Thesis Thursday: Recent Episodes
Bridgitte Thum
The University of Arizona’s Department of Soil, Water and Environmental Science and the Undergraduate Biology Research Program (UBRP) have partnered with KXCI 91.3 to produce “Thesis Thursday,” a weekly program featuring student researchers talking about the work they are doing in various labs at the University. They also get a chance to share their music and interests that motivate them.
Hello! My name is Ciara Himes and I'm a rising junior majoring in molecular and cellular biology, with minors in astrobiology and biochemistry. I have been working in the Baltrus lab for about a year now, researching horizontal gene transfer in megaplasmids. Not much is known about the horizontal transfer of certain genes in the family of megaplasmids that I'm studying, so my research aims to uncover the importance of one of these genes and how deleting it from the megaplasmid might affect the host's phenotype. Working in the Baltrus lab and being in the Undergraduate Biology Research Program has taught me valuable skills in conducting research and in communication. When I'm not in the lab, I like to have fun with my friends and explore Tucson. On my own, I like to read (usually Sci-Fi), make my own jewelry, or hang out at the Scented Leaf on East University.
Hello! My name is Esha Mathur. I am a rising junior at the University of Arizona. I am majoring in Biology with an emphasis in Biomedical Sciences, and minoring in Pharmaceutical Sciences. Since the summer of 2022, I have been working with Dr. Julie Armin to understand how policies affect cancer care access for individuals with Intellectual or Developmental Disabilities (IDD). My time in Dr. Armin’s lab inspired me to do my part to aid this marginalized community. Last year, I began working with autistic children as a behavior technician. I have gotten to see first-hand the challenges individuals with IDD and their families face. I hope to continue to make a positive difference in the IDD community both in and outside of the lab! In my free time, I love exploring Tucson’s hiking trails with my dog, Buddy. My favorite is Tanque Verde Falls, where there are almost always pools of water to enjoy! I also love making jewelry. You can often catch me making a pair of earrings at a local coffee spot!
My name is Veronica Hode, a Biochemistry major at the University of Arizona. It's been almost a year now since I joined the Porreca and Navratilova lab through UBRP. Our lab focuses on understanding the factors that bring about pain, with emphasis on neuropathic pain, visceral pain, and pelvic pain. We particularly focus on understanding the prevalence of pain in females because women are prone to experiencing pain more often than men. The project I work on focuses on elucidating the role of prolactin in endometriosis-associated pain. Endometriosis affects women in the reproductive age group and can cause severe pelvic pain. Figuring out the part that prolactin plays in endometriosis-associated pain may help in developing treatment solutions for women affected by this condition. When I am not in the lab, I enjoy staying home, watching various tv shows, reading books and webtoons, cooking, and dancing with my sister.
My name is Allan Paxson. I am of the Hopi and White Mountain Apache Native American tribes in Northern and Eastern Arizona, respectively. I am currently in my third year at the University of Arizona majoring in Physiology and Medical Sciences with a minor in Educational Psychology. My current research project is within the Cress Lab at the University of Arizona Cancer Center. Right now, I am working on identifying compounds that will eradicate smooth muscle-invasive tumor cells using cell viability assays. In my free time, I enjoy working with student-athletes at the Kasser Sports Medicine Center as an Athletic Training Technician and enjoy trying new art techniques such as pottery, drawing, painting, and writing. Also, I can’t forget to mention that my other favorite activity is trying out local Tucson coffee shops and restaurants #supportlocal!
Hello! My name is David Jurkowitz and I am a junior studying biochemistry and Hebrew. I work in the Wheeler lab, which applies computational biology tools to genomics, biological sequence annotation, and drug discovery. My current project looks at computationally predicting binding pockets in proteins, which is done through comparing measurements of amino acid sequence conservation with known or predicted structural data. Through my lab, I have learned to code in Python, manipulate protein structures with pymol, and run scripts on the university's high performance computing cluster. When not in classes or lab, I am often at the Hillel building or Olami house, two of the Jewish centers on campus, on a hike or bike ride, or planting trees around the city with Tucson Clean and Beautiful.
My name is Ariel Cheng and I am a junior majoring in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology with a minor in Theater. I have been working with Dr. Jana U'Ren at the BIO5 institute on campus for almost a year now. With her lab, I have been able to travel to Toolik Field Station, an isolated research station in Alaska, where I conducted fieldwork for my independent project! I am currently working on identifying the fungal community found in Alaskan wild berries. These berries benefit both indigenous people and native wildlife. With my project, I hope to raise more awareness about how these communities may or may not protect these berries against climate change. When I'm not conducting research, I am out and about exploring the world around me! Currently, my hobbies consist of mushroom scavenging, paleontology, modeling and acting!
Hello! My name is Christopher Sterzinar, and I am a Senior majoring in Neuroscience and Cognitive Science at the University of Arizona. I work in Dr. Carol Barnes' lab, where we focus on understanding how the brain changes across the course of aging and how this influences the processes of learning and memory. My current project involves identifying the age-related differences in brain activity between young and old rats as they complete a cognitive task. In my time outside of the lab, I enjoy baking, drawing, and hanging out and chatting with friends. Additionally, I organize gaming tournaments for individuals across Arizona!
Hi there, my name is Ryan Bowser and I'm currently an undergraduate studying Molecular and Cellular Biology, with a minor in Biochemistry. I joined Dr. Carol Gregorio's lab through the Undergraduate Biology Research Program (UBRP), and I immediately fell in love with our research! The Gregorio lab studies interactions of cardiac muscle proteins such as leiomodin (Lmod), to better understand the regulation of muscle contractions. Although it can sound complicated, we are really just trying to better understand how our hearts work, so we can help more people with cardiovascular disease. Outside of the lab, I enjoy running, baking sourdough bread, and coding fun projects with Python!
