Research Ambassadors
Meet Your Research Ambassadors
Are you looking for a peer to ask questions about undergraduate research? Look no further!
Research ambassadors are experienced undergraduate researchers who have volunteered their time to help you navigate the research process through peer mentorship.
A more comprehensive, user-friendly list of the 2025-26 research ambassadors' contact information will be posted soon! Until then, please select from the list below.
TIP! Try narrowing it down with a keyword search for one of the following disciplines:
-Life Sciences
-Physical Sciences
-Social Sciences
-Humanities
-Engineering & Math
Maria Ahmed ‘26
Email me at: mahmed18@u.rochester.edu
Discipline(s) of Research
Life Sciences
Major(s) and Minor(s)
BS in Biochemistry, Minor in Business
Areas of Interest/Research Focus
I have been in Dr. Sina Ghaemmaghami's lab in the Department of Biology since the summer of 2023, when I joined through the Chemistry in Medicine REU program. My research since then has centered around using mass spectrometry-based proteomics to study post-translational modifications and cellular responses to oxidative stress, with a particular focus on methionine oxidation. My goal is to apply my findings to further our understanding of aging and neurodegenerative diseases.
Areas where I may be particularly helpful
Discover Grant application writing, REU application writing, touring the lab and learning about the biology department, finding/applying to conferences, reaching out to professors to find research on campus, finding external research programs, and general personal statement writing/application tips.
What advice do you have for prospective or new researchers?
My advice to prospective or new researchers is to set realistic goals and expectations early on and always take a shot at any opportunities that come your way. In my experience, research can be very stressful when you think that everything will work out the first time. Just remember that mistakes and failures are part of the process! And that goes for scholarship/fellowship/research program applications as well. So just keep trying your best and remember that this time is mostly for you to learn and develop skills that you can use wherever you go in the future.
Juhi Amin ‘27
Email me at: jamin3@u.rochester.edu
Discipline(s) of Research
Life Sciences
Major(s) and Minor(s)
BS in Molecular Genetics, BA in Economics
Areas of Interest/Research Focus
Focused on clinical cancer research, specifically analyzing whether wider margins from oncoplastic reduction in reconstructive surgery for breast cancer patients influence the need for radiation boost to guide individualized treatment | Radiation Oncology Clinical Research at Pluta Cancer Center; Sun Lab at URMC; NCI Center for Cancer Research Internship
Areas where I may be particularly helpful
Interview prep, cold emailing, poster presentations, summer program applications
What advice do you have for prospective or new researchers?
It’s okay to explore different labs before finding one that feels like the right fit. I’d encourage you to take the time to talk with different PIs and get a sense of how their lab runs day to day. Every lab has its own environment and mentorship style, and sometimes it takes time to try out a few labs to figure out what interests you the most and matches your learning style. When I first started, I felt pressure to commit right away, but I’ve realized that exploring different labs or even switching directions is a normal and valuable part of discovering your interests.
Sophie Anderson ‘28
Email me at: sander71@u.rochester.edu
Discipline(s) of Research
Physical Sciences; Humanities
Major(s) and Minor(s)
BS in Chemistry; Minor in Music; Minor in Spanish
Areas of Interest/Research Focus
Labs:
*Ellen Matson Lab, Department of Chemistry, University of Rochester (Winter Semester '25 - present)
*Miguel I. Gonzalez Lab, Department of Chemistry, Dartmouth College (Summer '25)
Research Focus:
Inorganic Chemistry, Organometallic Chemistry, Music, Spanish
Areas where I may be particularly helpful
*Getting started in research (especially as a first-year)
*Cold emailing
*Learning how to approach PI's/Professors
*Personal Statements
*Tour of lab/department
*Time management
What advice do you have for prospective or new researchers?
Advice I wish someone had told me as a new researcher is that research is about taking things one day at a time. There are going to be setbacks. Things won’t always go right, but that’s part of the process. No matter the discipline of research, unexpected challenges will come up. The important thing is that every day, you’re getting a little closer to your goal; having a vision and committing to it, even when you can’t predict the outcome.
Elena Barr ‘27
Email me at: ebarr3@u.rochester.edu
Discipline(s) of Research
Natural Sciences; Social Sciences
Major(s) and Minor(s)
BS in Cell and Developmental Biology; BA in Psychology
Areas of Interest/Research Focus
Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Gerber Lab, URMC—Conduct translational research on immunotherapy treatments for pancreatic cancer.
Department of Immunology, Goswami Lab, MD Anderson Cancer Center—Investigate the epigenetic pathways that regulate responses to immune-based therapies.
