Dr. Bristi Poudel is an Assistant Professor at Ponce Health Sciences University, School of Medicine. Originally from Nepal, she earned her master’s in biotechnology from South Asian University in New Delhi, India. She completed her Ph.D. in Molecular, Cellular, and Systemic Physiology at Southern Illinois University School of Medicine in 2024 and subsequently pursued a six-month postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Missouri, Columbia.

Dr. Poudel’s research focuses on the neurobiological mechanisms underlying chemotherapy-induced cognitive impairment (“chemo-brain”) and the therapeutic potential of cannabidiol (CBD) as a neuroprotective agent. Her work integrates behavioral neuroscience with molecular and cellular techniques to examine how chemotherapy affects brain function and mental health, with translational implications for improving the quality of life of cancer survivors.

In addition to her research, Dr. Poudel has extensive teaching and mentoring experience across undergraduate, graduate, and medical education. She is committed to fostering inclusive and engaging learning environments and actively supports student success through mentorship, particularly for those interested in research. She is also engaged in campus activities that promote student development and academic growth. Her work has been recognized with multiple awards, including top poster and presentation honors, as well as competitive research and travel grants. Outside of her professional work, she enjoys traveling and dancing.