My name is Alexis Henderson, and I am a Junior majoring in Biomedical Engineering at the University of Arizona. On campus, I volunteer in the Arizona Simulation Technology and Education Center (ASTEC), work as an Athletic Training Technician with McKale Center, and perform research. I have been researching biomechanics with Dr. Kristen Renner for over a year, and participated in the Undergraduate Biology Research Program through her lab during the past summer. In the lab, I use motion capture to gather kinetic and kinematic data on human movement, which can then be analyzed and applied to predict injury risk. My main focus is applying this knowledge to athletes, as my goal is to enter an MD/PhD program to become an orthopedic surgeon with a sports medicine emphasis. This summer, I will be researching abroad in Canada with the BRAVO program, investigating injuries in disc golf athletes, and how studying their full-body mechanics can prevent further damage. I am very excited to learn more about the field of sports medicine and apply my skills as a future surgeon and researcher to help athletes prevent and recover from injuries.
My name is Summer Blunk and I am a current senior undergraduate in the department of molecular and cellular biology. I am originally from Southern California and moved to Tucson for college. Some of my hobbies include cooking, dirt bike riding, off roading and playing video games. I originally came to UA as a biomedical engineering major, but within my first year I realized I was much more interested in Biology than the engineering. I changed my major to MCB and have been excited about Biology ever since. I currently work in the Nagy lab on campus and we are most interested in developmental biology and evolution. I am currently applying to graduate schools and have three interviews coming up! I am very excited to continue my career as a scientist.
Hello, my name is Jacqueline Larson and I am currently a junior majoring in Public Health with a minor in Studio Art. In high school, I had a lot of fun planning and participating in community events in my hometown Nogales, Arizona. I designed and helped paint a mural in a newly built community center in Winchester Heights, and collaborated with the local art gallery at an event my high school healthcare club hosted that’s purpose was to improve communication between teens and their parents. Through this, I realized that I wanted to pursue a career in which I would help improve the lives of others and that art expression is a way to bring a community together, so my goal is to be able to combine my love for art with public health. I joined UBRP in the summer of 2022 and it has been an adventure of being exposed to and learning many different things. I am part of EHS-TRUE and joined Dr. Beamer’s lab focusing on her EPA Soil and Dust Ingestion in children study where we complete surveys with parents of children between the ages of 6 months to 6 years to determine how much soil and dust is ingested during children’s natural play. We also complete in-house visits where we set up audio and visual recording for the child’s natural playtime and then we also collect an initial and final hand rinse, dust samples, vacuum sock sample, soil samples, and hand tracing to measure the surface area of the child’s hands. I am also working on my own project of finding a standardized mouth surface area among adults. In my free time I enjoy reading fictional books, watching movies, and spending time with loved ones.
Tomasz Wlodarczyk is a PhD student pursuing a degree in Environmental Science at the University of Arizona with a minor in Renewable Natural Resources. His research focuses on the identification and study of native plant species that accumulate and tolerate heavy metals. In his PhD program, Tomasz is collaborating with researchers from The French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS) at the intersection of phytoremediation and green chemistry. He also conducts research within the Center for Environmentally Sustainable Mining at the University of Arizona (CESM) and is a recipient of the Southern Arizona Environmental Management Society (SAEMS) scholarship.
Hi! My name is Suetmui (“Suit-moi”) Yu, and I am a junior majoring in Physiology at The University of Arizona. I joined Dr. Ningning Zhao’s lab at the beginning of the Spring 2021 semester. Since then, I have been working in the Zhao lab to study the metabolism and
homeostatic regulation of manganese–a nutrient that is essential for life. My current project involves using an animal model to understand how changing the levels of manganese intake might alter the expression of a manganese transport protein in the body. Results from this project
may give a better understanding of this protein’s function and how a defect in this protein leads to dysregulated manganese metabolism. In my free time, I enjoy listening to music, reading books, watching Asian dramas, and working on projects for The TEA Proposal (a community
organization that aims to help high school students from underserved areas gain access to resources).
The University of Arizona’s Undergraduate Biology Research Program (UBRP) is an apprenticeship-style training program that teaches students the conduct of scientific research by pairing them with faculty in the biological sciences. Students are paid, to help support them through college, and they present their research findings at the annual UBRP Conference, which will be held this year on Saturday, January 21, 2023 in person, on campus. For details and to RSVP, please visit https://ubrp.arizona.edu/.
UBRP Director Jennifer Cubeta has always found beauty and wonder in the natural world around her. As a first-generation college student, Jennifer completed a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Arizona in General Biology, as well as one in Science Education, which has enabled her to share her excitement about biology with others as an educator. Jennifer taught seventh-grade life science, served as an academic advisor for the Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology and was originally introduced to UBRP as an undergraduate participant. Jennifer joined the program as Assistant Director in 2013, became Director of UBRP in January 2018, and continues to enjoy helping college students learn science through the conduct of biological research. In her spare time, Jennifer loves to spend time with her family, cook, travel, and play music at her church.
My name is Jessika Mesa and I am a Graduate student in the Environmental Science department. I am extremely passionate about science communication and exploring environmental issues. I cannot wait to complete my research on Project Harvest and explore more opportunities in my career field.
The soil shop @ Project Harvest
“Hi everyone, my name is Cristobal, a senior at The University of Arizona studying Physiology and Medical Sciences. Although I was born in Tucson, I spent most of my childhood in Oaxaca, Mexico with its unique environment which stimulated my curiosity and led me to pursue research in Environmental Health. Fortunately, while at the UofA I was able to join Dr. Paloma Beamer’s lab where we study the environmental effect of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC’s) released from Beauty Salons and Mechanic Shops in Tucson, Az. While at the university, my involvement in her lab and being part of the MexZona organization have cemented my ideas of pursuing a career in Medicine”
Hi! My name is Jaeman Kim, and I am a junior at the University of Arizona studying Physiology and Medical Sciences. I joined Dr. Kuhns’ lab in the Immunobiology Department in May 2022 through the Undergraduate Biology Research Program where I am currently working on an assay that helps identify T-cells via their interactions with peptide-specific major histocompatibility complexes (pMHCs) with the hopes of being able to provide a more effective way of identifying T-cells than the widely used tetramer assay. Outside of research, I am also involved in the Pre-Health Asian Pacific American Medical Student Association as its Treasurer, and our club provides pre-health opportunities for undergraduates as well as advocating for Asian cultural awareness. During my free time, I enjoy spending time with friends, playing games, and singing my lungs out in the car.