Center for Health and Technology (CHeT), Benzi Kluger, URMC—Evaluate healthcare equity in clinical research and encourage integration of patient-centered care.
Department of Psychology, SCP Lab, UR—Conduct experiments to understand social challenges with schizophrenia spectrum disorders (SSDs).
Areas where I may be particularly helpful
Internship application writing, crafting emails to reach out to PIs, interview skills, tours of URMC and my wet lab, abstract writing and poster presentation skills.
What advice do you have for prospective or new researchers?
As a freshman interested in getting involved in research, I wish I had been more open-minded in exploring different research areas. Although immediately committing to the first opportunity may seem tempting, it's important to investigate your interests and take time to shadow and learn about what field of research is the best fit for you. This curiosity will help lead you to opportunities that best align with your goals and strengths.
Bianca Begun ‘26
Email me at: bbegun@u.rochester.edu
Discipline(s) of Research
Life Sciences
Major(s) and Minor(s)
BS in Microbiology; BA in Psychology
Areas of Interest/Research Focus
My area of interest in research is microbiology, and my current research project at the Meyer Lab (Department of Biology) uses Adaptive Laboratory Evolution (ALE) to increase the acid production of Lactococcus Lactis. My previous research project at the Meyer Lab was on using bacterial cocultures to produce renewable energy more efficiently. Some other labs I have previously worked at include the Nudler Lab (Department of Microbiology/Immunology) at NYU and Reckitt Benckiser's microbiology department.
Areas where I may be particularly helpful
-getting started with finding labs/reaching out to PIs
-applying to the Discover Grant and other research grants/programs
-conducting research at a company (industry) vs conducting research in a university lab
-making research posters & practicing for poster presentations
What advice do you have for prospective or new researchers?
Don't be afraid to cold email labs that you are interested in! While many PIs may not respond at first, don't be discouraged- some labs may just not be looking for undergraduate researchers at the time.
Between River Campus and the URMC, there are plenty of labs for those interested in research and there will definitely be someone looking for an undergrad researcher. Even if you are just starting out and do not have any experience, you just need to demonstrate that you have read about their research and show genuine interest/commitment!
Jack Chen ‘27
Email me at: jchen198@u.rochester.edu
Discipline(s) of Research
Life Sciences; Social Sciences
Major(s) and Minor(s)
BS in Biochemistry; BA in Health, Behavior and Society
Areas of Interest/Research Focus
-Dr. Grayhack / Grayhack Lab / Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics
-Vaccinex (Biotech) / Immunohistochemistry team / Vaccinex headquarters
-Dr. Fay / Fay Lab / Department of Biology
-Dr. Davies / Project TRAIL / Department of Psychology / Mt. Hope Family Center
Areas where I may be particularly helpful
I can help guide students starting their research journeys. As someone who began research in my first year, I understand how overwhelming it can be, especially as a first-generation college student. I’m eager to support others in navigating lab environments, finding mentors, and building confidence. With experience in both academic and biotech research, and as a McNair Scholar, I can offer valuable insight and encouragement to first-generation students at the University of Rochester.
What advice do you have for prospective or new researchers?
Don’t be afraid to step into research for the first time, even if you feel like you don’t know everything, no one starts off knowing it all. Explore different labs and remember it’s okay to move on if the environment isn’t the right fit for you. Research is as much about finding your niche as it is about building skills.
Audrey Chung ‘26
Email me at: achung17@u.rochester.edu
Discipline(s) of Research
Life Sciences
Major(s) and Minor(s)
BS in Biology
Areas of Interest/Research Focus
Falsetta Lab, Obstetrics & Gynecology: Within my project on endometriosis, I am currently investigating the expression and activation of ion channels, such as TRPV4, that play key roles in pain signaling. Via ELISAs and calcium imaging, we are looking to elucidate biomarkers that will enable more targeted diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
Zent/Chu Lab, Hematology & Oncology: My hematology project focuses on inducing THP-1 monocytes into macrophages and investigating the mechanisms of ADCP to improve monoclonal antibody therapies.
Areas where I may be particularly helpful
- Finding a research interest and contacting labs
- Resumes and cover letters
- Schwartz Discover and other grant applications
- Research presentations
- General academic advice
What advice do you have for prospective or new researchers?
Getting started in research as an undergrad is an incredible journey. You don't need to have everything figured out from the start - what matters most is staying curious and keeping an open mind. One of the best aspects of undergraduate research is the freedom to explore different fields and to immerse yourself in what you choose. I entered college looking for research in neuroscience, but I ended up gravitating toward projects within oncology and women's health.
