Annie Sheikh '26

I became interested in psychopathology and specifically bipolar disorder through a friend who is diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder. I have watched her go through the ups and downs of the disease with no treatment plan being very effective. Having seen firsthand the limitations of current treatments, I am shocked at how little we understand about this illness and how to treat it. I have spent a lot of time researching current treatments for bipolar disorder as well the genetics behind the illness. In doing so, I’ve been able to meet with various doctors and scientists who have taught me so much about the research being done on all ends to help people with this illness. I hope to specifically better understand and research the connection between the mitochondria and how bipolar disorder develops in patients. I’m excited to do more research regarding this topic during the summer. 

I’m really passionate about my family, community, and academics. In addition to science research, I actively participate in my school community. I also do research regarding firearm safety and injury prevention at the University of Michigan with the hope of helping to make my community safer. I enjoy the combination of learning about both research and policy. I also love travel, sports, and literature.