Hi, my name is Sun Woo Kim and I’m a junior this year majoring in Physiology as well as Molecular and Cellular Biology with minors in Biochemistry and Emergency Medical Services. I am currently in a behavioral neurophysiology lab with Dr. Gothard. We are studying brain development during adolescence by tracking behavior, hormonal, and physiological changes in Macaca mulatta. Some of the questions that I’m asking are: how much are they willing to wait for a bigger reward? How much are they willing to be generous to others? How do their impulses and prosocial behavior change during adolescence? In my free time, I like to play clarinet and ukulele and make a vlog of my day! I also love star gazing and camping!
Kira Zeider is a Tucson native who obtained double bachelor’s degrees in chemical and environmental engineering at the University of Arizona (UA) and then continued into the UA’s chemical engineering graduate program, where she is a third-year doctoral student. She has been selected as a Herbold Fellow, Richard A. Harvill Fellow, and Superfund Research Training Core Trainee for her multi-disciplinary research in aerosol-cloud-meteorology interactions and mining impacts on local communities. Her 2021 community science publication on utilizing plant leaves as low-cost air quality monitors was selected as one of 35 NIEHS Papers of the Year.
Hi my name is Will Peterson! I’m a proud Tucson local born and raised up in the Foothills. I spent my first year of college at the University of Wisconsin-Madison where I realized I can’t stand the cold and transferred back home to the U of A. I am now in my fourth year here at the university studying Biomedical Science in the College of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology with a minor in Applied Biotechnology. I was super fortunate to join the Sutphin Lab in early 2021 where we use the model organism C. elegans to study the aging process and potential genetic and pharmaceutical interventions to delay the onset of the aging process. Outside of the lab I recently began working with KEYS research program recruitment through the BIO5 ambassadors internship to get Arizona high schoolers involved in biological research. I like to spend my free time hanging out with my dog Leo, cheering on the Packers and Bucks, and training for my first half-marathon in December!
I am currently in my second year studying Animal Sciences at the U of A. I was born and lived in Globe, Arizona before I moved to Tempe, Arizona and finally moved to Tucson to study at the U of A. I enjoy staying active and connecting with my family, and I have the best guinea pig named Jack.
Sarrah is a 4th year PhD student in Dr. Xinxin (pronounced shin-shin) Ding’s lab in the College of Pharmacy’s Pharmacology and Toxicology program. Before starting her PhD, Sarrah worked in crime laboratories as a board-certified forensic toxicologist for almost 10 years. In her spare time she is an avid disability advocate and enjoys being outdoors with her pitbull Orfie.
Hey! My name is Nicole Carmiol, and I’m a Senior at the U of A, majoring in Neuroscience & Cognitive Science. I’ve also got interests in Molecular & Cellular Biology and Bioinformatics, which, luckily, is the type of work I get to do in the Capaldi Lab. For a little over a year now, I’ve been studying a cell signaling system called the Protein Kinase A pathway, and we’re looking at how it integrates nutrient inputs to produce specific signaling outputs. When I’m not experimenting in the lab, you can usually find me experimenting with new recipes at home— I love to cook and share what I make. Aside from that, I enjoy road trips, exploring new places around town, and spending time with my family and friends.
My name is Hrithik Aghav, and I am a senior at the University of Arizona majoring in aerospace engineering and mathematics. I have been working in Dr. Laura Miller’s biological fluid dynamics lab since my sophomore year and have been investigating the flight mechanisms employed by the smallest insects. These insects flap their wings in an unusual manner and have peculiar wing structures that are not observed in their larger counterparts. I utilize computer simulations of airflow around their wings to try and explain the presence of these unusual flight features. I intend to pursue a Ph.D. in aeronautics and become a scientist in the defense sector. My hobbies include playing guitar, reading detective novels, and playing video games.
Hi, my name is Amy Fan; born in Canada, I moved with my family to Chandler where I learned to acclimate to the Arizona heat. I am a UA senior double majoring in Molecular Cellular Biology and Statistics Data Science with a minor in musical performance. As an undergraduate researcher, I work in the Gutenkunst lab studying mathematical models inferring recombination rates. Canonical models operate under the assumptions of neutrality, but in real life, we have plenty of mutations that are better or worse for us…So considering these is a must! Through my two years at UBRP, I have been fortunate enough to work in two different labs. As an undergraduate in the Gregorio Lab, I studied neonatal heart disease at a molecular level. Dr. Gregorio recognized my fascination with big data and supported my transition into a computational lab, which led me to the Gutenkunst Lab the following year. I am so grateful for my experience in UBRP which has opened me up to the world of computational biology, something I had not considered as Molecular Biology Major when I first joined as a sophomore. I am currently pursuing a Statistics research in graduate school and studying computational systems of biology. Outside of university, I enjoy watching movies with friends, running, and songwriting about the human experience. As co-president of Music and Medicine Club at the university, I also perform with fellow musicians at local clinics and hospitals.
I am an international student from Bangladesh. I have spent over 15 years of my life in Oman and Saudi Arabia. I am currently a senior studying Chemistry, Molecular and Cellular Biology, and Bioinformatics with a minor in Computer Science. Throughout my three years at U of A, I have worked in a few different labs and switched around different jobs. The current lab I am working in is in the CBC department. We are working with a molecule found in your eyes. In our lab, we are studying its activation. Outside the lab, I work as a Global Ambassador where I organize events and help international students make Tucson their new home. My other long time work includes tutoring at SALT. My hobbies include playing board games (especially Catan), painting, spending time with my puppy, and trying food from around the world!
