Nicholas is majoring in Molecular, Cell, and Developmental Biology with a minor in Biomedical Research. He enjoys studying the complex relationship and the artistic interchange between the many components of developmental pathways. At UCLA, he conducts research in developmental biology at the Lyons Lab, where he studies the progression of osteoarthritis, including both the molecular and behavioral components of the disease. Nicholas is focusing on exploring the relationship between the transforming growth factor beta (TGFb), and bone morphogenic protein (BMP) pathway as it relates to the phenotypes associated with osteoarthritis. After his undergraduate studies at UCLA, he plans to pursue an MD degree and continue research, as it is the foundation for developing treatments in medicine. He is a youth competitive swim coach for the UCLA Bruin Swim Club, and in his free time, swims with UCLA Masters Swim. His additional interests include art, in particular drawing and sewing.