Current Ambassadors

• addieb24@tamu.edu
• Organizations & Programs:

  Ecological Systems Laboratory, Texas A&M Women's Lacrosse, University Honors Program, Department of Biology Peer Mentor

• Activities:

  Amazon River Tropical Biology Field Research Trip, Computation Cancer Biology Training Program Research Internship, SSI Open Water Scuba Diver

• Awards & Distinctions:

  President's Endowed Scholar, Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Scholar, College of Science Dean's Honor Roll, Phi Eta Sigma Honor Society, Aggie Research Scholar

• Experience with: Summer Research Internship, Fall/Spring Semester Research, Local, State, and National Research Conferences, Poster and Oral Presentations, Manuscript Publication, Study Abroad Field Research

My name is Alexandra Bishop (but I go by Addie), and I am a junior biology major with minors in philosophy and bioinformatics from Kingwood, Texas. I have conducted research at Texas A&M in the Ecological Systems Laboratory under Dr. Rose Wang since my second semester of college. During this time, I have worked on multiple projects. The laboratory itself focuses on using systems analysis and simulation as an integral part of ecological research investigating the movement of invasive species and disease. Last spring, I worked on two invasive species projects, statistically monitoring the expansion of Japanese Honey Suckle and Chinese Tallow. This past semester, I worked on a project investigating the increasing incidence of Spotted Fever Rickettsiosis in the United States. Both the Chinese Tallow research project and the Spotted Fever Rickettsiosis project were part of the Aggie Research Scholars program.

My experience in research as an undergraduate has taught me that I want to strongly incorporate research into my future career. Through my lab and field experience, I have learned that I no longer want to attend medical school but would rather focus my entire career path on research. After earning my undergraduate degree, I want to attend a year-long master’s Program in Public Health focusing on Epidemiology and then later go on to my PhD. I love the idea of a non-linear career in which I can take advantage of opportunities as they arise, allowing me to travel, conduct research, teach, and possibly using my experience to transfer into other career fields down the line. My experience in research has opened my eyes to the incredible opportunities that could be part of my future.

• morganjames.chapman@tamu.edu
• Organizations & Programs: Corps of Cadets, American Medical Students Association, Cannon Lab, Langford Lab
• Activities: Ice hockey, rock climbing, bouldering, mountaineering, mountain biking, hiking, fishing (but not ice fishing), cross country skiing, downhill skiing, reading, photography, research, traveling.
• Awards & Distinctions: Fuller Scholar
• Experience with: Materials Science, Medicinal Chemistry, Microbiology, Genetics, animal trials, project design, bacterial efficacy trials, international medical experience, clinical research

When I am not busy in the lab or reading papers for my research projects, you might find me climbing, reading books, spending time with the Corps, studying, and every once in a while; sleeping. I currently spend most of my time involved with research in the Cannon lab where I am working on my dermal surgical suture, a project I recently started with the goal of reducing surgical site infections and improving comfort of wounds.
Being from Alaska, almost all of my hobbies involve being outside, whether it's sliding down an ice field with an ice axe, swimming in the glacial lakes, or skiing in 12 feet of snow, you can always find me enjoying the cold. Growing up outside and being constantly surrounded by nature were huge factors in my decision to pursue microbiology and genetics, but the biggest influence was my curiosity. I love to ask questions. In all of my notebooks for class, there is often more questions than there are actual notes. This desire to learn, for the sake of learning, is what inspired me to do research. When I come into the lab, I feel like a kid in a candy store, except instead of a lollipop and twizzlers, there's an 18,000 volt battery and blood agar, yum! 

I got involved in research my freshmen year where I started on a Nursing research project examining the use of different wavelengths of light for identifying deep tissue bruises. Since then I have become active in two more labs, the Cannon lab and the Langford lab. In the Cannon lab, I am currently working on an electrospun scaffold with analgesic and antibiotic capabilities. In the Langford lab, I am currently studying how a particular neurological virus is disrupting specific biochemical pathways leading to symptoms such as paralysis. While being at Texas A&M I have also had the opportunity to have a very interesting freshman year in the Corps, travel to Tanzania to be a medical volunteer and study tropical disease, travel to Australia to study economics, politics, government, and international relations, become an Undergraduate Research Ambassador, and even meet Ms. Rev a time or two. 