Today’s episode is a little different. We are talking with Marisa Lester about Thesis Thursday, how it is beneficial to students and listeners, and why it is such an important part of what we do here at KXCI community radio.
Hi! My name is Meiven Yang, and I am a rising junior at the University of Arizona majoring in Bioinformatics and Biochemistry. I have been working in Dr. Goodrum’s lab since Summer of 2021, where we study Human Cytomegalovirus (HCMV). HCMV contributes to mortality among the immunocompromised and birth defects among newborns; there are currently limited therapies and no existing vaccines against the virus. My project focuses on mapping protein-protein interactions relative to the UL136 gene, which contributes to the regulation of viral latency and reactivation. After graduation, I am hoping to either work in industry or attend graduate school. During my free time, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, working out, and painting.
Processed with VSCO with m5 preset
Hi! My name is Chloe Park, and I am a Biochemistry major entering my Junior year at the University of Arizona. I have been working in the Koshy lab for just over a year. In our lab, we study the common human parasite, Toxoplasma gondii, and specifically its unique mechanism to avoid the brain’s complicated immune system and its ability to persist in the mammalian brain for a life-long period. My current project involves trying to figure out which genes are responsible for playing a role in the parasite’s ability to encyst in which they convert into a semi-dormant phase. The ultimate goal is to improve treatments for patients with symptomatic toxoplasmosis and to better understand the complicated immune system of our brain. Through our studies, we might even be able to provide new insights into various other neurodegenerative diseases such as Multiple Sclerosis and Alzheimer’s disease. In the future, I hope to continue studying the fascinating brain by pursuing my career path as a physician-scientist!
In my free time, I love to explore new food places with my friends, and working out has always been a helpful way to relieve stress. Also, I recently got into knitting while watching Netflix and plan on donating 100 chemo-caps by the end of this year
My name is Hyeon Seung Lee, and I am a senior at the University of Arizona majoring in Physiology and Medical Sciences with a minor in Biochemistry. I have been a member of Dr. Chang’s research lab for almost 3 years now, starting since November of 2019 as a freshman volunteer. Our lab focuses on studying the underlying mechanisms of chronic sinusitis and its associated virus called rhinovirus, the most frequent cause of the common cold. Outside of lab work, I enjoy reading novels, watching TV shows and movies, and playing games. I am also a huge foodie, so I like to go to restaurants and try new foods, or if I have the opportunity, make them myself. My favorite foods include charcuterie (meat and cheese) boards, Korean stews, and barbeque.
Hi! My name is Chloe and I am a junior at the University of Arizona. I am majoring in Physiology and Molecular and Cellular Biology, with minors in Biochemistry and Leadership Studies. I have been working in Dr. Bhattacharya’s immunobiology lab for a year now, working on determining the specific functions of solute carrier proteins with the hopes of identifying why some plasma cells live longer than others! After graduation, I plan to attend graduate school and work towards a Ph.D. in immunology. In my free time, I like to read, roller skate, and try out new baking recipes!
My name is Advait and I’m a recent Molecular Biology graduate, and currently in the Accelerated Masters Program (AMP). For the past 3 years, I’ve worked in the Campos Lab at the Bio5 institute, where we study Human Papillomavirus (HPV)— the leading cause of ~90% of cervical cancer cases. My current research projects involve the anti-viral enzyme known as cGAS (cyclic GMP-AMP synthase) that is a DNA sensor which binds DNA and stimulates an immune response. It’s a very cool enzyme, and I hope to figure out how HPV is stifling its function because we have some evidence suggesting that.
In my spare time, I love to play soccer, but also recently got into basketball (since no one plays soccer in AZ in the summer).
My name is Amal Anilkumar, and I am a rising senior at the University of Arizona majoring in Physiology and Medical Sciences with a minor in Biochemistry. I have been working in the Goldman Laboratory in the Sarver Heart Center for over two years, where we assess chronic heart failure in swine and mouse models. I am involved in several projects within our lab, most of which revolve around the utilization of imaging techniques such as MRI to assess parameters such as cardiac wall strain and wall stress. Some of my other involvements include the Senate of the Association of Students of the University of Arizona (ASUA), Alpha Epsilon Delta pre-professional health, the Department of Physiology Peer Mentor System, U Arizona Physiology Ambassadors, and the SPARCC Concussion Clinic.
I am a Junior at the U of A studying Microbiology. I chose this major because I am really interested in the wide spectrum of pathogens and how they work to evade the body’s immune system. I am originally from Charlotte, North Carolina and moved to Tucson with my family 8 years ago. I really miss the east coast and try to visit every summer. I really like to listen to jazz and was in a jazz band in high school. In my free time I like to play the piano, make music, and read comics. One of my favorite comics is Morning Glories as well as Prodigy. One of my favorite movies is The Lighthouse which is an eerie horror starring Robert Pattinson and Willem Dafoe. Willem Dafoe is probably one of my favorite actors.
Benjamin Karls is a 1st year PhD Student in Katerina Dontsova’s Lab at Biosphere 2 studying the fate and transport of insensitive munitions (IM) explosive compounds in the soil and the water. Ben moved to Tucson to fulfill his undergraduate degree here at the University of Arizona where he received a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science with a Physical and Chemical Dynamic emphasis and then decided to continue his education and pursue a doctoral degree. When not working, Ben fills his time volunteering with local Tucson organizations, watching shows and movies, enjoying a good book, or trying different local restaurants in the area.
