dopaminergic modulation of behaviour in naked mole-rats. Outside of the lab I like good people, good tunes, and good food; especially when combined.

Tara Veletic

I am a fourth year Neuroscience and Biology student at UTM, that is mainly interested in the genetic mechanisms that underlie behaviour, psychiatric genetics, or even neurodegenerative disorders. On a typical day you’d find me listening to heavy metal or re-watching the Amazing Spiderman movie!

Ravneet Kalsi

I am a Neuroscience specialist at UTM. As a current ROP student, I am excited to study the unique model of naked mole-rats. In my free time, I enjoy embroidery and going on walks.

Nick Li

I graduated from UTM in 2026 with a BSc in Biology, specializing in Comparative Physiology. I am currently a Research Assistant in the Holmes Lab, where I work with Xinye to investigate how age and queen reproductive status affect Perineuronal Nets and the development of aggression in naked mole-rats. My research interests focus on neurobehavior, particularly how neural circuits and physiological changes influence animal behavior. Outside the lab, I enjoy playing tennis, playing video games, and traveling.

Hamza Faiyaz-Ul-Haque

I am a fourth-year undergraduate student studying Biology for Health Sciences and Psychology. My research interests include oligodendrocyte and myelin-associated plasticity, pubertal onset, and the molecular mechanisms underlying physiological changes in naked mole-rats. Outside of research, my interests include health promotion, improving patient experiences, and human rights advocacy. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with friends and expressing my creativity through music production, fashion design, and modelling.