Currently I am pursuing two bachelor's degrees simultaneously in Genetics and Microbiology with the hopes of minoring in Bioinformatics and Mathematics. Upon graduation I am planning on pursuing entrance to an MD/PhD program where I can study cellular biology and develop more personalized medical treatments to patients based on their genetic background as well as developing a more fundamental understanding about the workings of the cell. 

• cole_16499@tamu.edu
• Organizations & Programs:

  Terry Foundation, ASPIRE Mentoring program,  Maroon and White Leadership Society, Tau Beta Pi, Engineering Honors

• Awards & Distinctions:

  Undergraduate Research Scholar, Undergraduate Leadership Scholar, Undergraduate Summer Research Grant,  Sigma Xi Interdisciplinary Award, Terry Foundation Traditional Scholar

• Experience with: Presented at the URS Symposium, Student Research Week, and RISE Conference; Internship Abroad; Summer Research

Howdy! I’m a junior civil engineering student from Laredo, TX. Since Spring 2018, I have been an undergraduate researcher for the Urban Resilience, Networks, and Informatics Lab under Dr. Mostafavi. Our research focuses on interdisciplinary solutions to mitigating the impacts of natural disasters. In combination with the Undergraduate Research Scholars (URS) program, I have examined the interaction between social factors and disruptions in critical infrastructure services caused by Hurricane Harvey. I will continue my research for Summer 2019 and in subsequent semesters. I hope my research contributions will help create communities on a local and global scale that are sustainable even against extreme circumstances. For Summer 2018, I was also an undergraduate researcher for the Pontificia Universidad Catolica (PUC) in Santiago, Chile though the A&M Global Engineering program. My research team was preparing resource assessment trips to the Strait of Magellan to measure the region’s tidal energy output. This experience allowed me to simultaneously learn about a rising engineering field and a different culture, and I highly recommend taking on an internship abroad if given the chance. I love working at my research labs and learning from the people around me. I have been able to bounce around different ideas and gain a holistic understanding of the research process. 

 

Besides research, I am a Chair Executive Officer for ASPIRE, which is a mentoring program for incoming freshmen students. I also write for two separate newsletters which include the Terry Student Organization and the Maroon & White Leadership Society. I also enjoy volunteering in my community, particularly talking to and helping other students with STEM related activities. In my spare time, I enjoy going to church, random events on campus, and writing short stories.

• ndeere@tamu.edu
• Organizations & Programs:

  Anthropological Society, The Femmatas

• Awards & Distinctions:

  Undergraduate Research Ambassador

• Experience with: Volunteer Work, Summer Research

I am an Anthropology major with a minor in Museum Studies from Cedar Park, Texas. I am planning on pursuing a PhD in Ancient Civilizations. When I am not in the lab, you can find me singing with the Femmatas (A&M's only all female a cappella group), watching Netflix, studying at Evans, hanging out with friends, or reading any book I can get my hands on. 

I began working in the Shipwrecks of the Americas Lab in the Anthropology building as an artifact documenter in the Fall of 2017. I had heard about the opportunity through the Anthropological Society and immediately jumped into technical drawing despite never having doodled more than a stick man before. The Graduate-Undergraduate Mentor Program started up and I decided to join under the supervision of Carolyn Kennedy, who I was already documenting for. I told her I wanted to get into research and she gave me a project relating to her dissertation to work on. Because of that, I am currently tracking the spread of cholera throughout the United States in 1832 via steamboats. Carolyn's dissertation is on the Phoenix II, the steamboat that brought cholera from Montreal into the United States. My job was to follow this elusive line of boats all the way across the Great Lakes, the Ohio River, and down the Mississippi to New Orleans. Due to this amazing opportunity, it allowed me to show my dedication to archaeology and the lab I am working for. This led to Carolyn asking me, on behalf of another graduate student, Julia Herbst, if I would join her on the Block 37 Schooner Project in Toronto in Summer 2018. Of course, I enthusiastically agreed and will be assisting in the documentation of the sailing vessel found there.

• monafattahi9@tamu.edu
• Organizations & Programs:

  Texas A&M Women's Ultimate Frisbee Team, Dance Art Society, American Chemical Society,

• Experience with: Presentation, Study Abroad, Research for Credit

Howdy! My name is Mona Fattahi and I’m a senior chemistry major from Dusseldorf, Germany minoring in art and mathematics. Coming into research I thought I was going to go into Chemistry and work into the field until I joined my first research group. I have found my true passion in research through investigation and discovering new methods that can become a green sustainable reaction. 