My name is Caleb Seekins and I am a Biochemistry major entering my Junior year at the University of Arizona. I work in the Streicher lab in the department of pharmacology where we study opioids and opioid signaling pathways. My current project is on researching pathways involved in intermittent fasting and how it may help increase the efficacy of opioids. I hope that my research will aid in the production of opioids that are more effective while being less addictive! During my free time, I like to play basketball, go biking, and cook new foods. Once I graduate my goal is to go to medical school!
My name is Harvey, and I am a rising junior at the University of Arizona. I am majoring in Molecular and Cellular Biology, and looking to add a minor in both Biochemistry and Fine Arts. I have been working in Dr. Lisa Nagy’s lab for almost a year and a half studying beetle segmentation regulation in Tribolium castaneum. Drosophila melanogaster has long been used as a model species, but segments differently from most other arthropods. By studying Tribolium castaneum, we will gain novel insight into how most arthropods are designed. In my spare time I enjoy hiking in the desert, creating art, and being on the UA Roller Derby team.
Xander is a high school senior and researcher at the University of Arizona S.T.A.R. Lab. He has studied in the Palanivelu Lab with Dr. Cedar Warman for the last two years. Centered around discovering stress-tolerant crops, his studies have included mRNA transcript analyses of incompatible tomato crosses and tomato pollen tube growth under heat stress. Xander received first place at both regional and state competitions and won 3rd place in Plant Sciences at the 2022 Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF). Besides research, Xander teaches chemistry, plays violin with the Tucson Philharmonia Youth Orchestra, and enjoys mountain biking in the Tortolita Mountains. Xander plans to study biomedical engineering at Duke University in the fall.
Ferris is studying Physiology and Medical Sciences at the University of Arizona, and is a trainee with the Native American Cancer Prevention (NACP) program in Dr. Jennifer W. Bea’s research lab. He also works as a medical scribe at Oro Valley Hospital’s emergency department. He is originally from Mesa, Arizona, and plans to apply to medical school in the near future. In his spare time, he enjoys hiking different trails in Arizona, exploring new restaurants, visiting museums, and attending sporting events.
NACP summer internship, Dr. Jennifer Bea and student Ferris Saad
Elizabeth is a super senior at The University of Arizona, majoring in Biomedical Sciences with a minor in Psychology. She’s been working in the Ronaldson Lab for a year, assisting with research into ischemic stroke and the effects of Acetaminophen on the blood-brain barrier, which she greatly enjoys. After Elizabeth graduates in August, she’ll be starting a doctoral program in the ABBS program at the University of Arizona, where she plans on pursuing her PhD in Cellular and Molecular Medicine. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her husband and their 7 rescue pets, playing video games, and enjoying all that Tucson has to offer.
Esteban is a junior at the University of Arizona studying Physiology and Medical Sciences with a minor in Health and Human Values. Esteban is from Rio Rico, Arizona. Outside of his research, you can find Esteban acting as the Director of Finance of Street Medicine Tucson, is one of the founders of the Health and Human Values Club, a volunteer at the ASTEC Lab, and an intern with Tucson Collaborative Community Care (TC-3). In his free time, he enjoys swimming, spending time with friends, playing chess, and exploring the outdoors.
Geffre, a Tempe native, is a UA junior pursuing a double-major in Biochemistry and Molecular Cellular Biology. As an undergraduate researcher at the Meredith Lab, Parker is a part of the NSF Signals in the Soil project. She currently works on VOC data analysis, novel sensor testing, and various support roles. After joining UBRP in Spring 2020, Parker believes that undertaking research, especially in the unique field of environmental science, has been an invaluable experience. Microbial and soil fingerprinting has been an especially exciting topic for her to jump into. But more importantly, Parker loves how her research has changed her perspective on the role of the world’s smallest life. Currently, she plans on taking her B.S. degree into an adjacent science-policy field – like criminal forensics. Outside of university, she enjoys adventuring, drawing, and studying British history. Parker is a National Hispanic Scholar, a member of WAESO, and is passionate about learning how science impacts our daily lives.
My name is Maile McSwain, I am a junior at the University of Arizona, and I am majoring in Physiology and Medical sciences and minoring in Studio Art and Astrobiology. I am currently apart of EHS-TRUE which is a branch in UBRP and have been working in Dr. Zelieann R. Craig’s lab for two years. The lab focused on female reproductive toxicology. I also have worked at Campus Recreation since I was a freshman. After my undergraduate time here at the University of Arizona I want to attend a MD/PhD program and specialize my PhD in toxicology. At this point I believe I want to continue into medicine focusing on female reproductive health and become an OB/GYN.
Florian Hafner is a student in linguistics and speech & hearing, graduating with his Ph.D. in May 2022. While he has done research on “be like,” pronunciation education, and phonological awareness, his main passion is teaching. He’s been a teaching assistant and instructor for a wide variety of linguistic courses as well as statistics for in-person and online (synchronously & asynchronously) and plans to become a future instructor.
My name is Kayla Reddy. I am an undergraduate student in my junior year, and am majoring in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology with a minor in Marine Science. I have been working in Todd Schlenke’s lab researching fruit flies and the parasitoid wasps that target them. Specifically, I have been working on a project studying how the chemical acetic acid affects the relationship between the two. I am aiming for a career in conservation biology and science communication. Outside of the lab I enjoy reading and writing, singing, and practicing martial arts.
I’m currently a graduate student & NSF Indige-FEWSS trainee pursuing my master’s in Agriculture Education at the University of Arizona, located on occupied Tohono O’odham and Pascua Yaqui Lands. My thesis work involves continuing to indigenize & decolonialize farm-to-school curriculum with the Service to All Relations (STAR) School in Leupp, AZ. I am passionate about working in solidarity with communities living in food apartheids created by settler colonialism in the United States. My goal is to promote food justice & food sovereignty movements to increase access to healthy, culturally-appropriate foods.
