Our Team
The UCI Center for Aging Research in Down Syndrome(CFAR-DS) is made up of renowned researchers, caring administrative staff, and community volunteers who carry out our mission.
Key Personnel
Claire Ghazal Nelson, MSG
Center Administrator, CFAR-DS
Claire Nelson is a UC Irvine alumna, graduating with a bachelor’s degree in Urban Studies. In 2021, Claire returned to UCI to work at the UCI Alzheimer Disease Research Center, and then joined CFAR-DS in the summer of 2022. In her role, she serves as the center administrator, managing the operations of the CFAR-DS, and executive assistant to Co-Director Dr. Elizabeth Head. In 2024, Claire earned a master’s degree in Gerontology from the University of Massachusetts, Boston. She enjoys spending time with her husband, son, and two fur babies.
Annette Oh, CRA
Contract and Grant Manager, CFAR-DS
Annette Oh is a Contract and Grant Manager in the Department of Pathology, where the Center for Aging Research in Down Syndrome is located. She received her bachelor’s degree in Accounting from California State University, Los Angeles College of Business and Economics. Before joining UCI, Annette worked at UCLA for 12 years, most recently as Sr. fund manager in the Orthopaedic Surgery department. She has a son and a fur baby and loves to hike with them.
Erika Lopez-Chung
Contract and Grant Administrator, CFAR-DS
Erika Lopez-Chung is a Contract and Grant Administrator for the Center for Aging Research in Down Syndrome. She comes to us from Western University of Health Sciences, where she spent several years managing the operational and administrative duties for the College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific and the College of Podiatric Medicine. As a UC Irvine alumna, Erika is delighted to return to her alma mater and contribute to this remarkable and groundbreaking research. When she isn’t working, she enjoys traveling, hiking, and spending time with family and friends.
Pat Sommer
Administrative Officer, CFAR-DS
Pat Sommer attended UCI and joined the Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine in 2018. As an Administrative Officer for the Center for Aging Research in Down Syndrome, Pat co-manages the Center’s operations, and delights in the opportunity to work with the Center’s team in support of its vital mission and continued growth. Pat is executive assistant to Center Co-Director Dr. Mark Mapstone. An avid hiker and outdoors lover, she also enjoys relaxing with a good book and her pup, Finn.
UCI School of Medicine
Contact
cfar-ds@uci.edu
837 Health Sciences Rd Irvine CA 92697-4541