My advice is to follow your interests wherever they lead you, seek opportunities boldly, and commit to work that sparks your curiosity. I have found that truly rewarding research not only deepens your understanding about the world but also teaches you a lot about yourself, and this university has a wealth of resources to help you discover where that research lies for you.
Nora Culver ‘25/Take 5 ‘26
Email me at: nculver2@u.rochester.edu
Discipline(s) of Research
Humanities; Social Sciences
Major(s) and Minor(s)
BA in History
Areas of Interest/Research Focus
Soviet history, cultural history, histories of science
Archival research: Honors thesis for the department of History on Cold War orchestral exchange (2025)
Archaeological research: Prof. Jarvis’ Bermuda Field School (2023)
Areas where I may be particularly helpful
Discover Grant app writing, grant or thesis proposal writing generally, humanities research, archival research
What advice do you have for prospective or new researchers?
What ‘counts’ as research is much broader than I had expected when I first started school. Humanities and social sciences research especially can be harder to define or picture as a set path to someone who’s new to it. To anyone who’s interested in research but not exactly sure how or where to start, I’d say: ask around! Professors love to talk about their own research, students love to talk about the research they’re doing, and many resources exist on campus just itching for someone to use them.
Also—speaking directly to humanities or independent researchers—it’s easier (and more fulfilling) to try to convince people your interest is worth researching than it is to try to mold yourself or your application to what you think they might want.
Brooke Devendorf ‘26
Email me at: bdevendo@u.rochester.edu
Discipline(s) of Research
Life Sciences
Major(s) and Minor(s)
BS in Biology; Minor in Brain and Cognitive Sciences
Areas of Interest/Research Focus
I work in a biomedical genetics lab under the PI Mark Noble. We are working on post chemo-therapeutic treatment to treat the side effects of chemotherapy including "chemo-brain" which includes effects on cognition, memory and emotional regulation. In the PNS, the most debilitating are pain syndromes of peripheral neuropathy. These side effects have the potential to persist long after the completion of chemotherapy.
Areas where I may be particularly helpful
I can do tours of labs, interview skills, research skills, and finding multiple labs of interest that can work for each person individually.
What advice do you have for prospective or new researchers?
Stay curious and persistent in your search for what is right for YOU. Research isn't about knowing all the answers or understanding everything immediately, it's about learning to ask the questions and finding people who are willing to guide you in your new discoveries.
Don't be afraid to make mistakes, we were all where you were once. Mistakes are a necessary part of research. If we knew the answers perfectly there would be no reason for research at all. You’re building the habits and mindset of a lifelong learner and that can be incredibly powerful.
Wimeth Dissanayake ‘26
Email me at: wdissana@u.rochester.edu
Discipline(s) of Research
Life Sciences
Major(s) and Minor(s)
BS in Molecular Genetics
Areas of Interest/Research Focus
Role of the Bone Marrow Microenviornment in Clonal Hematpoiesis - Yeh Lab at the Center for Musculoskeletal Research, University of Rochester Medical Center
Cellular Mechanisms Underling Neutrophil Granulopoiesis - Von Blume Lab at the Department of Cell Biology, Yale School of Medicine
Areas where I may be particularly helpful
Preparation of abstracts, presentations, and manuscripts. Advice on publishing and Goldwater Scholarship applications. General information about the Journal of Undergraduate Research.
What advice do you have for prospective or new researchers?
Read the literature, do it frequently and thoroughly. As an undergraduate, one of the most important things in performing research is understanding the rationale and field your work is situated in. Yes, you might be busy, and it is convenient to only think about your research when you are in the lab, at the bench, doing experiments.
However, for every hour I have scoured the literature, I have saved weeks’ worth of failed experiments or aimless confusion over results. ** Also, if you don't know what research to look into yet, check out the Journal of Undergraduate Research at jur.rochester.edu **
Spencer Dittelman ‘26
Email me at: sdittelm@u.rochester.edu
Discipline(s) of Research
Humanities; Social Sciences
Major(s) and Minor(s)
BA in American and British Literature; BA in Politics, Philosophy, and Economics
Areas of Interest/Research Focus
My research is largely focused on the intersection between 19th-Century literature and social and political philosophy. I have conducted independent research projects through grants from the U of R Humanities Center and the English Department on the works of George Eliot, Nathaniel Hawthorne, Anthony Trollope, John Stuart Mill, and Marx, among others.
Areas where I may be particularly helpful
- Project Ideation
- Getting students in touch with appropriate resources and faculty
- Grant or application writing
- Interview preparation
- Presentation preparation
What advice do you have for prospective or new researchers?
