Shannon Renee Odoi
Shannon has been a STEM Content Contributor at Research Girl since February 2025.
About
Pronouns: she/her
Languages: English
Biographical Sketch:
Shannon-Renee Odoi has been fascinated by the intersection of neuroscience and psychology since high school, where she first explored how the brain shapes human behavior. Drawn to the complexity of cognition and neurological disorders, she is especially interested in stroke rehabilitation, neuroplasticity, and the ways in which social and biological factors interact to influence health outcomes.
She began her academic journey at The University of Texas at Dallas, where she is currently a senior majoring in Neuroscience and Psychology with a minor in Business Administration. Her passion for research led her to work in multiple labs, including one using MRI technology to study human brain function and another focused on stroke rehabilitation using rat models.
Beyond the lab, she is deeply involved in advocacy and leadership. As the Vice President of UTD SIT, she plays a key role in training service dogs in partnership with Canine Companions. She is also the Marketing Director for PIH Engage on her campus, using her organizational and strategic skills to promote global health equity initiatives. Additionally, she is a mentor through the Research Girl program, guiding aspiring young scientists, and a dedicated member of AMWA.
Her experiences across research, leadership, and service have strengthened her desire to bridge the gap between neuroscience, psychology, and patient-centered care. She hopes to pursue a career where she can contribute to both scientific discovery and real-world health solutions, particularly in rehabilitation and neurological disorders. Whether through research, advocacy, or mentorship, she is committed to making science more accessible and impactful for the communities she serves.
Awards and Honors:
Summer Platform for Undergraduate Research UTD Winner 2023 & 2024