Each year, we recruit a new cohort of U-RISE Fellows during their Junior year. Below you can see each cohort and learn a little about them.
Junior COHORT:
Sophia LaPorta
Mentor: Dr. David Salas-de la Cruz
About: My research in Dr. Salas’ lab involves studying the properties of cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) when it is modified with ionic liquids and agarose for different amounts of time, improving the material’s usage in other fields, and increasing our understanding of the material. My research career goals include being accepted into a PhD program and eventually working in the material research field with an aim of improving a material’s strength and durability under fire conditions. Outside of research, I am a volunteer firefighter and part of the RUC Women’s Volleyball team and the Indoor/Outdoor Women’s Track and Field team.
Angel Keifner
Mentor: Dr. Maria De La Encarnacion Solesio Torregrosa
About: I am involved in research regarding the effects of inorganic polyphosphate on the mitochondrial physiology. Currently I am working with a polyphosphate model to test the effects of long chain polyP. My research career goals are to publish my own paper, and refine my research skills and techniques. What is unique about me is that I have strong drive to complete goals that I set for myself.
Flynn Semenuk
Mentor: Dr. Eric Klein
About: I am currently involved with researching bacteria cells in Dr. Klein’s Lab. My research career goals are to find better ways to treat diseases in people, so would want to help conduct more research in the medical field to help those in need. What is unique about myself is that I am always eager to dive deep and learn as much as I can about a research project and will stay positive even when the research ends up in a rough patch. I always try to push through these rough patches because there’s always more information to be gained whether the research results are exactly what you wanted or the complete opposite..
Renuka Kumar
Mentor: Dr. Brian Corbett
About: I am currently conducting research in the Corbett lab, focusing on developing novel treatments for stress-related disorders like depression and anxiety. My research investigates the role of the sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor 3 (S1PR3) in promoting resilience to stress by reducing inflammation and its effects on neuron activity in the hippocampus. My career goal is to uncover new mechanisms and treatments for mental health disorders. What makes me unique is my commitment to translating complex scientific findings into practical therapies that can improve lives.
Senior COHORT:
Alexangel Nunez
Mentor: Dr. Anthony Geneva
About: Currently the research I am a part of is investigating the evolutionary origins of Adenovirus (AdV) within a novel lineage that affects Anolis lizards. More specifically, I am investigating AdV within an invasive population of Anolis equestris (Cuban Knight Anoles) from Miami, Florida. In the future I hope to utilize the bioinformatics and genetic skills gained from my lab and education, and put it towards a Ph.D. in Evolutionary Biology. Outside of education and research, I enjoy hiking, traveling, and trying and cooking new foods!
Leana Salgado
Mentor: Dr. David Salas-de la Cruz
About: My research in Dr. Salas’ lab involves creating cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) from cellulose and changing the structure of CNC to expand their usage in other fields because of its renewability and biocompatibility. Ionic liquids and different polymers will be used to modify the structure of CNC and therefore enhance its physical and chemical properties. In the future I plan to be accepted into a PhD program and then work in the pharmaceutical field. Ever since I was younger, I have always held high standards for myself by setting goals to further my education to obtain the most advanced degree.
Isabel Garcia
Mentor: Dr. Brian Corbett
About: I am currently in Dr. Corbett’s working on the effects of stress on the brain and the rest of the nervous system as well as how this stress manifests differently between sexes. My career goals are to learn as many techniques as I can in this program and eventually enter a PhD program. Outside of doing research, I enjoy reading, thrifting, and have recently taken an interest in gardening.
Jenna Brodnyan
Mentor: Dr. Angélica González
About: I am a rising senior in the González ecology lab studying population genetics and the genetic structure of solpugids from the Atacama Desert, Chile. I aspire to obtain a PhD in a biological field where I can best study the mechanisms which create and maintain biodiversity. With a strong awareness of the power of knowledge, I hope to communicate science to a general audience and be involved in decisions of policy. What sets me apart is my love for animals (both domestic and wild), as well as my affinity for hiking, reading, writing, gardening, and horseback riding.