Garrett Fogo

Garrett Fogo

My current project focuses on understanding the mechanisms of mitochondrial dynamics in cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury using novel imaging techniques and computational modeling.

Share the most exciting thing you enjoy about your research?

I enjoy the challenge of uncovering the mystery in the science. Research is like one big game of Clue. We are constantly probing the who, what, when, where, and why of biological and pathological processes. I love the innovation and strategy that goes into tacking the challenges of biomedical research.

What would you tell your high school self if you could go back in time?

Don't take life too seriously

What was your childhood dream?

I always wanted to be an inventor. I don't think I understood that "inventing" wasn't really a career path, but I think I'm in the right ballpark.

What appeals to you most, research or teaching? Why?

I'm going to cheat and say both. I love aspects of both research and teaching. I also don't think the two are mutually exclusive. For me, I believe experiential learning is the most effective method of teaching, so using research to teach would be my ideal answer here.

What person in your life was the strongest influence on you choosing your career path? Why?

My mother. She recently retired from teaching middle school science in public schools after 30 years! Growing up in my house, it was science class every day.

What’s your greatest life lesson?

This too shall pass

Why did you decide on University of Michigan?

My grandmother fought Parkinson's Disease throughout my whole life. When I was a teenager, she had her deep brain stimulation (DBS) surgery performed at the University of Michigan. DBS therapy dramatically improved her condition and extended her life. The doctors and researchers at the University of Michigan are heroes in my mind for that. So when it came to looking for graduate schools, UM was always at the top of the list. During interviews, I was blown away by the incredible people at UM and NGP.