My previous project focused on the use of a  copolymer to sequester water and prevent metal surface corrosion, while also acting as a protective additive in lubricants to decrease frictional forces and increase the life-span of the machineries. Attempts to address these issues have included the use of metal nanoparticles to act as additives that reduce friction and wear between surfaces, but this approach neglects the water contamination issue. In summary, I was determining a way to remove water from oil to reduce corrosion on machinery components. 

 Research has given me an opportunity to enrich my chemistry degree beyond the proficiencies gained in the laboratory or class setting. I also learned about time management, synthesizing and collecting data, but most importantly, research allowed me to become a better thinker. I have been able to apply my chemistry knowledge to more problematic issues that are relevant to today’s issues. Overall, research has prepared me to excel in my area of interest and to broaden my horizons.  

When I am not in the lab, you can find me hiking, traveling, painting, church or playing sports. You can always find on the Penberthy Field practicing with Texas A&M Women’s Ultimate Frisbee Team. 

• sashag178@tamu.edu
• Organizations & Programs:

  College of Engineering Ambassadors, Aggie Research Scholar, Peer Tutor

• Awards & Distinctions:

  Undergraduate Summer Research Grant, Ray B Nesbitt '55 Scholarship

• Experience with: Summer Research, Presentations, Thesis program

Howdy! I am a junior chemical engineering major with a minor in computer science from Bangalore, India. I first got involved in undergraduate research during my freshman year, starting this early helped me easily chose a major I was interested in before applying through the ETAM process. My current research under Dr Cheng in the Department of Chemical Engineering focuses on soft matter, specifically liquid crystals. My project focuses on determining whether Cellulose Nano Crystals (derived from cellulose, the most abundant polymer on Earth) can be used in technological devices and other application as an economic alternative. Performing experiments in the lab using methods and concepts learnt in my classes has given me a better grasp on the physical meaning of this material.

Apart from research I’m also involved in a few other campus organisations and activities such as College of Engineering Student Ambassadors and American Institute of Chemical Engineers where I actively participate and the Academic Success Center where I work as a peer tutor.

Getting involved in research early on has provided me with a lot of opportunities. I was able to participate in the undergraduate thesis program at LAUNCH where I gained valuable research and writing skills and I was able to get in to the Engineering REU program here at Texas A&M for the summer, due to my previous research experience. Additionally, Undergraduate research has helped me realize my dream of going to grad school to pursue PhD in Chemical Engineering.

• oscargon1234@tamu.edu
• Organizations & Programs:

  Aggie Quiz Bowl, American Chemical Society, Texas A&M Tabletop Troupe, Century Scholars Organization

• Awards & Distinctions:

  Goldwater Scholarship Honorable Mention, Dean's Honor Roll, Astronaut Scholarship Nominee

• Experience with: Summer Research, Presentations, Internships

I am a sophomore chemistry major from San Juan, Texas minoring in physics and mathematics. I am currently doing research under Dr. Sarbajit Banerjee and my plans after graduation are to attend graduate school where I will obtain a PhD in chemistry. In addition, I plan to become a professor and lead my own research group. My current focus is on inorganic and physical chemistry, though I enjoy other areas of chemistry such as organic chemistry. When I am not in the chemistry building I am doing my duties as a Century Scholars mentor, practicing for Quiz Bowl, or playing board games. 

My undergraduate research experience began when I assisted Dr. Meigan Aronson in her lab on the second semester of my freshman year. I then joined Dr. Banerjee’s research group in the summer following my freshman year where I worked on the synthesis of magnesium nanowires and different phases of hafnium dioxide. Working under Dr. Banerjee has been an eye-opening experience and it has made me realize that I want to solve problems that hinder technological advancements. I have also been accepted into MIT’s Summer Research Program and cannot wait to share my experiences with other undergraduates, as well as incoming freshman.

• marita01@tamu.edu
• Organizations & Programs:

  Aggie Research Scholars Program, Aggie Research Leadership Program, HOSA, On to Medicine, Partnership in Primary Care (PPC),Honors Student Council, Sophomore Adviser for the class of 2022.

• Activities:

  Works at Cannon Lab at TAMU

• Awards & Distinctions:

  Distinguished Student and Dean’s Honor Roll for Fall 2017, Recipient of the St. David’s Neal Kocurek Scholarship and the Presidents Endowed Scholarship.

