Meet the 2023-24 Fellows
Jack Kaszas
RISE Scholar/ REU Advanced Materials: 2022
Program: Materials Science and Engineering PhD
Undergraduate Studies: University of Connecticut, Materials Science and Engineering
Thesis Advisor: Dr. Richard Riman
Ph.D. Research Topic: Sustainable materials
Support post Super Grad Award, other notable Awards, fellowships, publications or accomplishments: NSF-GRFP Fellow, Fellow of the American Concrete Institute
Current status in graduate program/Expected graduation: Graduate Student
Advice for prospective graduate students: Get involved with on-campus clubs and organizations!
BIO: Jack Kaszas Graduated from University of Connecticut where he studied material science and engineering. During his time at the university of Connecticut, Jack worked as an atomic force microscope scientist in Dr. Bryan Huey’s lab, where he helped develop novel characterization methods for functional materials. As a Rise scholar, Jack studied carbonate cement, a ceramic material being explored as a more environmentally friendly alternative to modern Portland cement. Jack decided to return to Rutgers to continue his studies in the field of carbonate cement materials under the guidance of his thesis advisor, Dr. Richard Riman.
Advice for Prospective Graduate Students: Take a little vacation in between finishing undergrad and starting work in your graduate lab! You deserve it.
Kylie Bond
RISE Scholar: Summer 2022
Program: Microbial Biology
Undergraduate Studies: Delaware State University, Forensic Biology
Thesis Advisor: Dr. Nancy Woychik
Ph.D. Research Topic: Toxin-antitoxin systems within Mycobacterium abscessus.
Support post Super Grad Award, other notable Awards, fellowships, publications or accomplishments: Currently working as a TA for the 2024-2025 school year.
Current status in graduate program/Expected graduation: 2nd year Ph.D. Student
Advice for prospective graduate students: Ask all the questions you can.
BIO: Kylie Bond graduated from Delaware State University with B.S. in Forensic Biology with a minor in Chemistry. During her time as an undergraduate Kylie gained experience in forensic microbiology at her home institution and environmental microbiology as a student in the RISE at Rutgers program. Currently, in her thesis laboratory, Kylie studies toxin-antitoxin systems within Mycobacterium abscessus, focusing on how these systems alter that bacterium and influence its susceptibility to antibiotics.
Victoria Brown
Undergraduate Studies: Kenyon College
Rise Scholar: Summer 2022
Program: Cell and Developmental Biology
Brief Bio: Victoria Brown graduated from Kenyon College with a B.A. in Molecular Biology, a minor in Anthropology, and a concentration in African Diaspora studies. During her undergraduate career, Victoria worked in the lab of Dr. Matthew Rouhier and researched the location of solute carrier (SLC) and organic anion (OAT) xenobiotic transport proteins in the yellow fever mosquito Aedes aegypti. As a RISE Scholar, Victoria worked to identify the binding partners of the BSL1 protein of the stomatal developmental pathway under the mentorship of Dr. Juan Dong and post-doc Deepanjali Verma.
Advice for Prospective Graduate Students: Follow your passion and trust your instincts. Don’t try to make your journey look like someone else’s. Learn to be comfortable with asking questions; no one knows everything!
Rebecca Horwitz
Undergraduate Studies: Carleton College
NSF Internship in Ocean Sciences (RIOS): Summer 2021
Program: Oceanography
Brief Bio: Becca graduated from Carleton College in June of 2022 with a double B.A degree in both geology and environmental studies. During the summer of 2021 Becca began working with Dr. Travis Miles in the department of marine and coastal sciences at Rutgers University for her RIOS program. They studied the potential effects of the development of offshore wind along the east coast of the United States on the coastal environment in the region. More specifically, they looked at the overlap of a unique coastal ocean stratification with the proposed wind lease areas. Becca continued this work her senior year of college with Dr. Miles, Dr. Daphne Munroe, and Dr. Josh Kohut and after graduating was able to relay the results into a publication. After graduating college, Becca went on to work as a research assistant for Dr. Munroe at the Rutgers University Haskin Shellfish Research Laboratory studying the surf clam fishery. Becca is excited to pursue her PhD in oceanography within the department of marine and coastal science as she has loved her experience here for the past two years!
Advice for Prospective Graduate Students: Surround yourself with people who make you feel like you belong and push you to be your best self.
Zenaida Rosario
Ronald E. McNair Program: 2019 Cohort
Program: Ph.D in Higher Education
Undergraduate Studies: Rutgers University – New Brunswick , Social Work
Thesis Advisor: Nichole M. Garcia
Ph.D. Research Topic: The experiences of BIPOC women attending predominantly white higher education institutions
Support post Super Grad Award, other notable Awards, fellowships, publications or accomplishments: Pending
Current status in graduate program/Expected graduation: Graduate Student
Advice for prospective graduate students: Get connected! It’s important to connect with the faulty members and current students in the program you are interested in. They can give you great insight into their program and answer any questions you may have.
BIO: Zenaida Rosario participated in the Ronald E. McNair Postbaccalaureate Achievement Program in Summer 2019. During this program, Zenaida was able to complete a research proposal under the advisement of Dr. Nichole M. Garcia that focused on the use of counter spaces, faculty and peer influence, and institutional support to increase the degree attainment of Black women who attend predominantly white institutions. Zenaida has presented her research proposal at multiple conferences and has received recognition for her work within the McNair Program. Most recently, Zenaida has earned her Master’s in Social Work, focusing on the mental health of adolescents and young adults through her internship for the past two years. Zenaida looks forward to using her education and experiences as she continues her studies in Fall 2024 in the Ph.D. in Higher Education program at Rutgers University – New Brunswick.
RISE Associates
Stephanie Albarracin
Undergraduate Studies: Hunter College-Cuny
Rise Scholar: Summer 2018
Program: Material Science and Engineering
Brief Bio: Stephanie Albarracin graduated from Hunter College-Cuny where she studied Material Science and Engineering. While at Hunter College-Cuny, Stephanie worked in Dr. Steven Greenbaum’s NMR lab measuring the coefficient of self-diffusion of Li+ and F+ of a novel polymer with promising transport properties for solid state battery application. As A RISE Scholar, Stephanie worked in Dr. Masanori Hara’s lab where she worked to determine which mixing method produced polymers with the lowest glass transition temperature.
