Goulopoulou Lab Team

Principal Investigator and Lab Director
Associate Professor, Lawrence D. Longo, MD Center for Perinatal Biology

Dr. Stella Goulopoulou is a vascular physiologist whose research explores how the maternal cardiovascular system adapts during pregnancy and why these adaptations fail in complications such as preeclampsia. Her laboratory investigates vascular function, mitochondrial stress signaling, and inflammation to uncover mechanisms that promote healthy pregnancy and improve women's cardiovascular health across the lifespan. As a first-generation college graduate and strong advocate for equity in science, she is committed to fostering an inclusive, collaborative, and supportive environment where all trainees can thrive. She enjoys reading and writing, cooking, traveling, practicing yoga and meditation, and spending time with her husband and their three dogs, Esther, Ophelia, and Pisgah.

Postdoctoral Fellow

Dr. Nataliia Hula investigates how sterile inflammation during pregnancy contributes to maternal cardiovascular complications during pregnancy and postpartum. Her research project is funded by the American Heart Association. Nataliia received her PhD in Physiology from the University of Alberta, studying the impact of prenatal hypoxia on cardiac and vascular function. Outside the lab, she enjoys pilates, swimming, and cycling.

PhD Candidate

Desirae studies how mitochondrial dynamics regulate uterine artery reactivity and blood flow during pregnancy. She is funded by the Loma Linda University Deans Stipend Scholarship. Desirae earned her bachelor’s degree in biomedical science from California Baptist University. She enjoys hiking in nature preserves, spending time with family, and listening to music.