• Experience with: Research on luminescent properties of lanthanide metals at UT Austin FRI team with Dr. DePue, Certified Nurse Assistant and a Pharmacy Technician at Austin

As a Biomedical Sciences Major, pursuing a Biomedical Sciences Research Certificate, I am a proud member of the Class of 2021 from College Station, Texas! In addition to Undergraduate Research Ambassadors, I am part of the early assurance program known as PPC and a member of a religious organization known as THRIVE. I am also part of the Honors Student Council and Sophomore Adviser for the University Honors Students class of 2022. My hobbies include reading and creating music. A majority of my time is spent towards my research on Childhood Food Insecurity. As a team we go to the Boys and Girls club weekly and promote an after school club known as Positive Sprouts, helping the children learn how to garden with the limited resources that they may have. 

Right when I came to TAMU as a freshman, I was fortunate enough to be part of the Childhood Food Insecurity Research team that is mentored by Dr. Sarah Gatson. After a semester, I was able to lead my own team for the topic that I am truly passionate about. We do literary analysis on Childhood Food Insecurity to see and establish correlations between preexisting influential factors that gives growth to this detrimental crisis. 

This research has greatly impacted me to open my eyes and look past the rudimentary aspects of a social issue and try to find the root cause to mitigate this problem, at least in the community I currently reside in. Instead of simply trying to fix the problem momentarily, this research has given me a thirst to seek a way to eradicate the problem. I believe it is the way we frame a problem determines the kind of solutions that we get.

• jkh0219@tamu.edu
• Organizations & Programs:

  COALS Ambassador, MSC Spencer Leadership Conference DIrector, VIDA, MSC L.T. Jordan, Sophomore Adviser for the class of 2022

• Awards & Distinctions:

  Dean's Honor Roll, Dewitt C & Bethel Winter Cox recipient

• Experience with: Internships, Research Compliance, Study Abroad, EMT basic Certified

I am a sophomore Biochemistry and Genetics double major from Austin, Texas. My plans after graduation is focused on attending medical school. Aside from research, I enjoy playing badminton and trying out different restaurants.

I am currently an undergraduate researcher in Dr. Chapkin's lab. Our lab has previously shown that obesity can promote colonic stem cell expansion, resulting in cancer initiation. A recent publication from our lab further found that the hormone, adiponectin, which is downregulated in obese individuals, could be a key link between obesity and colorectal cancer. From these studies we hypothesize that adiponectin attenuates the initiation of colon cancer stemming via its agonist effects on its respective receptors in the Lgr5+ stem cells of colon crypts.  My research project is specifically focused on understanding the effect of disrupting this signaling pathway via genetically knocking out either adiponectin receptor 1 or its isoform, adiponectin receptor 2. This research will provide further insight into how obesity and the initiation of colorectal cancer are linked.

My experience in Undergraduate Research is one of the major components of my college career.Science was always in books, simple lab settings, and on the internet. Much of science experienced before undergraduate research already had an answer to them. However, research has opened my eyes to a whole new world where there is still so much to be discovered. From research, I have gained so much so far and am very excited to gain more in the future.

• summerlehman@tamu.edu
• Organizations & Programs:

  The Psychology Department's Student Diversity and Inclusion Committee

• Awards & Distinctions:

  Psi Chi International Honor Society in Psychology

• Experience with: Spring/Fall Semester Research, Summer Research, IRB, Human Subjects Research, Presentations, Research Proposals, Proctoring

I am a junior from Magnolia, Texas pursuing a major in Psychology and a minor in Women's and Gender Studies. I am passionate about diversity and inclusion and am a member of the Student Diversity and Inclusion Committee. I am also a member of Psi Chi, the International Honor Society in Psychology. I plan to pursue a Ph.D. in Industrial/Organizational Psychology and focus my research on the experiences of stigmatized individuals in the workplace. When I am not in the lab, I enjoy playing volleyball, cooking, and watching basketball. 

I joined Dr. Isaac Sabat's research lab in the spring of 2017, and since then have also worked with Dr. Winfred Arthur and Dr. Mindy Bergman. I have assisted with several research projects, including studies on stigmas surrounding atheism, pregnancy, and political ideology. I have also worked on a grant in partnership with the Aerospace Engineering department here at A&M for which I helped to design a survey to assess the diversity of their department as well as their retention. Currently, I am writing a review piece with Dr. Sabat and his graduate students which synthesizes the current literature on confronting prejudice in the workplace in order to identify the gaps in confrontation research and to direct future work on the matter. I am also working on my own project that examines how the different dimensions of sexist actions interact to effect the perceptions of the victims and perpetrators of sexism and sexual harassment. The ability to pursue research on topics I am passionate about has allowed me to excel in my academic career. I hope to help other students reach their full potential as well through undergraduate research.