Advice for Prospective Graduate Students: Take the time to explore your research interests.
Alexander Hidalgo
Undergraduate Studies: William Paterson University
Rise Scholar: Summer 2022
Program: Chemistry and Chemical Biology
Brief Bio: In Spring 2023, Alexander graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Medicinal Biochemistry from William Paterson University. Throughout his undergraduate career he gained interest in chemical research while working with Dr. Yalan Xing, in the multistep synthesis of natural products, and the alkynylation of benzylic substrates using photo-redox catalysis. As a RISE scholar of 2022, Alex worked with Dr. Vikas Nanda in the applications of Machine Learning for the design of non-canonical proteins relevant to electron transport channels. Moreover, as a Youth council member at NJCDC, he has served communities of Passaic county, through outreach programs that aim at increasing minority representation in STEM fields. After a transformative experience with RISE, Alex decided to continue at Rutgers pursuing a doctoral degree in Chemistry & Chemical Biology. In the future he intends to become a principal investigator and integrate artificial intelligence with de novo protein design for applications to biotechnology and medicine. During his free time, he enjoys cooking, hiking, and spending time with friends and family.
Advice for Prospective Graduate Students: ” You are exactly where you need to be, just trust the process!”
Taina Moore
RISE/ SURF Scholar: Summer 2021
Program: Joint Graduate Program in Toxicology
Undergraduate Studies: Tuskegee University, Chemistry
Thesis Advisor: Dr. Phoebe Stapleton
Ph.D. Research Topic: Environmental Toxicants and Reproductive Health
Support post Super Grad Award, other notable Awards, fellowships, publications or accomplishments: Funding: SDS Dean’s Fellow, Janis & Gary Grover Scholar, Gala Scholar – first year. This year I am funded by a Training (T32) Grant Fellowship
Accomplishments: During my first year, I presented a poster at the Mid-Atlantic Society of Toxicology (MASOT) Regional Conference where I discussed personal care products’ hazard scores and how those relate to different sociodemographic factors.
Current status in graduate program/Expected graduation: 2nd Year / My main focus is excelling in my classes this semester, however, my current lab project focuses on understanding how exposure to micro-nanoparticles (TiO2 / plastic) has an effect on maternal and fetal health outcomes.
Advice for prospective graduate students: Starting graduate school is like shedding old skin. Give yourself grace to fail, grow, and learn.
BIO: Taina Moore is a native of Northern Illinois, about an hour north of Chicago where she was raised by her Haitian mother and African-American father. During her pursuit of a bachelor’s in chemistry at the illustrious Tuskegee University, she stumbled upon the career of a pharmacologist. From there, she applied to the first pharmacology internship she could find, which happened to be the RISE at Rutgers/SURF program hosted in the Toxicology department at Rutgers. After graduating from Tuskegee, she decided to continue her education as a PhD student in Toxicology at Rutgers. Outside of class/lab, Taina is involved in the Council of Black Graduates (CBG), the Initiative for Maximizing Student Development (IMSD), the Rutgers Health Peer Support Program as a Peer Supporter, and anything that has to do with dancing. Taina’s main goal in life is to be a person who inspires and motivates others.
2022-23 Fellows
Diana Grajeda
RISE Scholar: Summer 2021
Program: Rutgers University, Physical Chemistry
Undergraduate Studies: New Mexico State University, Chemistry
Thesis Advisor: Andy Nieuwkoop
Ph.D. Research Topic: Currently I work on two distinct projects. The first involves using Nuclear Magnetic Resonance to interrogate the nanoscopic structure and dynamics of room temperature ionic liquids to better understand their macroscopic properties. The second project focuses on using ab initio molecular dynamics to develop a polarizable model that can accurately predict the thermophysical and transport properties of high temperature molten salts in the presence of volatile fission products.
Support post Super Grad Award, other notable Awards, fellowships, publications or accomplishments: Fellowship: GEM, Publication: “Do Ionic Liquids Slow Down in Stages?”, Internship: Idaho National Laboratory
Current status in graduate program/Expected graduation: PhD Candidate
Advice for prospective graduate students: The biggest piece of advice that I could offer is to within reason always say yes to an opportunity and to not be afraid of taking chances. Some of the best choices I’ve made in my career have come as a result of my willingness to try new things
BIO: Diana Grajeda graduated from New Mexico State University with a B.S. in Chemistry. As an NIH MARC scholar she worked with Dr. Marat Talipov combining computational and experimental methods to screen drug targets to help treat cardiovascular disease. As a RISE scholar Diana worked with Dr. Weiwei Xie, synthesizing and characterizing the electromagnetic properties of transition metal chalcogenides. Diana decided to return to Rutgers to pursue her PhD in Physical Chemistry, where she works with Dr. Andy Nieuwkoop using Nuclear Magnetic Resonance to study room temperature ionic liquids at the atomic scale. During her time at Rutgers Diana was awarded a GEM Fellowship. As a result of this award, she was given the opportunity to work at Idaho National Laboratory. Her work at INL focuses on using ab initio molecular dynamics to develop a polarizable model that can predict the thermophysical and transport properties of high temperature molten salts in the presence of volatile fission products. In the future she intends to become a principal investigator and create a mentorship program for LGBTQ+ minorities pursuing careers in STEM.
Laurian Rosa
Undergraduate Studies: University of Puerto Rico- Río Piedras
RISE Scholar: Summer 2021
Program: Geography
Brief Bio: Laurian Rosa Rosa graduated from the University of Puerto Rico-Río Piedras campus with a B.A in Geography, specializing in Human and Environmental Geography, in 2022. She is interested in topics related to political ecology and critical environmental studies. As a RISE scholar, she worked with Dr. Rhiney and Dr. Marston from the Department of Geography at Rutgers University. Her project focused on state-led efforts to privatize beaches in Puerto Rico and used qualitative methodologies, including interviews with environmental activists and experts and discourse analysis of government propaganda that supported the privatization of coastal lands. Laurian is pursuing a doctoral degree in Geography at the School of Arts and Sciences at Rutgers University. During her free time, she likes to go on road trips and watch movies.
