Donn Van Deren is a postdoctoral researcher studying the role of the immune system of the brain in neuropsychiatric disorders, specifically chronic anxiety and trichotillomania, at the University of Utah School of Medicine under the mentorship of Dr. Mario R. Capecchi (Nobel Laureate, 2007). He obtained his Ph.D. at the University of Utah School of Medicine. Since he grew up in the military lifestyle, he is a scientist with military-derived core values. For example, he likes his house to be clean and tidy! His extracurricular activities include, but are not limited to, fitness, hiking (it's Utah!), and traveling.