Fischell Institute Spotlight: Kaitlyn Ro

Kaitlyn Ro, a senior studying bioengineering at the University of Maryland, is an intern in Fischell Institute Fellow and Institute for Bioscience and Biotechnology Research (IBBR) Affiliate Research Professor Greg Payne’s lab, investigating a potential treatment for schizophrenia symptoms. She joined the lab in 2025 through the Fischell Institute’s Summer Research Internship Program and has interned there since.

This past summer, Ro worked alongside Assistant Research Professor Eunkyoung Kim to analyze results from a collaborative clinical study investigating whether luteolin, a naturally occurring compound with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, could help improve symptoms of schizophrenia.

Growing evidence suggests that oxidative stress and inflammation, two biological processes that can affect how the body and brain function, may contribute to schizophrenia symptoms.

To better understand this connection, researchers at the Maryland Psychiatric Research Center (MPRC) and the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) conducted a randomized clinical trial. Participants were given either luteolin or a placebo, allowing researchers to compare the treatment’s effects to determine whether reductions in oxidative stress and inflammation were associated with improvements in negative symptoms of schizophrenia, such as reduced motivation and social withdrawal, as well as cognitive difficulties involving memory, attention and decision-making. Ro's role involved analyzing the serum samples collected during the study to assess changes in biological markers associated with oxidative stress and inflammation.

“It’s exciting to see the results and analyze them in real time, knowing that the information gained from this project could contribute to real solutions for symptoms of schizophrenia,” Ro said. “I learned a lot about the research process and oxidative stress last year, and expanded my knowledge and skill set this summer.”

By exploring the relationship between these biological markers and schizophrenia symptoms, the study could help the team better understand the mental health disorder and identify potential approaches to improving treatment and patient quality of life.

Ro’s interest in engineering grew naturally from a lifelong curiosity about science and problem-solving.

“I have always been STEM-oriented, and math was always my favorite subject,” she said. “I love logic puzzles and have always been curious about how things work. I enjoy finding solutions to problems I encounter and persevering through setbacks to achieve my goals.”

After graduation, Ro hopes to earn a master's degree and pursue a career in the biopharmaceutical or biotechnology industry.

Outside of the lab, Ro enjoys staying active by working out and playing tennis. In September, she completed a half marathon. She also enjoys spending time with family and friends, solving The New York Times crossword, crocheting, and watching TV.

Published November 12, 2026