Advice for prospective graduate students: Don’t be afraid to ask questions and take advantage of all the opportunities that come your way.
Gina Capece
Undergraduate Studies: BS- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Pennsylvania State University
RISE Scholar: Summer 2020
Program: Joint Graduate Program in Toxicology
Brief Bio: Gina Capece graduated in Spring 2022 from The Pennsylvania State University, Schreyer Honors College with a B.S. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. As an undergraduate, Gina completed her honors thesis in the lab of Dr. Joshua Lambert where she investigated the role of oxidative stress in the oral cancer inhibitory activity of dietary polyphenols. As a RISE scholar, she worked with Dr. Cody Smith in the lab of Dr. Debra Laskin to propose future experiments investigating the role of PGC1β in the resolution of ozone-induced lung inflammation in mice. After her experience with RISE, Gina decided to continue at Rutgers for her doctoral degree in toxicology. In the future, Gina intends to pursue a career as an industry scientist focused on the risk assessment of pharmaceuticals or personal care products. During her free time, she enjoys cooking/baking, watching movies, and spending time with friends and family.
Advice for prospective graduate students: Don’t be afraid to use your professional network and reach out to people across your field for advice.
Ariana Guzman
RISE Scholar: Summer 2021
Program: Italian
Undergraduate Studies: Hunter College, Italian Literature & Women and Gender Studies
Thesis Advisor: Pending
Ph.D. Research Topic: Pending
Support post Super Grad Award, other notable Awards, fellowships, publications or accomplishments: Pending
Current status in graduate program/Expected graduation: Third year PhD student
Advice for prospective graduate students:
BIO: Ariana Guzman (she/her) is a third year Ph.D. student in the Italian Department. She is pursing certificates in Women’s & Gender studies and Public Humanities at Rutgers University. She completed her B.A. in Italian Literature and Women and Gender Studies at CUNY Hunter College. Her research focuses on migration literature, gender and sexuality studies, and sociolinguistics.
2021-22 Fellows
Cesar Ramirez
RISE Scholar: Summer 2020
Program: Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering
Undergraduate Studies: B.S in Biomedical engineering from the University at Buffalo
Thesis Advisor: Pending
Ph.D. Research Topic: Pending
Support post Super Grad Award, other notable Awards, fellowships, publications or accomplishments: Pending
Current status in graduate program/Expected graduation: Ph.D. Candidate
Advice for prospective graduate students: Pending
BIO: Cesar Ramirez obtained his B.S in Biomedical engineering from the University at Buffalo in 2021. At Buffalo Cesar started his research involvement through the Louis Stokes Minority Participation (LSAMP) program. His research at UB involved the development of new biomaterials for biomedical applications, where he presented his research at the University at Buffalo’s undergraduate research conference and celebration of academic excellence. During the 2020 RISE program, Cesar participated in the REU for Cellular Bioengineering and worked on “Computational Control of Polymer Design” under the supervision of Dr. Adam Gormley, his now advisor. Thanks to Cesar’s participation in the RISE program, he realized the research and environment at Rutgers were a perfect fit for the next steps in his career.
Jennifer Guzman
RISE Scholar: Summer 18
Program: Chemistry
Undergraduate Studies: City University of New York H. Lehman College with a B.S in Chemistry
Thesis Advisor: Kate Waldie
Ph.D. Research Topic: N/A
Support post Super Grad Award, other notable Awards, fellowships, publications or accomplishments: NSF GRFP
Current status in graduate program/Expected graduation: Graduated with Masters adn now works as a research coordinator at Columbia University
BIO: Jennifer Guzman Pichardo graduated from the City University of New York H. Lehman College with a B.S in Chemistry, specializing in Biochemistry, in the Fall of 2019. As an undergraduate, Jennifer worked with Dr. Andrei Jitianu on synthesizing melting gels to use as a replacement for chromium VI as a more effective and safe anti-corrosive coating. As a RISE scholar, she worked with Dr. Jonathan Singer in the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering on investigating the influence of different parameters to obtain good quality coatings by using electrospray deposition of melting gels on different substrates, particularly silicon wafers and AZ31B magnesium alloy. As a result of her collaboration at Rutgers as a RISE scholar, she co-authored a manuscript published in the SPIE Laser Application in Microelectronics and Optoelectronic journal in 2019. Her second co- authored publication was in the proceedings for ASME 2021 16th International MSEC. Jennifer decided to pursue a doctoral degree at Rutgers due to her experience during the RISE summer program, the broad research topics being explored, and the amazing faculty and students on campus. In the future, she plans to become a principal investigator and run her own mentorship program for minority women pursuing a career in STEM. During her free time, she enjoys working out and watching movies.
Erika McCarthy
RISE Scholar: Summer 2020
Program: Ph.D. in Chemistry
Undergraduate Studies: Stevens Institute of Technology
Thesis Advisor: Darrin York
Ph.D. Research Topic: Computational modeling of RNA enzymes
Support post Super Grad Award, other notable Awards, fellowships, publications or accomplishments: NSF GRFP
Current status in graduate program/Expected graduation: Ph.D. Candidate
Advice for prospective graduate students: Pending
BIO: Erika earned her bachelor’s in Chemistry at Stevens Institute of Technology. As an undergraduate in the Zhang lab, Erika used gaussian calculations to elucidate the mechanism of HNO generation from hydroxyurea . Erika was awarded the ACS Division of Physical Chemistry undergraduate award and the ACS Division of Inorganic Chemistry undergraduate award. Erika participated in the 2020 RISE program. Under the mentorship of Dr Stephen Burley, Erika’s project concentrated on the Evolution of the COVID-19 proteome, “Evolution of the SARS-CoV-2 proteome in three dimensions (3D) during the first six months of the COVID-19 pandemic”. Erika decided to attend Rutgers for graduate school because as a theoretical/computational chemist, she was very excited by the work taking place in the center for integrative proteomics research. In addition, the RISE program exposed her to the excellent faculty in Institute for Quantitative Biology and Chemistry & Chemical Biology.
