Exploring the World Through Science: Mira Umarova’s Research Journey

From studying ants in the field to advancing neurobiology, UofM undergraduate researcher finds her path in discovery

For University of Memphis student Mira Umarova, her passion for science began with ants. 

“I would watch their colonies for hours, fascinated by their organization and communication,” she recalls. That childhood curiosity has grown into a full-fledged research career — one that has already taken her from fieldwork in the forests of upstate New York to her first scientific publication as an undergraduate. 

After connecting with Dr. Philip Kohlmeier in the Department of Biological Sciences, Mira joined him for a summer research trip studying social insects. The experience confirmed her love for hands-on fieldwork and fueled a deeper interest in biology. Since then, she has explored a range of projects, from cold adaptation in fruit flies to chemical communication in insects, ultimately earning co-authorship on her first paper. 

As a member of the Helen Hardin Honors College, Mira has leveraged fellowships and conference travel to present her work nationally and connect with other young scientists. “The support system here is incredible,” she says. “It’s given me the confidence to see myself as part of the scientific community.” 

Now in her final year, Mira is pursuing research in neurobiology with Dr. David Freeman, chair of Biological Sciences, focusing on aggression studies with implications for neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Her goal: to contribute to discoveries that could make a lasting difference in human health. 

From her early days in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, to her research successes at the University of Memphis, Mira’s journey reflects the opportunities and impact of student research. “Wherever my career takes me, I know I’ll carry the lessons I’ve learned here — and my love for biology — with me. I’m proud to call Memphis home and prouder still to always be a Tiger.” 

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