Epilepsy does not announce itself politely—it strikes without warning, stealing control and consciousness. Epilepsy is caused by unpredictable electrical surges in the brain that result in seizures, and it impacts millions of people around the world. In the College of Life Sciences, Professor Ryley Parrish and his team of student researchers are aiming to find solutions to this neurological disease.
Parrish has witnessed both family members and students struggle with epilepsy. “I had a niece who had her first seizure while swimming in a pool,” he reflects solemnly. “That’s what drove me to study epilepsy and spreading depolarizations.”
In the Parrish Lab, they study how the brain stops seizures and what causes some seizures to become dangerous and prolonged. Their main focus is to understand more about the brain’s inhibitory mechanisms that naturally stop seizures so they can discover new ways to prevent them. This led them to explore and analyze spreading depolarizations, which have been found to either trigger or stop seizures. “The mechanisms behind spreading depolarizations are still unknown, so it’s fun exploring that and seeing how it’s related,” shares Preston Withers (NEURO ’26).
The lab also studies status epilepticus, a long-lasting seizure that is hard to treat and can be life-threatening. Using advanced recording tools, the students are learning why this kind of seizure becomes resistant to medicine and how it spreads through the brain.
In the lab, Parrish is quick to celebrate his students, pointing out that they are the ones who truly have the greatest impact on the work. He is committed to providing an inclusive and supportive environment where students feel comfortable taking the lead on new projects. He also gives them chances to teach, collaborate on research articles, and attend conferences. “I like how Dr. Parrish runs his lab because it allows you to get lots of opportunities,” explains Melissa Blotter (PhD ’27, CELL). “If you show up and work hard, then he's going to reward you with new opportunities.”
Students in the Parrish Lab don't just grow academically. They grow spiritually as well. “Research is hard; nothing ever seems to work. But faith teaches us that sometimes you can believe in something that you may not always see. You’ve got to keep going, keep trying, and keep believing that it will work,” Blotter reflects.
For those interested in learning more about the Parrish Lab, additional information is available here.
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A student would be a good fit for this lab if they:
- Are interested in seizure disorders and willing to work hard.
- Aren’t afraid to make mistakes.
- Are willing to participate in hands-on experiences.
- How to design, conduct, and analyze experiments.
- How to present at scientific conferences.
- How to write articles for peer-reviewed journals.
- How to write grant proposals.