Zoey Eddy
RISE Scholar: Summer 2020
Program: Ph.D. in Social Psychology
Undergraduate Studies: University of California, Santa Barbara; Psychological and Brain Sciences
Thesis Advisor: Diana Sanchez
Ph.D. Research Topic: Multiracial identity and prejudice reduction
Support post Super Grad Award, other notable Awards, fellowships, publications or accomplishments: Rutgers University Presidential Fellowship; National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship; Ford Foundation Predoctoral Fellowship (Awarded); RU School of Graduate Studies Outstanding Master’s Student Merit and Achievement Award; RU Social Psychology Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Service Award (2x); RU Social Psychology Service Excellence Award; E3C Innovation Fund Grant; Eddy, Z., Small, P. A., Padilla-Garcia, D., & Major, B. (2023). Examining the effects of genetic ancestry information on appraisals of contested racial identities. Cultural Diversity and Ethnic Minority Psychology. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1037/cdp0000630; Cipollina, R., Eddy, Z., & Sanchez, D. T. (2024). Contested sexual identities and bi+ identity disclosure experiences. Journal of Bisexuality, 24(1), 1-25. https://doi.org/10.1080/15299716.2023.2285065; Eddy, Z., Sanchez, D. T., & Gaither, S. E. (in press). Social stigma and coping for people with pluralistic identities. In C. Stern (Ed.), Handbook of Experimental Social Psychology. Edward Elgar Publishing
Current status in graduate program/Expected graduation: 4th year graduate student; received M.S. (2024); Pre-qualifying exams
Advice for prospective graduate students: I encourage becoming involved in diversity initiatives! Joining DEI initiatives in my department and around the school of graduate studies broadly has made my graduate school experience so much more fulfilling and given me productive avenues to pursue in addition to research.
BIO: Zoey Eddy (she/her) is a 4th year doctoral student in the Social Psychology program. Her two main lines of research focus on 1) experiences of Multiracial individuals and parents of Multiracial children, and 2) exploring pathways to reduce prejudice. Zoey is a recipient of the National Science Foundation’s Graduate Research Fellowship for her work on these topics. She is passionate about improving diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts in higher education; thus, she is involved in multiple DEI committees, has mentored underrepresented students through the RiSE at Rutgers summer research program, and co-created Rutgers Diversifying Psychology Day, which is the first ever event in the Rutgers Psychology department designed to prepare potential psychology Ph.D. applicants from underrepresented and minoritized backgrounds for the graduate admissions process.
Karen Mae Bacalia
RISE Scholar: Summer 2020
Program: Ph.D. in Nutritional Sciences – Community and Applied Track
Undergraduate Studies: University of Guam – Chemistry and Agriculture: Human Nutrition and Food Sciences Track with minor in Biology
Thesis Advisor: Nurgul Fitzgerald PhD RDN
Ph.D. Research Topic: “Food is Medicine” intervention for chronic disease prevention and management for South Asians
Support post Super Grad Award, other notable Awards, fellowships, publications or accomplishments: I have been a TA under the Department of Life Sciences every semester since Fall 2022. I published my first paper in December 2022 while completing my Master’s in the Roopchand lab.
Current status in graduate program/Expected graduation: Ph.D. student
Advice for prospective graduate students: Reach out to students in your program and attend GSO events!
BIO: Karen received two bachelor degrees in Chemistry and Agriculture – Human Nutrition and Food Sciences track with a minor in Biology from the University of Guam. She is interested in chronic disease prevention and management by improving dietary patterns, primarily for minority groups. As an undergraduate, she was the leader in multiple student organizations. She participated in outreach to local high schools for the Chemistry and Agriculture departments, presented in research workshops to help freshmen and sophomores interested in research, and helped coordinate the UOG First Annual CNAS STEM Conference. She participated in the Rutgers RISE program in the summer of 2020, where she worked with Dr. Nilgun Tumer to study the ribosomal interactions of Shiga toxins by analyzing surface charge differences. Since then, she has obtained her Master’s in Nutritional Sciences in May 2023 at Rutgers, studying the anti-inflammatory effects of CBD for post-menopausal women. She is now continuing as a PhD student with a research focus on cardiovascular disease management in different ethnic groups using a “Food-is-Medicine” intervention. Her hobbies include trying new cafes with friends and family, baking, crocheting, and free diving while on Guam.
Nathalie Groot
RISE Scholar: Summer 2019
Program: Ph.D. in Molecular Biosciences
Undergraduate Studies: Virginia Tech, Biological Sciences Major
Thesis Advisor: Dr. Gaëtan Barbet
Ph.D. Research Topic: Dendritic cell calcium signaling in response to sepsis
Support post Super Grad Award, other notable Awards, fellowships, publications or accomplishments: Initiative for Maximizing Student Development (IMSD) Fellowship Recipient (2021-2023), accepted abstract at American Association of Immunologists Conference 2023, accepted abstract and travel grant at FASEB Ion Channels and Transporters Inaugural Conference, member of the Child Health Institute DEI Board, executive board member of the Council of Black Graduates for two years.
Current status in graduate program/Expected graduation: 4th year Ph.D. Candidate
Advice for prospective graduate students: Choose a school that you know you can be happy at, in a location that you like, with good advisors and a healthy culture. If a school is missing any of those aspects, you’ll struggle more than you need to.
BIO: Nathalie Groot is a 4th year PhD candidate in the Barbet lab, researching calcium signaling in dendritic cells following septic infection. Advocating for equitable access to resources and DEI initiatives is her passion project besides her PhD, and in her free time she enjoys traveling, reading, and yarn crafts.
