Kristina M. Wright, PhD
About Kristina M. Wright, PhD
Kristina M. Wright, PhD, is a Biopharma Associate in the Healthcare Practice at Spencer Stuart in Boston, Massachusetts. With a strong background in behavioral neuroscience, she has experience in data analysis, neurophysiology, and has held various academic and professional roles in the field.
Work at Spencer Stuart
Kristina M. Wright, PhD, serves as a Biopharma Associate in the Healthcare Practice at Spencer Stuart. She has been with the firm since 2021, contributing her expertise in biopharma and healthcare from the Boston, Massachusetts office. In this role, she utilizes her background in neuroscience and data analysis to support the firm's initiatives in the biopharmaceutical sector.
Previous Experience in Academia
Prior to her current position, Wright worked at Boston University School of Social Work as a Human Neuropsychology Lecturer from 2017 to 2022. Her academic career also includes a tenure at Boston College, where she held multiple roles including Behavioral Neuroscience PhD candidate and Research Technician. During her time at Boston College, she contributed to the understanding of neurophysiological mechanisms and taught courses related to her field.
Education and Academic Background
Wright earned her PhD in Behavioral Neuroscience from Boston College, where she also completed her MA in the same field. She holds a cum laude BS in Psychology from Boston College. Her educational background provided her with a strong foundation in behavioral neuroscience, enabling her to engage in advanced research and teaching.
Research Contributions and Skills
Wright has developed a new microcircuit model to explain the role of the caudal ventrolateral periaqueductal gray (vlPAG) in initiating fear responses. She has challenged existing theories regarding the vlPAG's function, demonstrating its complexity through innovative research tools. Her skills include data analysis and visualization, in vivo electrophysiology, optogenetics, and microscopy.
Professional Experience in Dance
In addition to her scientific career, Wright has experience as a Professional Contemporary Dancer with Urbanity Dance from 2010 to 2012. This experience in the performing arts complements her scientific endeavors, showcasing her diverse skill set and ability to thrive in dynamic environments.