Research Team

Lin Hung, PhD

Lin completed her BSc (Hons) and PhD in enteric neurophysiology from the University of Melbourne in Australia. She joined the Margolis Lab in 2019. Her research focus is the multifaceted roles of serotonin in disorders of the gut-brain axis, where serotonin has the potential to be pathophysiological and therapeutic. In her spare time, Lin enjoys traveling and exploring new places, and she hopes to visit many cities and states during her time in the US.

Sarah Najjar, PhD

Sarah is a postdoctoral researcher in the Margolis Lab. She received a BS in biology from the University of Central Florida (2013) and a PhD in neuroscience from the University of Pittsburgh (2020). Sarah completed her dissertation research on the role of the colon epithelium in visceral nociception and gut motility. She is currently studying how epithelial serotonin influences the visceral hypersensitivity associated with gut-brain disorders. Outside the lab, Sarah enjoys reading, playing music, and trying out new vegan recipes.

Zixing Huang, MS

Zixing received her bachelor’s degree in business administration at Fordham University (18’) and master's degree in human nutrition at Columbia University (20’). She joined the Margolis Lab in 2020. She enjoys playing musical instruments, hiking, and practicing pilates in her free time. 

Yan (Ashley) Tong, MS

Yan (Ashley) Tong received her master’s degree in biotechnology from New York University (21’). She joined the Margolis Lab in 2021. During her spare time, Ashley enjoys watching animation, playing board games with friends, and trying delicious foods. 

Andrew Del Colle, MS

Andrew received a BA in economics from the University of North Florida (‘15) and completed his master's degree in Human Nutrition from Columbia University in Dr. Margolis’ laboratory. He is currently a medical student. In his free time, Andrew enjoys basketball, cycling, and going to the movies.