Hi! My name is Elizabeth Le and I am an undergraduate working in the Doyle lab studying neuroprotectants and the mechanisms of strokes. Currently, there is no medicine clinically used to treat inflammation of the brain weeks post-stroke, so I believe my work is very important! Outside of the lab, I am an honors student studying Physiology and Medical Sciences and I also have finished a Biochemistry and Spanish minor. I hope to attend medical school and gain enough experience and credibility to open and run my own pediatrics clinic. In my free time, I love to cook different types of food from Italian to Indian food and my favorite part is eating it!
My name is Aryatara Shakya. I’m an International student from Nepal currently pursuing my PhD at the University of Arizona. My research involves studying the antioxidant protein NRF2 under the mentorship of Dr. Donna Zhang in the Dept. of Pharmacology and Toxicology
Hello! My name is Shelby Herrick. I am a junior at the University of Arizona pursuing a BSHS in Physiology and Medical Sciences with a minor in Biochemistry. With the help of the EHS-TRUE program, I am fortunate to work in Dr. Yin Chen’s lab under the department of Pharmacology and Toxicology. Our lab focuses on researching environmental toxins that affect the lungs in an effort to identify novel targets that can be used for drug development.
Outside of research, I have leadership roles in two other clubs, Bluechip Leadership and UA Physiology club. Being active in the UA and Tucson communities is a big passion of mine; Staying active in the community has allowed me to feel connected with my peers and acknowledge the current issues our Tucson community faces. On weekends you can often find me volunteering with hospice patients or holding a philanthropy event! Other passions of mine are travel, botany, and classic cars!
Greetings! I am a 3rd year PhD student at the UA in Biomedical Engineering. My lab focuses on Biosensors, and I specifically work on low-cost diagnostic methods using paper-based microfluidics. Research is amazing but is also definitely guaranteed to hurt your brain.
I 100% recommend the BME field to anyone who is (1) interested in STEM, programming, writing, arts, etc., and (2) wants to learn how to translate science and tech to real-world applications. There is so much out here waiting to confuse you and teach you. Join us!!
Hello! My name is Danielle Philo and I am a junior at the University of Arizona majoring in Microbiology with minors in Molecular & Cellular Biology and Public Health. I have been a part of the Bhattacharya lab since March 2020 where we study various parts of B cells from metabolism to gene regulation. My project focuses on the antibodies produced after infection with SARS-CoV-2. Following graduation, I am hoping to explore my passions including public health, science communication, and education. Outside of lab, I love yoga, cooking, and of course my cat Lyra.
Hello! My name is Kayleigh Paddock and I am a junior at the University of Arizona studying Physiology & Medical Sciences with a minor in Biochemistry. I grew up in a small town called Tuba City, Arizona, which is located on the Navajo reservation. I have lived there my entire life, and I draw a lot of my motivation and inspiration from my community and people. With this in mind, I aspire to become a pediatrician or family doctor and enter rural medicine with the intention of serving Native people and more underrepresented and underserved populations.
In my free time, I love to cook and try new foods around Tucson! My favorite restaurant is Mi Nidito and I love grabbing coffee/tea at small cafe shops with friends. I have two support cats whom I love very much and a pug I adopted last year. Some of my hobbies include weightlifting and running.
William Borkan (he/they) a Master’s student in Soil, Water and Environmental Science and part of the 2020-2021 NSF Indige-FEWSS Traineeship. At the University of Arizona, he works in the contaminant transport lab, studying the transport and fate of uranium in groundwater bodies. This summer he will participate in an internship with the Navajo Nation EPA to assist in site inventories and remedial investigations of abandoned uranium mines.
My name is Bassam Mitri and I am a senior at the UA majoring in Molecular and Cellular Biology. I work in the Capaldi lab, mainly focused on understanding the interactions underlying the PKA protein and its substrates.
I lived overseas in Lebanon for the majority of my life and hope to continue my journey in the US. I enjoy all kinds of sports and just recently got more involved in Jiu-Jitsu. A great sport for working both the body and mind!
Kiah is a senior at the University of Arizona, majoring in Biochemistry and French with a minor in Mathematics. She is currently working as an undergraduate researcher in Dr. Joyce Wu’s immunology lab where she is studying the intercellular relationships between T and B cells in autoimmune arthritic mice in the presence of the gut commensal Segmented Filamentous Bacteria. Outside of the lab, Kiah enjoys picnics in the park with her friends, coaching a Special Olympics swim team and doing arts and crafts. After graduation, she plans on attending graduate school and hopes to acquire a PhD before continuing a career in academic research.
This week we are talking with Jennifer Cubeta.
Jennifer is a University of Arizona and UBRP alumna who graduated from UA in 2000 with Bachelor’s degrees in biology and science education. She has been involved in science education ever since. After teaching life science at the middle school level for three years and serving as an academic advisor for UA’s Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology for ten years, Jennifer became the Assistant Director of UBRP in 2013 and then the Director of UBRP in January 2018, where she continues to enjoy helping college students learn science through research. In her spare time, Jennifer loves to spend time with her family, cook, travel, and serve as a musician at her church.
About UBRP: The University of Arizona’s Undergraduate Biology Research Program (UBRP) is an educational program designed to teach students science by involving them in biologically-related research. Students are paid for their time in the lab or field, where they develop an understanding of the scientific method, receive a realistic view of biological research, and are mentored by faculty. They also acquire the tools necessary to be successful in post-graduate studies in biology should they choose careers related to biology or research. Students begin UBRP with a full-time summer research apprenticeship, and then have the option to continue in UBRP on a part-time basis during the academic year, to accommodate classes.
For more information about the UBRP Conference:
https://ubrp.arizona.edu/conference/33rd-annual-conference
Nhat Nguyen
My name is Nhat Nguyen, and I am a senior at the University of Arizona majoring in Physiology. Since my freshman year of college, I have been a research assistant in Dr. Lalitha Madhavan’s lab in the Department of Neurology. Currently, I am investigating the role of a molecule called Nrf2 in the development of Parkinson’s disease through various methods such as cell counting, cell staining, and protein identification. In my free time, I like to play tennis, soccer and watch movies with my friends.
