Student Spotlight: Parker Kotlarz

Name: Parker Kotlarz

Lab: Nino Research Group

Hometown: Pensacola, FL

Research focus: My research focuses on identifying biomarkers in Alzheimer’s disease using connectomics, percolation theory, and artificial intelligence. My goal is to create a point-of-care algorithm to predict the likelihood of developing Alzheimer’s disease using fMRI.

Fun fact: I love movies, and I write screenplays in my spare time.

What motivates you? My motivation stems from the ability to combine my passion for medicine with engineering. I strive to be at the forefront of medical technology and use it to study the brain.

What attracted you to UF BME? I like how UF BME is a huge supporter of their students. UF BME supports students in conducting research, bonding with their professors through social events, honoring students with excellence awards, and constantly spotlighting students for their achievements.

What I love about Gainesville: I love all that there is to do in Gainesville. From sporting events to great restaurants to playing pool downtown, I can always find something to do with my friends.

Motivational Quote: “Be a leader, not a follower”

Honors and Awards:

  • IEEE-USA Excellence in Engineering at Posters on the Hill
  • Attributes of a Gator Engineer Award: Professional Excellence
  • Outstanding Gator Engineering 4 Year Scholar
  • Commencement Student Speaker
  • University of Florida Outstanding Scholar
  • RICE360 Global Health Technology Challenge: Semi-finalist
  • UF Global Health Case Competition: 2nd Place
  • UF BME Undergraduate Excellence Award
  • Tau Beta Pi Scholarship
  • John & Mittie Collins Engineering Scholarship
  • Future of Florida Summit on Healthcare Policy: 2nd Place
  • Yale CBIT Healthcare Hackathon Finalist
  • Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering University Scholar
  • UF BME Art of Research Award: 3rd Place