Payton graduated in 2022 with a B.S. in Animal Sciences from the University of Illinois. He was first introduced to research his second year at the University, focusing on the complexities of glioblastoma (brain cancer). Shortly after, Payton began working in Steelman lab as an undergraduate research assistant. In the fall of 2022, he will be returning to UIUC and the Steelman laboratory for graduate studies in Animal Sciences. When he is not in the lab Payton enjoys playing soccer, practicing the ukulele, and working his other job at a doggy daycare.