Arisbeth Ibarra Nieblas grew up in Sonora, Mexico, where she learned first-hand about water being a finite and vulnerable resource which catapulted her pursuit of water issues-related work and graduate studies. She is a fourth-year doctoral student in the Environmental Engineering Program at the University of Arizona, and her graduate research involves persevering water delivery infrastructure by developing a corrosion monitoring system. Also, Arisbeth is a fourth-year Sustainable Bioeconomy for Arid Regions (SBAR) Fellow, where she works developing and teaching science lessons and experiments to middle school students. For additional details, please refer to the article from the American Institute of Chemical Engineers.
This program is also available in Spanish.
This program was hosted By Monica Ramirez Andreotta
Edited by Elva De la Torre
Recorded and Produced by Bridgitte Thum
Music from Crowander “Your Eyes” find more at Crowander.com
My name is Carly and I am a senior here at the University of Arizona majoring in Neuroscience with minors in Spanish and Biochemistry! I am an undergraduate researcher in Dr. Daniela Zarnescu’s lab where we study the neurodegenerative disease Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) using fly models. Our research looks at various celular and genetic mechanisms in the disease and also potential treatments for ALS.
Some other things I do outside of lab includes being a Science and Spanish tutor and I am the co-president of a premedical club on campus. My hobbies include knitting, working out, and cooking (specifically Middle Eastern and Mexican food).
Asma El Ouni and is a Research Scientist at the Environmental Science Department of University of Arizona. She works at the Contaminant Transport Lab group of Dr. Mark Brusseau. Besides work, Asma loves art, music, and most of all she enjoys a family reunion and a delicious Mediterranean food.
Hi! My name is Karina Gonzalez and I am a senior at the University of Arizona studying Physiology and Medical Sciences with a minor in Spanish. I am part of the Lu Lab in the R. Ken Coit College of Pharmacy where we study and develop cancer chemotherapeutics through the use of medicinal chemistry and nanotechnology. Our goal is to increase the overall effectiveness of combination cancer nano-therapies that can both reduce systemic toxicities and prevent tumor recurrence. Currently, I am testing the cytotoxicity of the nano-therapeutics that we have created, which are liposomes that we package with our chemo-drug to determine the most efficient yet safest amount of this combo-therapy for treatment use per type of cancer. At the end of my undergraduate career, I hope to have gained profound insight into the complex-nature of such a prevalent disease as cancer and the functionality of various forms of chemotherapeutics in order to utilize what I have learned to help my future patients one day in my pursuit of a career as a Nurse Practitioner. In my free time, I am involved in medical-related clubs across campus and volunteer for local organizations including Clínica Amistad and Z-Mansion that provide resources and healthcare to the underserved homeless and minority populations both in Tucson and Mexico. I also enjoy playing basketball, hiking, and pursuing my new-found love for goat yoga!
Ma’in Alghzawi, a PhD student in the Environmental Science Department at The University of Arizona supervised by Dr. Jon Chorover. He joined Dr. Chorover’s group to investigate the environmental controls on the bioavailability of toxic metal/oids in mine tailings. Presently, Alghzawi is working to increase his experience in the environmental chemistry field and to complete the geochemical analysis needed to quantify the distribution of toxic metal/oids in mining sites.
Hello, my name is Marquel Begay and I am proud member of the Navajo tribe. I am a third year PhD student in the Ecology, Management, and Rangeland Restoration program at the University of Arizona. My research focuses on using natural and social sciences to inform community-based ecological restoration planning and management for degraded rangeland ecosystems on the Navajo Nation.
My name is Sydney Cleavenger and I am a graduate (M.S.) student in the Environmental Science program at the University of Arizona. My research focus is soil microbial ecology, specifically, the effect of land use on microbial composition and function in the soil and vegetation associated with the mesquite (Prosopis velutina).
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Hello! My name is Cynthia Ge. I am a junior majoring in Biomedical Engineering and Molecular and Cellular Biology. I am currently an undergraduate researcher in Dr. Minkyu Kim’s Lab. We are working to develop a method to produce keratin proteins using the E. coli bacteria. The manufactured keratin will be used for percutaneous osseo-integrated prosthetic devices and other biomedical purposes.
Outside of the lab I am involved in various clubs and organizations on campus. I am currently a part of Tau Beta Pi, the Medical Devices Club, and the Society of Women Engineers. I also enjoy drawing, crocheting stuffed animals, and baking.
This episode of Thesis Thursday was recorded hosted and produced by Bridgitte Thum.
Music is from Crowander, “Your Eyes”
Thank you for visiting KXCI.ORG
Ali Yaylali is a Ph.D. candidate in the Teaching, Learning, and Sociocultural Studies Department at the University of Arizona. He is a former English and Turkish language teacher. Currently, he studies second language teaching and writing with a particular interest in scientific writing in secondary schools.
My name is Bhumika Phanindra. I am a senior at the University of Arizona majoring in Neuroscience and Cognitive Science (NSCS) with a minor in Biochemistry. I have been working with Dr. Melissa Halpern for the past two years to study the effects of secondary bile acids on Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC), a disease that is characterized by the necrotic inflammation in the colon. I am particularly interested to study the effects of secondary bile acids on tight junctions and if it increases susceptibility to NEC. Moving forward, I aspire to become a physician and contribute my efforts in a clinical setting. Aside from academics, I enjoy spending time with my friends, dancing and painting!
The music for Thesis Thursday is from Crowander, the name of this track is “Your Eyes”
This episode originally aired 3/19/2020
Victoria Howard is a junior at the University of Arizona double majoring in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology and Natural Resources with an emphasis in Wildlife Conservation. After having the opportunity to intern at a State Park in high school, she was inspired to pursue a career in invasive species management. On-campus Victoria is a member of the Ecological Restoration Club and a trip leader for the Honors Alternative Spring Break to Whiteriver, AZ where students get the opportunity to complete a service project related to sustainable agriculture and tribal sovereignty. Victoria is also active within the Residence Hall Association, sitting on its executive board as the Director of Programming. In her free time, she enjoys yoga, hiking the Sonoran Desert landscape, and watercolor painting.