Shabree Anthony
RISE/REU Scholar: Summer 2019
Program: Ph.D. in Toxicology
Undergraduate Studies: University of the Virgin Islands with a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry and a minor in Health Science
Thesis Advisor: Pending
Ph.D. Research Topic: Pending
Support post Super Grad Award, other notable Awards, fellowships, publications or accomplishments: Pending
Current status in graduate program/Expected graduation: Ph.D. Candidate
Advice for prospective graduate students: Pending
BIO: Shabree Anthony graduated from the University of the Virgin Islands with a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry and a minor in Health Science. At her undergraduate institution, she was a part of the Researching Initiative for Scientific Enhancement (RISE) and Maximizing Access to Research Careers (MARC) programs. In the summer of 2019, she participated in both the Research-Intensive Summer Experience (RISE) and the Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) program at Rutgers University. Here, Shabree worked in the lab of her mentor, Dr. Lauren Aleksunes, aiming to assess relationships between metallothionein expression and cadmium concentrations in the human placenta. After this experience, Shabree was greatly motivated to attend Rutgers for graduate school. Her current research interests include studying neurotoxins to help further understand their physiological and pathological effects. Lastly, Shabree’s hobbies include reading and baking.
2020-21 Fellows
Natasha Ramos Padilla
Undergraduate Studies: University of Puerto Rico, Mayagüez
RISE Scholar: Summer 18
Program: Ph.D. in Environmental Sciences
Thesis Advisor: Dr. Kat Dawson
Ph.D. Research Topic: Microbial biogeochemical cycling on estuarine systems
Support post Super Grad Award, other notable Awards, fellowships, publications or accomplishments: National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship Program (NSF-GRFP). Also received an honorable mention by the Ford Foundation.
Current Status in graduate program/Expected graduation: Graduated with Masters
Advice for prospective graduate students: Prioritize finding a research advisor with whom you feel comfortable and happy
Gustavo Rios Delgado
Undergraduate Studies: University of Puerto Rico, Mayagüez
RISE/ Cellular Bioengineering REU Scholar: Summer 19
Program: Ph.D. in Molecular Biosciences
Thesis Advisor: Dr. Jeff Boyd
Ph.D. Research Topic: Gustavo is mainly interested in Immunology. Some additional research interests include infectious diseases and antibiotic resistance, the impact of the gut microbiota on the body, and the regulation of inflammatory responses.
Support post Super Grad Award, other notable Awards, fellowships, publications or accomplishments: *Pending
Current Status in graduate program/Expected graduation: Ph.D. student
Advice for prospective graduate students: *Pending
Santos Rivera-Cardona
Undergraduate Studies: University of Puerto Rico, Mayagüez
RISE Scholar: Summer 19
Program: Ph.D. in Political Science
Thesis Advisor: Dr. Jan Kubik
Ph.D. Research Topic: Santos’ main research interests are: (1) civil society, social movements, and protest politics; and (2) the relationship between politics and culture.
Support post-Super Grad Award, other notable awards, fellowships, publications or accomplishments: Paper presentation at LASA 2021 Conference in Vancouver (virtual conference) entitled “Flag Performances: Political Symbolism of Community, Resistance, and Transformation in Puerto Rico”
Current status in graduate program/Expected graduation: Third year doctoral student
Advice for prospective graduate students: These are challenging times we are all living in, and graduate school is not an easy journey, so please, do not hesitate to seek help. One does not know how many resources, support, and opportunities are available until we become vulnerable and seek help. You are not alone!
Catherine Rojas
Undergraduate Studies: Stockton University
RISE/SURF Scholar: Summer 19
Program: Joint Graduate Program in Toxicology
Thesis Advisor: Dr. Debra Laskin
Ph.D. Research Topic: Molecular and histological changes to mouse lung after acute exposure to ozone.
Support post Super Grad Award, other notable Awards, fellowships, publications or accomplishments: IMSD Fellowship
Current status in graduate program/Expected graduation: Ph.D. Student/2025
Advice for prospective graduate students: Just because you don’t see anybody like you, doesn’t mean you don’t belong. Make a path for yourself and others to follow.
Yadiel Varela Soler
Undergraduate Studies: University of Puerto Rico – Mayagüez
RISE/GET-UP REU Scholar: Summer 18
Program: Ph.D. in Chemical and Biochemical Engineering
Thesis Advisor: Dr. Charles Roth
Ph.D. Research Topic: Developing drug delivery systems for enhanced treatment of lung infections.
Support post Super Grad Award, other notable Awards, fellowships, publications or accomplishments: Also a Rutgers Presidential Fellowship recipient. Participant of Rutgers’ Biotechnology Training Program.
Current status in graduate program/Expected graduation: Ph.D. student
Advice for prospective graduate students : Ask everyone in your lab/cohort/department about the different opportunities available to graduate students. You’d be surprised with the number of programs available! While it can definitely be scary, force yourself to get involved with them and build a network.
BIO: Yadiel graduated from the University of Puerto Rico – Mayaguez with a B.S. in Chemical Engineering. During his time as an undergraduate, he participated in numerous research experiences with a focus on drug delivery systems. One of which was RISE/GET-UP in 2018. Yadiel chose to come back to Rutgers to pursue his doctoral degree in Chemical and Biochemical Engineering. In the future he plans to pursue a career in Business Development.
Navar Mercer White
Undergraduate Studies: Vassar College
RISE/Advanced Materials REU Scholar: Summer 18
Program: Ph.D. in Chemistry and Chemical Biology
Thesis Advisor: Dr. Kate Waldie
Ph.D. Research Topic: Use of Organometallics as catalystsfor renewable liquid fuel systems
Support post Super Grad Award, other notable Awards, fellowships, publications or accomplishments: Support post Super Grad: Teaching Assistant, School of Graduate Studies Graduate Assistant. Publication: Katipamula, S.; White, N. M.; Waldie, K. M. Chem Catal. 2023, 3, 100561. DOI: 10.1016/j.checat.2023.100561
Current status in graduate program/Expected graduation: Ph.D. student
Advice for prospective graduate students: Graduate school is demanding. It will require a lot form you, however you must still find a way to live a life outside of the lab. Find the time to meet people, make friends, fall in love, get married, have a kid or two. It will be hard but it will make you both a better researcher and a better person.