• Jacquelyn@tamu.edu
• Organizations & Programs:

  University Honors, Biochemistry and Genetics Society, Gomer Lab

• Activities:

  Brazos Civic Orchestra, TAMU chamber orchestra, vounteering at the College Station Medical Center

• Awards & Distinctions:

  Lechner scholarship recipient, C.O.A.L.S. scholarship recipient, Dean's Honor Roll

• Experience with: Summer research, hospital volunteering, research presentations and tabling

Howdy, I’m a junior genetics major, classical music dabbler, incorrigible introvert, and research enthusiast! After college, I plan to pursue medical school and a career practicing oncology, but for now I am trying to make the most of my undergraduate experience. I spend most of my free time in orchestra, in the lab, snuggling my dog, or OUTSIDE.  I currently play bass in the Texas A&M chamber orchestra as well as in the Brazos Civic orchestra, and I credit orchestra for my sanity remaining intact through all the years of stressing over tests, GPA’s, and social situations. My next favorite pass-time is anything outside: camping, eating, sleeping, hiking, river-floating (literally anything that doesn’t include running). 

Notice how research isn’t included on my list of time-consuming obligations. Working in my lab at this point feels less like a graduation requirement than a way to exercise my brain while doing something that I love. Last summer, I began working in Dr. Gomer’s lab and was immediately surprised at the camaraderie between lab members, diversity of projects, and high profile of some of the research. Since then, my enjoyment of research has only expanded, and I have learned how to explore my own ideas through research just like the grad students whom I admire so much. In general, my lab uses Dictyostelium discoideum, a really cute little amoeba, as a model organism for human immune response cells in our pursuit to design therapeutics for common lung diseases. My current project uses video microscopy to determine the effect of polyphosphate, a chemical found in all living things, on pseudopod growth in wild type D. discoideum. If significant differences are found between the poly p group and the control group, I will try to isolate mutants that react differently than the wild type in hopes of elucidating a pathway. 

If you have any doubts about my love for research, feel free to drop my lab and ask me anything…. I’ll be there ALL SUMMER (I know, I know… college students are getting WILD these days)! Research has enhanced my undergraduate experience immeasurably, and my goal is to extend that experience to as many peers as possible!

• madelyn.phillips@tamu.edu
• Organizations & Programs:

  Media Influence Research Internship 

  MSC Bethancourt 

  Undergraduate Research Assistant

• Experience with: IRB Human Subjects Research, Experimental Research, Content Analysis, Data Analysis and Statistical Modeling, Library Research, Academic Presentations

Howdy! My name is Madelyn and I am currently a senior working on a degree in Political Science with minors in Psychology and Communication. Needless to say, social science is my thing. Specifically, understanding the effects of media on political attitudes and behavior fascinates me. When you consider the ever evolving nature of communication and technology as well as the increasingly polarized political climate – there are constantly new questions to explore. How have smartphones changed the way we learn and think about politics? What role, if any, does human psychology have in deciding our political preferences? When is news biased? Moreover, how do our own biases affect our evaluation of news and politics as a whole? All of these are questions that have motivated my research at some point.

I initially got involved in research after taking Mass Media and American Politics with Dr. Johanna Dunaway. Not only was I extremely interested in the material, but I also saw how passionate she was about her work. Once I realized that she essentially gets to learn for a living, that was it. I knew I had to find out more. Since reaching out to Dr. Dunaway, I’ve been knee deep in all things research. From data collection, coding, and analysis to running and coordinating experiments, and even traveling to conferences and giving a few presentations. Participating in research as an undergrad has without a doubt been the most rewarding experience of my college career. It’s completely changed the trajectory of my life and I am so grateful for the opportunity to share what I’ve gained from this experience with others. As important as research is to me, I take a break every now and then to focus on my other passions: figure skating, music, and my sweet 11 year old dachshund, Miller.
 

