The science behind smell

Meet Edgar Orellana Reyes and Abbie Deeth (aka Gail)—a research duo at Macalester who prove that high-level science is better with a “bestie” by your side. The two worked in the lab of Professor Michelle Tong, Neuroscience, through Macalester’s Collaborative Summer Research Grant.

While they’ve been “locked at the hip” since they met, they bring two very different (but complementary) vibes to the lab:

• Edgar: One of the most cool and collected scientists you’ll meet.
• Abbie (Gail): A high-energy optimist who keeps the lab’s spirit high.

What are they studying? The team is diving deep into the world of perineuronal nets. These are specialized structures that extend around neurons. Specifically, they are investigating how these nets affect our ability to smell and discriminate between different scents.

As Deeth puts it, she’s learned to take a step back and accept that the results will be what they’re going to be. Between mounting slices onto slides and peering through microscopes, these two are having the time of their lives. In their words: “We should be celebrities.”