SUPER-Grad Associates
Zachary Clifford
Undergraduate Studies: University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC)
RISE/GET-UP REU Scholar: Summer 19
Program: Ph.D. in Chemistry and Chemical Biology
Thesis Advisor: Dr. Charles Dismukes
Ph.D. Research Topic: Zachary is interested in materials chemistry research with a focus on green energy and sustainability; catalysts for carbon dioxide reduction reaction
Support post Super Grad Award, other notable Awards, fellowships, publications or accomplishments: N/A
Current status in graduate program/Expected graduation: Graduated with Masters
Advice for prospective graduate students: Make sure that the research group you choose to join is a good fit for you. It is important to join a group that is working on projects that interest you. But, it is just as important to make sure that the PI/other group members mesh well with your personality and how you tend to operate.
Dr. Liam McDermott
Undergraduate Studies: Iowa State
RISE/GET-UP REU Scholar: Summer 19
Program: Ph.D. in Physics and Astronomy
Thesis Advisor: Dr. Sanghyuk Lee
Ph.D. Research Topic: Liam is specializing in biophysics in Dr. Sanghyuk Lee’s lab. He is currently spearheading a project to better image Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus
Support post Super Grad Award, other notable Awards, fellowships, publications or accomplishments:
Publication https://journals.aps.org/prper/abstract/10.1103/PhysRevPhysEducRes.20.010111
NSF Post Doctoral Fellowship for Stem Education
Current status in graduate program/Expected graduation: Graduated with Ph.D.
Advice for prospective graduate students: *pending
Talia Seymore
RISE/SURF Scholar: Summer 19
Program: Ph.D. in Toxicology
Undergraduate Studies: Penn State University
Thesis Advisor: Dr. Phoebe Stapleton
Ph.D. Research Topic:
Cardiovascular and reproductive health effects after inhalation exposure to nano and microparticles in rats
Support post Super Grad Award, other notable Awards, fellowships, publications or accomplishments:
- T32 Training Grant
- Phthalate exposures and placental health in animal models and humans: A systematic review. Seymore TN, Rivera-Núñez Z, Stapleton PA, Adibi JJ, Barrett ES – Toxicological Sciences, 2022
- IMSD fellowship
- Prenatal exposure to an environmentally relevant phthalate mixture disrupts testicular steroidogenesis in adult male mice. R Barakat, T Seymore, PCP Lin, CJ Park, CMJ Ko – Environmental research, 2019
Current status in graduate program/Expected graduation: Ph.D. student
Advice for prospective graduate students: Trust your process and enjoy every step of it. Although you may have doubts, think about a time when you hoped to be EXACTLY where you are now. Celebrate yourself every step of the way.
2019-20 Fellows
Emmanuel (Manny) Alvarez
RISE Scholar: Summer 17
Program: Ph.D. in Neuroscience
Undergraduate Studies:
Thesis Advisor: Dr. Anna Konova
Ph.D. Research Topic: Quantifying the formation and maintenance of optimistic beliefs in opioid use disorder
Support post Super Grad Award, other notable Awards, fellowships, publications or accomplishments:
- TRACC-RU Fellow
- University of Michigan fMRI fellow
- Primm-Singleton Scholar at the College on Problems of Drug Dependence
- Alvarez E, E, Pujji S, D, Dinzeo T, J: Cognitive Failures and the Role of Emotion in Dimensional Schizotypy: A Replication and Extension. Psychopathology 2021. doi: 10.1159/000517795
Current status in graduate program/Expected graduation: Ph.D. student
Advice for prospective graduate students: “Rutgers is vast and built on collaboration. Whatever you may be interested in, Rutgers has the lab to support it. Just ask around!”
Zachary Finkel
RISE Scholar: Summer 18
Program: Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering
Undergraduate Studies: Rowan University
Thesis Advisor: Dr. Li Cai
Ph.D. Research Topic: Safety and Efficacy Study of Gsx1 for Spinal Cord Injury
Support post Super Grad Award, other notable Awards, fellowships, publications or accomplishments:
- Finkel Z, Cai L. Diversity of adult neural stem and progenitor cells in physiology and disease. Cells. 2021. (Review Article)
- Patel M, Li Y, Anderson J, Castro-Pedrido S, Skinner R, Lei S, Finkel Z, Rodriguez B, Esteban F, Lee KB, Lyu YL, Cai L. Gsx1 promotes locomotor functional recovery after spinal cord injury. Mol Ther. 2021 Aug 4;29(8):2469-2482. doi: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2021.04.027. Epub 2021 Apr 23. PMID: 33895323.
- Finkel Z, Cai L. Linking Traumatic Brain Injury, Neural Stem and Progenitor Cells, a chapter in The Neuroscience of Traumatic Brain Injury. Elsevier. 2021. (Book Chapter)
- Patel M, Anderson J, Lei S, Finkel Z, Rodriguez B, Esteban F, Risman R, Li Y, Lee KB, Lyu YL, Cai L. Nkx6.1 enhances neural stem cell activation and attenuates glial scar formation and neuroinflammation in the adult injured spinal cord. Exp Neurol. 2021 Jul 31:113826. doi: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2021.113826. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 34343529.
Current status in graduate program/Expected graduation: Defended his Ph.D. in 2024 and now works as a R&D Associate in global development and regulatory affairs at TG therapeutics.
Advice for prospective graduate students: Find a project you’re excited about and a lab you’re comfortable in!
Dr. Robert Green-Warren
RISE Scholar: Summer 18
Program: Ph.D. in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering
Undergraduate Studies: Eastern Michigan University
Thesis Advisor: Prof. Jonathan P. Singer
Ph.D. Research Topic: Robert’s research focuses on the synthesis of ZnO for nanoimprinting metal onto polymeric surfaces with applications to flexible electronics.
Support post Super Grad Award, other notable Awards, fellowships, publications or accomplishments: *pending
Current status in graduate program/Expected graduation: Graduated with Ph.D in 2024 and now works as a lead rocket propulsion scientist for the U.S. Defense Department.
