Cole Petersen, BA

Clinical Research Coordinator

Cole Petersen, BA, joined the Developing Brain Institute (DBI) in July 2023 as a Clinical Research Coordinator for the Mommy&Me and fetal neurodevelopment teams. Originally from rural Colorado, Cole graduated from Harvard University where he studied Neuroscience with a minor in environmental science and public policy. While in college, he studied genetic interventions for rare pediatric neurodegenerative diseases at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and later completed a senior thesis at Massachusetts General Hospital in which he targeted the stress response of glioma stem cells to improve treatment efficacy in pediatric and adult Glioblastoma Multiforme, an aggressive brain tumor. Cole also worked on several clinical research studies at McLean Hospital, a psychiatric hospital, focused on improving treatment for major depressive disorder and increasing access to care for underserved populations in Boston. Cole’s previous experiences working with patients as well as within research settings developed his passion for improving healthcare equity while spurring a deep appreciation for the intersection of medicine and the environment. He greatly enjoys volunteering for youth homeless shelters, senior patient-care facilities and a variety of environmental causes. Cole is so excited to be working with clinicians and other DBI researchers, parents and children to support the mission of improving fetal and newborn brain development, children’s long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes and maternal mental health.