• ekprice97@tamu.edu
• Organizations & Programs:

  Texas A&M National Scholar Ambassadors, Texas A&M Chamber Orchestra

• Activities:

  Technical Services Co-op with Marathon Petroleum Company

• Awards & Distinctions:

  Brown Scholar, President's Endowed Scholar, Engineering Honors Distinction

• Experience with: Industry Co-ops, Study Abroads

I am a senior Chemical Engineering major from Denton, Texas and have worked as an undergraduate researcher in Dr. Green’s group for two years. In Dr. Green’s group, I work to develop scalable methods of making and functionalizing nanomaterials such as graphene, carbon nanotubes, and boron nitride nanosheets. My current project focuses on the addition of organic functional groups to nanosheets to compatibilize the sheets with polymer matrices. My experience in undergraduate research has inspired me to pursue a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering after I graduate. In the future, I hope to perform research in the application of nanomaterials to the development of sustainable energy sources, and eventually, I aim to become a professor so that I can help to develop the bright, young minds of the next generation. When I am not in the lab, I love to spend my time playing the viola in the Texas A&M Chamber Orchestra, assisting with events at my church, attending concerts, reading, and hiking.

• nataaq@tamu.edu
• Organizations & Programs:

  Texas A&M MEDLIFE, M.A.P.S, Nutrition Honors, CIMPIR TierOneProgram

• Activities:

  Work and MEDLIFE Mobile Clinic Officer.

• Awards & Distinctions:

  Geoffrey & James Kunkle Memorial Scholarship

• Experience with: Internships and Neuroscience research

I am a Nutrition major minoring in neuroscience, originally from Bogotá, Colombia. Upon graduating from Texas A&M, I plan to attend medical school and pursue a career in neurology. I currently serve as Mobile Clinic officer for the MEDLIFE chapter at A&M and work as a Certified Pharmacy Technician. In addition, I participate in intramurals, research, and volunteer with my organizations. In my spare time, I enjoy cooking, exercising, and traveling.  

I became involved in research through the Tier One Program for Collaborative Initiatives in Maternal, Perinatal and Infant Health Research. This research program has given me the invaluable opportunity to work alongside Dr. Louise Abbott in the department of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences. The research we have been working on is the link between heavy metal exposure and the development of particular neurological aspects of zebrafish embryos. The metals of interest in our research are Cadmium and Nickel. After completing our research, our objective is to understand the synergistic effect of Nickel and Cadmium on brain development of zebrafish embryos. Participating in research has been incredible and enhanced my passion for science and the medical field.

• tanman22@tamu.edu
• Organizations & Programs:

  American Society of Mechanical Engineers, American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics

• Activities:

  Design Build and Fly Design Team, Running, Rec- Sports

• Awards & Distinctions:

  Undergraduate Research Scholar

• Experience with: Co-Ops, 3D Printing Technology, UAV Flying, STEM Presentations

I am a Mechanical Engineering major from Sulphur Spring, Texas. When I am not studying or attending class I like to stay busy with different design teams such as Design Build and Fly.  I also enjoy staying fit by running around College Station and by playing anything with a ball in it at the Rec. I have multiple interests in the engineering and technology world that has lead me to be a bit of a drone and 3D printing enthusiast. 

It is my interest in 3D printing that has pushed me to research in the field of additive manufacturing, in particular a process called Selective Laser Melting which allows for the printing of 3D metal parts. I began this research at the start of my Junior year under the authority of Dr. Chao Ma and proctored by graduate student Ming Li. I lead my team to design and fabricate a vacuum chamber to be used along a student design laser station so that metallic powders could be researched more precisely. My experiences in the undergraduate research program have taught me not only how to tackle an open ended question but also on how to lead others so the team can achieve a task that is greater than the sum of its parts. I am willing to share my experiences with anyone who will listen whether it be about research, on campus jobs, or co-ops any of which I would be happy to discuss.

• sandhiya97@tamu.com
• Organizations & Programs:

  TAMU Executive Organization of Health Councils (ECHO), Undergraduate Research Ambassadors

• Activities:

  Yoga, Crossfit, Fishing, Crime Shows

• Awards & Distinctions:

  Aggie Research Scholar, LAUNCH Undergraduate Research Scholars Thesis Program

• Experience with: Thesis Writing, Summer Research, Presentations, Research for Credit, Microbiology

I am a junior Biomedical Science major with a minor in Neuroscience from College Station, TX. I was accepted early decision into the Teach for America corps where I will be teaching high school science in a low-income school district in the San Antonio area when I graduate.  

The first time I got involved in undergraduate research was the summer before my freshman year of college. There was a program in my high school that matched graduating seniors with labs on campus that needed undergraduate research assistants. It was through that program that I first met Dr. Merlin and worked with her for a semester on her monarch butterflies and circadian rhythm. This is also the reason I run away anytime I see a butterfly.

