Cindy is a passionate scholar, writer, and speaker with a love for American literature, particularly the works of Edgar Allan Poe, Herman Melville, and other literary giants. With a career that has taken her to conferences and research opportunities around the world—from Spain to Brazil to France—Cindy has dedicated her work to exploring the rich intersections of literature, memory, and the brain. Her research focuses on how literature shapes our understanding of time, empathy, and human experience.

Cindy is committed to understanding the human mind, especially in the context of Alzheimer's disease. Her book, written with Dr. Bruce Miller, Finding the Right Words: A Story of Literature, Grief, and the Brain, offers a heartfelt exploration of her personal experience with her father's early-onset Alzheimer's, blending literary analysis with neuroscience. The book has received critical acclaim, with a translation into Chinese (and Korean on the way), along with an audiobook version expanding its reach to even more readers.

Cindy's work has earned her prestigious fellowships, awards, and invitations to speak at renowned institutions. She has held leadership roles at the California Institute of Technology, where she fosters inclusive, dynamic academic communities. In addition to teaching and research, Cindy has organized impactful seminars and contributed to leading journals in her field.

Through her writing, research, and public engagement, Cindy strives to inspire others to recognize the profound impact literature can have on how we see the world and relate to one another. Whether contributing to scholarly discussions or engaging with broader audiences, Cindy strives to bridge the past and present, mind and heart.