Advice for prospective graduate students: *pending
Zakiyah Henry
RISE Scholar: Summer 18
Program: Ph.D. in the Joint Graduate Program in Toxicology
Undergraduate Studies: Winston-Salem State University
Thesis Advisor: Dr. Grace Guo
Ph.D. Research Topic: The ’tissue-specific function of Farnesoid X Receptor (FXR) in the presence of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH).’
Support post Super Grad Award, other notable Awards, fellowships, publications or accomplishments: Zakiyah is also an IMSD Graduate Scholar and recently received an RO1 Diversity Supplement from the NIH-NIGMS.
Current status in graduate program/Expected graduation: Graduated with her Ph.D. in 2024 and now works as a Post Doctoral fellow at the NIEHS
Advice for prospective graduate students: Wherever you plan to spend a chunk of your life, be sure that it feels like home and that you are comfortable!” Zakiyah can truly say that she is happy and “at-home” here at Rutgers!
Stephen Mut
RISE Scholar: Summer 18
Program: Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering
RISE/Cellular Bioengineering REU Scholar: Summer 18
Program: Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering
Undergraduate Studies: Colorado School of Mines
Thesis Advisor: Dr. Maribel Vazquez
Ph.D. Research Topic: Stephen’s research focuses on the development of organotypic culture systems to study therapies for retinal regeneration
Support post Super Grad Award, other notable Awards, fellowships, publications or accomplishments:
- Funding Support: Stephen is currently an R&D Research Intern and fellow at Colgate-Palmolive Company
- Publications:
- Mut, S. R., & Vazquez, M. (2021). Commentary: Organ Cultures for Retinal Diseases. Frontiers in Neuroscience, 15.
- Vazquez, M., Pena, J. S., & Mut, S. (2020). An Ex Vivo Eye Facsimile System (EVES) to evaluate transplantation strategies for cell replacement therapy. Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science, 61(7), 795-795.
Current status in graduate program/Expected graduation: Graduated with his Masters in Biomedical Engineering in 2022 and now works at Legend Biotech as a Sr. Manufacturing Operations Associate
Advice for prospective graduate students: Make timely and lofty goals each day to excel your project, and never be afraid to ask for additional help from your advisor and thesis committee members if you need.
Joshua (J) Randolph
RISE Scholar: Summer 18
Program: Ph.D. in Women’s and Gender Studies
Undergraduate Studies: Beliot College
Thesis Advisor: *pending
Ph.D. Research Topic: J has several research interests that they wish to pursue, though issues of identity as they relate to language, popular culture, and current trends and fads are a consistent interest. More specifically, J has been continuing research from Beloit College on the use of queer astrology and occultism in contrast to queer/ed organized religion (with emphasis on the Abrahamic religions).
Support post Super Grad Award, other notable Awards, fellowships, publications or accomplishments: *pending
Current status in graduate program/Expected graduation: Graduated with Masters
Advice for prospective graduate students: *pending
2018-19 Fellows
Jenna Abyad
RISE Scholar: Summer 17
Program: Microbiology and Molecular Genetics Program
Research Topic: Jenna is interested in ribosomal interactions of Shiga toxins (Stxs). Stxs are virulence factors produced by foodborne pathogens: S. dysenteriae and E. coli. Infection with these foodborne pathogens can result in hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), which is the most common cause of acute renal failure in young children.
Current status in graduate program: Completed Master’s in Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, October 2021
Advice for prospective graduate students: Jenna wants prospective graduate students to know that Rutgers has allowed her to gain new scientific knowledge while taking part in cutting-edge research in a collaborative environment.
Angelica Barreto-Galvez
RISE Scholar: Summer 17
Undergraduate Studies: Pontifical Xavierian University in Colombia and New Jersey City University
Program: Ph.D. in Molecular Bioscience at Rutgers.
Thesis Advisor: *pending
Ph.D. Research Topic: *pending
Support post Super Grad Award, other notable Awards, fellowships, publications or accomplishments: *pending
Current status in graduate program/Expected graduation: Graduated with Ph.D. in 2023 and now works as a program manager at the NJ department of Health
Advice for prospective graduate students: *pending
Steven Clark
RiSE Scholar: Summer 17
Undergraduate Studies: Colorado School of Mines
Program: Ph.D. in Physics
Thesis Advisor: Dr. Eva Halkiadakis
Ph.D. Research Topic: Steven is a member of the Compact Muon Solenoid (CMS) Collaboration. CMS is a particle detector located at the Large Hadron Collider in Geneva, Switzerland. His project, which will eventually turn into his thesis, involves using Machine Learning to improve the way we detect photons and other particlesMore information about Steven and his research can be read at stevenvclark.com.
Support post Super Grad Award, other notable Awards, fellowships, publications or accomplishments: Steven was fortunate to receive the National Science Foundation Graduate Fellowship after his first year which has allowed him to explore some outreach opportunities, such as instructing high-school students on the basics of Particle Physics during the Rutgers QuarkNet program.
Current status in graduate program/Expected graduation: Graduated with Ph.D. and has accepted a position as a Corps Member with Teach for America
Advice for prospective graduate students: Don’t forget to have fun! It’s important to remember to invest in yourself and still participate in hobbies you enjoy, so don’t be afraid to turn off the computer and go do something for yourself!
Jacqueline Saenz
RiSE/ Cellular Bioengineering Scholar: Summer 15
Program: Molecular Biosciences- Cell and Developmental Biology
Undergraduate Studies: California State University-Northridge
Thesis Advisor: Pingyue Pan
Ph.D. Research Topic: Parkinson’s disease gene, synaptojanin1, regulates dopamine neuron function.