I’m a senior this year, double majoring in Molecular and Cellular Biology and Neuroscience and Cognitive Science. I’ve been working in the Charest Lab for almost 2 years, studying the role of the Ras-mTOR pathway, specifically the protein mTORC2. Our research focuses on chemotaxis, and how these gradients are involved in the metastasis of breast cancer cells.
Aside from school and lab, I’m very involved in the Tucson community. I started my own political organization with some of my friends called Stand Up, Fight Back Tucson, organizing protests and rallies to fight for civil rights. Our org. works with other local mutual aide and civil rights organizations as well! I also love music, and I’m a jazz singer, singing around Tucson with different jazz bands.
Susan D. Perez is a Graduate Associate in the Department of Environmental Science in the College of Agriculture at the University of Arizona. She considers herself a person with a lot of curiosity whose main goal in grad school is to learn how to answer more of those questions. Susan enjoys spending time with her husband, hiking, gardening, and singing classical and liturgical music.
music for Thesis Thursday is from Crowander, the name of the track is “Your Eyes”
Thesis Thursday is edited, produced and sometimes hosted by Bridgitte Thum at KXCI Community Media in Tucson, Arizona.
Hi, my name is Joshua Castillo, and I am a senior at the Univeristy of Arizona double majoring in
Molecular and Cellular Biology and Physiology. I currently work in the Zarnescu lab where we
study neurodegenerative diseases such as ALS using fruit flies as our model organism. Outside
of the lab, I enjoy playing video games, hanging out with friends and plant shopping.
music for Thesis Thursday is from Crowander, the name of the track is “Your Eyes”
Thesis Thursday is edited, produced and sometimes hosted by Bridgitte Thum at KXCI Community Media in Tucson, Arizona.
Hello! My name is Cassandra Myers, and I am currently a junior at the University of Arizona studying pharmaceutical science with a minor in biochemistry. I am part of the Cherrington lab, where we study liver disease, specifically non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), and how it affects people’s ability to metabolize and eliminate drugs. Currently, I am helping with our bariatric study by performing the genotyping for each of our patients. I isolate the DNA from the blood samples of our patients and search for polymorphisms in specific genes that may have given them NASH. I have deeply enjoyed being able to be a part of the Cherrington lab and learn more about pharmacology and toxicology. In my free time, I have become more involved with the Society of Toxicology and have joined their ToxMSDT program, where I will get the opportunity to learn more about toxicology from professionals in the field. Additionally, I am a part of the University of Arizona’s Black Girls Fitness Club (Bfit), where we encourage a safe space for black women to work out. Outside of these activities, I enjoy hiking, yoga, gardening, and exploring Tucson.
The music in this episode comes from Crowander, the track is called “Your Eyes”
This episode of Thesis Thursdays was hosted, recorded and produced by Bridgitte Thum.
Thank You for listening to and supporting community radio at KXCI.org
Born and raised in northwest Iran I earned my bachelor’s degree in chemistry from Sharif University of Technology in Tehran, Iran in 2016. I moved to the United States in 2017 to get my master’s in analytical chemistry from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. Now I’m at the University of Arizona pursuing my doctorate.
My name is Elijah Keeswood. I am Navajo and Apache. I will be a senior at the University of Arizona. I major in Biomedical Engineering and minor in Biochemistry. I work with Dr. Anne Cress at the University of Arizona Cancer Research Center. Our research focuses on epithelial cancer invasion and metastasis.
My main job in the lab is to analyze the images of the cancer samples from ourexperiments. These samples are new and never been seen before. Since they are specific, I must figure out ways of manipulating features of the analysis software to meet the needs of analyzing these samples. I am looking at these images for hours, but I like it, so I believe that I have an aptitude for visual activities. In my free time I enjoy drawing, watching movies, and playing fighting video games. I also like finding new music. I have found a lot, thanks to KXCI.
Hi, I’m Joshua Hack! I will be a senior in Fall 2021 majoring in Molecular and Cellular Biology and Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, with minors in Music and Marine Science and will also be starting a Master’s program in Molecular and Cellular Biology. I’ve been working in the Hammer Lab for the last year and a half studying the rare pediatric disease SCN8A Epilepsy caused by changes in the gene that encodes for a specific sodium channel (SCN8A) located in the center of the brain. My project has focused on developing a model to predict the severity of disease outcome in patients based on where in the gene their changes occur. Outside of the lab, I am a bassist in the University of Arizona Symphony Orchestra, and I enjoy hiking, SCUBA diving, cooking, baking, and reading philosophy and world-building fantasy.
Hello everyone! My name is Sami Muslmani and I am a rising Junior at the University of Arizona. I am double majoring in Biochemistry and Neuroscience and Cognitive Science with a minor is Spanish. I have worked in Dr. Marvin Slepian’s Cardiology lab for roughly 2 and a half years now since high school, where we explore three main areas: 1. the role of cell-matrix interactions in vascular disease, 2. basic aspects of cell-material interactions and 3. the impact of physical forces (notably shear and sound) on platelet activation. This summer, we have started a new project to identify the role of water channels within platelets and the resulting effect of shear stress and low sodium conditions on platelet function. Moving forward, I hope to become a physician and provide clinical aid to impoverished areas across the globe. Beyond academics, I enjoy staying active at the Rec center, watching movies, trying new food spots around Tucson, and traveling to new cities with friends.
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Music for this web version of Thesis Thursday is provided by Crowander. The track is called “Your Eyes”
This episode of Thesis Thursday was hosted and produced by Bridgitte Thum.
Thank You!