PhD Candidate Lauren Otsuka Receives Estée Lauder Epigenetics Fellowship

Lauren Otsuka, a PhD candidate in the UC Irvine School of Medicine, was awarded the 2025 Estée Lauder Epigenetics Fellowship in honor of Paolo Sassone-Corsi, PhD. The $30,000 fellowship, which honors the late director of the Center for Epigenetics and Metabolism, supports doctoral students performing groundbreaking research in epigenetics and the molecular mechanisms underlying human disorders and diseases.

Working with Emiliana Borrelli, PhD, a professor of microbiology and molecular genetics, Otsuka is studying the genetic, epigenetic and metabolic mechanisms that contribute to psychiatric disorders. In particular, Otsuka is exploring how glial cells regulate rewards in response to changes in dopamine signaling.

“She has made major advances in elucidating how dopamine, acting through the D2 receptor, controls neuronal and glial functions across three distinct brain regions,” says Borrelli. “Lauren approaches genetic, biochemical and behavioral studies with the rigor and insight of an experienced researcher, always seeking the most meaningful way to answer important questions. I am confident she will have a brilliant scientific career.”

Otsuka was honored to receive the fellowship. “I am grateful to Estée Lauder for supporting my graduate research,” she shared on LinkedIn, “and am excited for the opportunity to represent UC Irvine, the Borrelli Lab and our shared dedication to bridging the gap between molecular biology and mental health science.”