DeMaris earned a B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Natural Composite Science from East Carolina University. She is currently pursuing her M.S. in Neuroscience and Education at Teachers College, Columbia University. Following her undergraduate studies, DeMaris began her career in child welfare services as an interventionist and case planner, where she developed a strong commitment to supporting underserved youth and families in urban communities. Her experience includes working as an ABA instructor with youth on the autism spectrum and serving as a case manager for children in foster care.
DeMaris is particularly passionate about studying the physiological effects of early adversity on brain development and is dedicated to exploring evidence-based rehabilitation methods. Her research interests also include neurogenetics in relation to stress and trauma, increasing public access to scientific knowledge through effective communication, and investigating EEG methodologies and the impact of systemic racism within the field of neuroscience.