Before you start a research project, outline the scope of what you want to argue or prove. It's incredibly easy to get swept up in the passion for your project and then end up with a monstrous 60-page paper that took months to create, and there's still more you can do. For the sake of your own time and energy, plan thoroughly ahead of time what you reasonably can accomplish within the natural constraints of being an undergraduate researcher.
Ines Drissi Qeytoni ‘26
Email me at: idrissiq@u.rochester.edu
Discipline(s) of Research
Life Sciences
Major(s) and Minor(s)
BS in Biomedical Engineering; Minor in Biology
Areas of Interest/Research Focus
Rochester iGEM 2023 team, Biology Department
Gorbunova/Seluanov Lab (aging research), Biology Department
Ellerby Lab, Buck Institute for Research in Aging, Summer Scholars Program
Areas where I may be particularly helpful
I am happy to help any way I can. I have applied and gotten the Schwartz Discover Grant - I would be happy to help students with their apps. I have interviewed for research positions in industry and academia and would love to help students prepare. I can also help with REU apps and finding the right REU.
What advice do you have for prospective or new researchers?
Don't feel inadequate if you cannot understand everything your lab or mentor does straight away. It takes a really long time to develop that understanding and it is not possible to be that knowledgeable straight away. The same applies when applying to labs, you cannot know or understand everything the lab does before reaching out, but reading one paper from the lab is important. The only way to be sure a lab will not let you join is not to reach out.
Kelechi Ejiofor ‘26
Email me at: kejiofor@u.rochester.edu
Discipline(s) of Research
Life Sciences; Social Sciences
Major(s) and Minor(s)
BS in Computational Biology; BS in Clinical and Translational Sciences; Minor in Psychology
Areas of Interest/Research Focus
My research specifically centers on infant γδ T-cell development and their gut microbiome. In the Dr. Scheible's Lab, I analyze a longitudinal cohort by working with 16S rRNA and high-dimensional cytometry datasets, using R workflows.
Initially, I got into research as part of Mt. Hope Family Center’s Project P.R.O.M.I.S.E., coding parent–infant interaction videos to evaluate the impact of Child-Parent Psychotherapy. Both experiences reinforced my commitment to child development and expanded my computational and biological knowledge.
Areas where I may be particularly helpful
Discover Grant app writing
Post Baccalaureate Research Applications
Cold Emailing and Contacting PI's
Poster and Oral Research Presentations
Attending Conferences
What advice do you have for prospective or new researchers?
Start before you feel “ready”, it’s never too early or too late; email a PI with a brief intro and ask to sit in on a lab meeting. Use your campus resources, from the Office of Undergraduate Research, the Writing & Speaking Center, the Career Center, the Fellowships Office, even peers. The most important lesson I learned was to ask for help early and often; it’s a strength that helps you learn.
Andy Feng Chen ‘26
Email me at: afengche@u.rochester.edu
Discipline(s) of Research
Engineering & Math
Major(s) and Minor(s)
BS in Electrical and Computer Engineering; BS in Computer Science
Areas of Interest/Research Focus
I currently research terahertz spectroscopy and ultrafast laser physics at the Laboratory for Laser Energetics with the Roman Sobolewski Group, focusing on the interaction of THz radiation with materials. Previously, I contributed to the Lotus Project with Peter Heur and Varchas Gopalaswamy at the LLE OMEGA Division, where I optimized and documented image analysis software for inertial confinement fusion experiments.
Areas where I may be particularly helpful
I can support students with research applications, and I have experience with interview preparation and can share strategies for presenting research interests clearly and confidently. In addition, I am happy to provide personal insights, explain what day-to-day research looks like, and offer guidance for students navigating interdisciplinary paths in engineering, computer science, and physics.
What advice do you have for prospective or new researchers?
Don't be afraid to ask questions. No one expects you to know everything when you start. Take the time to connect with professors whose work you find interesting, since those relationships can open doors to great opportunities. Research is about learning, so it’s normal to feel uncertain at first. The more curious and engaged you are, the more rewarding the experience will be.
Matt Gleason ‘26
Email me at: mgleaso9@u.rochester.edu
Discipline(s) of Research
Physical Sciences
Major(s) and Minor(s)
BS in Chemistry
Areas of Interest/Research Focus
Interests: Organometallic Catalysis, Mechanistic Organic Chemistry, Sustainable Synthesis
Research Experience: Kennedy Lab - Department of Chemistry (Current), Discovery Chemistry Intern - Corteva Agriscience (Summer 2025)
Areas where I may be particularly helpful
Schwartz Discover Grant application, writing research statements/ proposals, applying to internships, reaching out to PIs, and anything at all!
What advice do you have for prospective or new researchers?
Communication! Be sure to set expectations with your PI and other mentors. Communicating questions and concerns is essential throughout your entire research journey to foster a healthy mentor-mentee relationship and ensure that you grow in your new role.