My existing research project is a little different than what I did with her. I am currently trying to fight Salmonella’s resistance to antibiotics with Dr. Helene Andrews-Polymenis. There are about 500 deaths each year in the united states from Salmonella and about 400,000 deaths each year worldwide. All of which are completely preventable. Even though Salmonella is a bacterium, we cannot treat it with antibiotics like with any other bacterial infection because it actually makes the symptoms worse and prolongs the infection time. The reason Salmonella is so resistant to antibiotics is because of a pump that sits on the outer cell wall of the bacteria that is constantly spitting out antibiotics. My research is focused on what exactly makes the pump work. So hopefully in the future this leads us to killing two birds with one stone. We can understand how the pump works and we can use that knowledge to treat those who have contracted Salmonella with its own defense mechanisms.

When I am not in the lab hanging out with my bacteria, you can usually find me in bed watching a cop show (Criminal Minds, Blue Bloods, Law and Order) or a doctor show (House, Grey’s Anatomy, The Good Doctor). I think now is a good time to mention that if I seem a crankier than usual one day, it’s because I haven’t had a chance to meditate. I love doing yoga and have very recently started doing CrossFit as well. I also have a three-legged dog named Triple Threat, who I call Trip for short.

• alexstrasser16410@tamu.edu
• Organizations & Programs:

  Christian Engineering Leaders, Tau Beta Pi (Engineering Honors Society), Omega Chi Epsilon (Chemical Engineering Honors Society), Multiply groups (Grace Bible Church)

• Awards & Distinctions:

  Brown Scholar, NAE Grand Challenge Scholar, Undergraduate Research Scholar, BP Scholar, University and Engineering Honors

• Experience with: Three oral (one invited) and two poster presentations at research conferences. Poster presentations at TAMU SRW and GCSP Symposium. ~1.5 years of research work experience at Oak Ridge National Laboratory.

Howdy! I am a senior chemical engineer with minors in physics and materials science, and I plan to pursue a PhD in physics and become a professor. My urge to continue research in academia comes from wanting to inspire the next generation of students to earnestly pursue discovery and also from my own innate desire to advance human knowledge. My fascination with quantum phenomena at the nanoscopic level has been augmented by experimental research as well as my current theoretical pursuits in quantum mechanics.     

My research interests lie primarily in optical and electrical properties of 2D materials, although I have research experience with polymers, non-linear optics, 3D-printing, nanomaterial synthesis and characterization, density functional theory, and biofuels, both experimental and computational. Additional interests include theology and philosophy, and I definitely enjoy conversations about faith (and the relevant evidential truth claims).

• rtindall@tamu.edu
• Organizations & Programs:

  University Honors, Engineering Honors, Undergraduate Teaching Fellow for Physics Department

• Activities:

  TAMU Tennis Club, Traditions Hospice Volunteer, Wesley Foundation

• Awards & Distinctions:

  Undergraduate Research Scholar, Morrow Scholar, Omega Chi Epsilon Honors Society, Dean's Honor Roll

• Experience with: Research internships, oral presentations

Howdy! I am a senior pursuing a degree in chemical engineering and hoping to attend medical school following my graduation. I grew up right here in College Station, Texas, so I have been a die-hard Aggie all of my life. WHOOP!! In addition to research, I enjoy playing tennis with the TAMU Club Team and sharing my passion for physics with freshman engineering students.

 

I came into college interested in the chemical industry (hence, my choice of major); but I quickly realized that I was actually passionate about medicine. I joined Dr. Wu’s lab in the TAMU Chemical Engineering department in Spring 2018 so that I can explore my interests in medicine by employing the important principles I am learning in my chemical engineering studies to study biological systems. I work primarily on model membrane development for diagnostic use and drug delivery systems. I have optimized a turbidity-based emulsion agglutination assay that we can use to test the binding mechanism that bacterial cells use to initiate infection with host cells. We are now working to take advantage of this knowledge to develop a drug delivery system that can specifically target bacterial infections.

 

My opportunity in the lab has provided me with a unique interdisciplinary outlet to pursue my passion for chemical engineering and medicine. I have gained unparalleled experience that has opened my eyes to the importance of research in all fields and particularly the significance of research in the practice of medicine. Also, my experience has provided me with the opportunity to take an internship at Oak Ridge National Lab in Summer 2019, where I will study the effects of butanol on membranes for applications in bio-butanol production.

