Fischell Institute Black History Month Spotlight: Loryn Johnson

Loryn Johnson is a second-year neuroscience Ph.D. student and a member of Fischell Institute Affiliate Fellow Miroslaw Janowski’s lab at the University of Maryland, Baltimore.

Johnson’s inspiration to study neuroscience comes from her grandmother, who has struggled with relapsing multiple sclerosis (MS) for more than 20 years. Her grandmother’s diagnosis led to the rapid deterioration of her speech, motor function, and cognitive abilities.

“Watching my grandmother's quality of life dwindle drove my desire to improve health rights for vulnerable populations and piqued my interest in neuroimmunology,” Johnson said. “While attending the Rochester Institute of Technology for undergrad, I learned ways in which the brain mediates behavior, emotion and cognition through the study of biopsychology. Motivated by my grandmother's story, I aimed to research the diagnosis and treatment of neurodegenerative disorders while earning a doctorate in neuroscience.”

One of her long-term goals is to establish a therapeutics company focused on improving health care access for vulnerable populations. Janowski’s research on therapeutic delivery to the brain, in combination with his expertise in patent filing and translational research, made his lab the perfect place for Johnson to develop the skills necessary to turn that vision into reality. She joined the lab in May 2024.

“Dr. Janowski has been incredibly supportive, especially of my interest in innovation and entrepreneurship,” Johnson said. “His encouragement led me to UM Ventures’ President’s Entrepreneurial Fellowship, where I’m gaining valuable insights into the biotech industry. Without his mentorship, I wouldn’t have had this opportunity, and I’m grateful to be part of such a dynamic and forward-thinking research group.”

Johnson's research focuses on understanding the relationship between the structure and function of nanobodies, with the goal of enhancing current diagnostic imaging techniques.

“What excites me the most about this work is the potential to reduce health inequities,” she said. “Science isn’t just about discovery—it’s about impact. If we can improve the way we diagnose and treat diseases of the central nervous system, we’re giving people a chance at a better quality of life. That’s what keeps me going.”

Outside of the lab, Johnson enjoys trying new things through workshops at the Enoch Pratt Free Library. Since moving to Baltimore, she has learned about beekeeping, coffee roasting and Ethiopian cuisine from a local chef. She also loves music and attending concerts in the area.

Published February 27, 2025