Support post Super Grad Award, other notable Awards, fellowships, publications or accomplishments: Publications:
• Saenz,J., Khezerlou,E., Aggarwal,M., Shaikh,A., Ganti,N., Herborg,F., Pan,P. Parkinson’s disease gene, Synaptojanin1, dysregulates the surface maintenance of the dopamine transporter. npj Parkinsons Dis. 10, 148 (2024)
• Mejaes,J.I., Saenz,J., O’Brien,C., Rozario,S., Pizzano,C., Pan,P., Barker,D.J. The effect of the Synaptojanin1 gene mutation on reward processing and motivational behavior. Front Behav Neurosci. 18: 1359225. (2024)
• Saenz, J, Zhou,X., Barker,D.J., DiCicco-Bloom,E., Pan,P. Cocaine-regulated trafficking of dopamine transporters in cultured neurons revealed by a pH sensitive reporter. iScience 26, 105782. (2023)
• Khezerlou,E., Saenz,J., Prakash,S.S., Pan,P. Live-neuron imaging analysis of basal surface fraction and dynamic availability of the dopamine transporter using DAT-pHluorin. (submitted under review)
• Uppal, S.K., Uhlendorf, T.L., Nuryyev, R.L., Saenz, J., Shanmugam, M., Ochoa, J., Trigt, W.V., Malone, C.S., Julian, A.P., Kopyov, O., Kopyov, A., Cohen, R.W. Human neural progenitor cells ameliorate NMDA-induced hippocampal degeneration and related functional deficits. AIMS Medical Science, 8(3): 252-268. (2021)
• Pan, P.*, Sheehan,P., Wang,Q., Zhu,X., Zhang,Y., Choi,I., Xianting Li, Saenz, J., Zhu,J., Wang,J., Gaamouch,F.E., Zhu,L., Cai,D. and Yue,Z.*. Synj1 haploinsufficiency causes dopamine neuron vulnerability and alpha-synuclein accumulation in mice. Hum Mol Genet, 2020. 29(14): p. 2300-2312. (2020)
• Munoz, A. M. A. and Faustino, A. I. R. Why Aren’t There More Genetic Rat Models of Neurological Diseases? In W.M. Tierney, A.J.J. Lemus, C.T. Lao, B.A. Ortega, M. Olmos, J. Saenz, T.L. Uhlendorf and R.W. Cohen (Eds.), Rattus Norvegicus: A Review and Directions for Research, pp.1-33, Nova Science Publishers. (2019)
HONORS, AWARDS AND FELLOWSHIPS:
• Andrew Giovanni, PhD Neuroscience Travel Award 2023
• Society for Advancing Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science (SACNAS) Travel Scholarship 2023
• Scientist Mentoring & Diversity Program for Biotechnology (SMDP Biotech) 2023-2024
• Rutgers Brain Health Institute Trainee Travel Award 2022-2023
Current status in graduate program/Expected graduation: 7th Year about to defend in Novemeber
Advice for prospective graduate students: Choose your mentor and lab wisely. While you may have specific ideas about the type of research you want to pursue, it’s important not to focus solely on the research itself when selecting your thesis lab. Speak with the current people in the lab to gain a better understanding of what to expect. This part of your journey (grad school) is primarily about the training you receive to become a better thinker. You can concentrate on your research interests later, during a postdoctoral position if you choose. While there may not be a perfect mentor or mentee, having a strong relationship that aligns with each other’s working styles can significantly enhance the mentoring experience. This relationship can ultimately make or break the effectiveness of the mentorship and your graduate school expreiince as a whole.
BIO: Jacqueline (Jackie) Saenz is a proud first-generation Chicana neuroscientist. She obtained her B.S. in Biotechnology and Cellular and Molecular Biology at California State University, Northridge (CSUN). Currently she is in her 7th year as a Ph.D. student at Rutgers University and will be defending in November 2024. Her research focuses on investigating the effects of Synaptojanin1 (SYNJ1) deficiency and the cell type-specific dysfunction in Parkinson’s Disease. She proposed to specifically study how the Parkinson’s risk gene, SYNJ1, regulates basal level surface dopamine transporter expression in midbrain neurons. While she is still not entirely sure of what she wants to do exactly she will pursue a career in industry after grad school.
When she is not in the lab doing experiments, she takes joy in the arts such as playing her guitar and drawing/painting. She also enjoys natures beauty and takes part in hiking on the weekends.
Maricely Ramirez-Hernandez
RiSE Scholar: Summer 17
Undergraduate Studies: California State University-Northridge
Program: Ph.D. in Chemical and Biochemical Engineering
Thesis Advisor: Prof. Tewodros Asefa
Ph.D. Research Topic: Mesoporous materials for biofilm mitigation and environmental remediation
Support post Super Grad Award, other notable Awards, fellowships, publications or accomplishments: 2019 GEM Associate Fellowship and a TechAdvance grant she helped co-author to bring her thesis research forward.
Current status in graduate program/Expected graduation: Graduated with Ph.D. in 2024 and is now an Innovation and Commercialization Associate at Argonne National Lab
Advice for prospective graduate students: Get to know what professors at Rutgers around you do and you can possibly collaborate. I’ve had great discussions with different professors about what approach I can take towards my research.
Caitlyn Tobita
RiSE Scholar: Summer 16
Undergraduate Studies: Chaminade University
Program: Ph.D. in Chemistry and Chemical Biology
Thesis Advisor: Dr. Jean Baum
Ph.D. Research Topic: Caitlyn is interested in collagen structure, interactions, and dynamics. Her current work focuses on studying collagen fibrils produced by mammalian cells via solid state NMR in order to study the fibril surface dynamics in the context of the extracellular matrix.
Support post Super Grad Award, other notable Awards, fellowships, publications or accomplishments: Since joining Rutgers, she has been an author on a paper regarding collagen interactions with a protein B-2m and received an NSF-GRFP honorable mention.
Current status in graduate program/Expected graduation: Ph.D. candidate
Advice for prospective graduate students: Find mentors and friends that you feel supported by—ones that will push you to be better, but can also understand personal circumstances.
Kurt Wagner
RiSE/Cellular Bioengineering REU Scholar: Summer 16
Undergraduate Studies: Rowan University
Program: Biomedical Engineering
Support post Super Grad Award, other notable Awards, fellowships, publications or accomplishments: *pending
Current status in graduate program/Expected graduation: Graduated with a Masters in 2020 and is now a contract test engineer at Medtronic
Advice for prospective graduate students: *pending