• lowampler2020@tamu.edu
• Organizations & Programs:

  Alpha Eta Mu Beta, Tau Beta Pi, Biomedical Engineering Society, University Honors, Engineering Honors

• Awards & Distinctions:

  President's Endowed Scholar, Dean's Honor Roll

• Experience with: Summer Research, Presentations, Study Abroad, Switching Research Interests

I am a senior Biomedical Engineering major from Albuquerque, New Mexico. Although not a native Texan, I have grown to call it my home through my time at Texas A&M. Upon graduation, I plan to pursue a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering and pursue biomechanical device design in industry. I believe this is a good avenue to pursue my medical interests while applying the mechanical concepts that come naturally and fascinate me. When not participating in school, I enjoy hiking, camping, skiing, and other outdoor activities. 

I have moved around research laboratories and areas of interests extensively. I began in Dr. Carolyn Cannon’s research lab in the Reynold’s Health Sciences Center. I designed electrospun scaffolds and nanoparticles with silver ibuprofen embedded as a means to mitigate infection. However, I seized the opportunity to work during a summer at the University of New Mexico under Dr. Eva Chi to investigate the protein structural changes associated with Alzheimer’s disease progression. During the fall of my junior year, I began in Dr. Michael Moreno’s Biomechanical Environments Laboratories. I initially worked on designing a silicone model of an aortic valve for pressure flow modeling, but have proceeded to work intimately with a whole body biomechanics project. I use motion capture software to observe and analyze the biomechanics of quarterback throwing and baseball pitching and batting motions.

Research has altered the course of my undergraduate and career trajectories. I have gained invaluable mentors that have guided me along the path. Also, research has shown me the boundless nature of science that I plan to explore further and implement into my design processes in my future career.

• everettyang@gmail.com
• Organizations & Programs:

  Pi Mu Epsilon, Math Club, Society of Asian Scientists and Engineers

• Activities:

  Aggies Invent, TAMUHack, TAMU Math Contest (second place), Microsoft College Code Competition, Aggie Challenge

• Awards & Distinctions:

  NAE Grand Challenge Scholar, MAA MathFest Best Speaker Award

• Experience with: Summer Research, Presentations

I am a Senior Computer Science major and Mathematics minor from Houston, Texas. I currently conduct research at Parasol Lab (which I joined in Fall 2017) under Dr. Nancy Amato. Using probabilistic motion planning methods, we are able to accurately model protein-ligand interactions and create a computational framework for practical applications (e.g, drug design).

Aside from research, I like to involve myself in various campus activities and organizations such as Pi Mu Epsilon, Aggies Invent, and TAMUHack. I am also participating in the NAE Grand Challenge Scholars program, which has encouraged me to go abroad to the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology this Fall. In my spare time, I enjoy reading, going rockclimbing, learning interesting mathematics, and programming cool things.

I plan to pursue a Ph.D in Computer Science or Mathematics and make a career as a researcher.

• danielle_yarbrough@tamu.edu
• Organizations & Programs:

  Aggie Research Scholars, Zachry Leadership Program, Ingenium: The Texas A&M College of Engineering Student Blog, Aggies for Christ

• Activities:

  Camping, Traveling, Reading, Sketching, Acrylic painting, DIY projects

• Awards & Distinctions:

  President's Endowed Scholar

• Experience with: Presentations, Publication Process, Agricultural Regulations, Polymer Chemistry, Scientific Writing, Summer Research

I am from a very small town in northeast Texas called Winnsboro, where I grew up on a cattle ranch and learned about the world by exploring it every day. I have always had such an appreciation for nature and have been fascinated with how it all works and fits together. I knew from a young age that I loved science, but it took me a while to realize how passionate I am about the pursuit of scientific knowledge through research. 

 

In my first research experience, I worked at the Office of the Texas State Chemist, a lab that deals with animal feed and fertilizer regulations. There, my project dealt with antimicrobial and pesticide contaminants in animal feed. I was able to present the project during Student Research Week and even publish an article about it in Explorations: the undergraduate research journal at Texas A&M. Now, I work in the Sukhishvili lab on constructing layer-by-layer polymer coatings for possible future biomedical applications. Currently, I am working with polymer coatings that can trap small molecules such as antibiotics.

 

Through my experiences with research and over the course of getting my degree in chemical engineering, I have learned that I truly have a passion for this work and that I want to pursue research as a future career. I am very excited to be an Undergraduate Research Ambassador and share my experiences and my insight with fellow students. I hope to show them just how valuable, memorable, and fun that any undergraduate research experience can be, no matter what they plan to do in the future!