Zach Greenwell ‘27
Email me at: zgreenwe@u.rochester.edu
Discipline(s) of Research
Engineering & Mathematics
Major(s) and Minor(s)
BS in Biomedical Engineering; Minor in Spanish
Areas of Interest/Research Focus
Benjamin Miller Lab (undergraduate research): Development of microphysiological systems integrated with photonic biosensors to effectively model human tissues.
Strong Memorial Hospital (EDRA program): Recruitment of SMH Emergency Department patients for URMC-affiliated research studies and clinical trials.
Areas where I may be particularly helpful
Schwartz Discover Grant application writing
Lab tours
Breaking into research for the first time
Presentation and conference preparation
What advice do you have for prospective or new researchers?
When getting started in research, it's important not to view research as a box to check but as a way to enrich your academic journey in a meaningful way. Trying to strike the right balance between simply getting your foot in the door and finding research that you're truly interested in can seem difficult and daunting at first, but prioritizing your passions and interests when evaluating opportunities will ultimately make your research experience much more valuable in the long run.
Particularly at the beginning of any lab experience, forming strong connections with mentors and other lab members can be just as important as the work itself, as these individuals will become strong advocates for you as you progress towards your goals, both inside and outside of the lab.
Laura Houle ‘26
Email me at: lhoule2@u.rochester.edu
Discipline(s) of Research
Life Sciences
Major(s) and Minor(s)
BS in Neuroscience; Minor in Music
Areas of Interest/Research Focus
Analyzing EMG data at various stages in post-stroke recovery to identify predictors of chronic motor control impairments. PI Dr. Ania Busza, Movement and Plasticity Lab, URMC Neurology Department
Assessing the quality of life of heart failure patients with a Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD)- PI Dr. Jeffrey Alexis, URMC Cardiology Department
Comparing the retained primitive neurological reflexes in children from Rwanda and the United States- Neurodevelopmental Institute of New Hampshire
Areas where I may be particularly helpful
Finding the best research fit/getting started
Drafting cold emails
Public speaking and presentation skills
Clinical research
Time management
What advice do you have for prospective or new researchers?
It is completely normal to not have everything figured out, and most people feel intimidated at first when starting research. Asking a lot of questions and not being afraid to put yourself out there is key, since joining a lab is as much about making sure it’s the right fit for you as it is about the lab seeing if you’re a fit for them. Your interests will evolve and refine as you gain experience, and discovering what doesn't excite you is equally as valuable as finding out what does.
Marcos Ibáñez Matles ‘26
Email me at: mibanezm@u.rochester.edu
Discipline(s) of Research
Engineering & Mathematics
Physical Sciences
Major(s) and Minor(s)
BS in Electrical and Computer Engineering; BA in Computer Science
Areas of Interest/Research Focus
I work in the High-Energy-Density Physics Theory Group in the Laboratory for Laser Energetics. I’ve worked part-time since Fall 2023 and full-time over the summer developing HPC simulation code for quantum particle interactions. My work involves adaptive mesh refinement, DFT, and C++/MPI/PETSc/deal.II on supercomputers: https://www.lle.rochester.edu/new-code-meliora-released-by-lles-high-energy-densityphysics-theory-group/
During my Qualcomm internship (Summer 2025), I researched ML applications for DSP. I’m also deeply interested in computer graphics and hardware design, especially how GPUs accelerate scientific and visual computing.
Areas where I may be particularly helpful
I can help connect you with professors in both the Electrical & Computer Engineering and Computer Science departments for research or academic guidance.
I can also advise on course selection across both majors. I’ve done HPC research at the Laboratory for Laser Energetics and completed a summer internship at Qualcomm and would be happy to discuss how I got these opportunities and my experience there.
I’m also applying for a Fulbright grant for grad-school.
What advice do you have for prospective or new researchers?
My main piece of advice for prospective or new researchers is not to be afraid to reach out to people, most are happy to help. When it comes to professors, many hire students who either took their classes or reached out to them directly with clear goals, and some have even told me they’ve never turned away a student who expressed genuine interest in their research. The same applies to students.
If you see someone on LinkedIn or for example, a student ambassador who works at a lab or field you’re interested in, ask them how they got that position or if they'd be willing to introduce you to the right people. The key is to take that first step. As soon as you feel you may be ready to start contributing your skills, reach out.
Jaden Idris ‘28
Email me at: jidris@u.rochester.edu
Discipline(s) of Research
Life Sciences
Major(s) and Minor(s)
BS in Neuroscience; Minor in Anthropology
Areas of Interest/Research Focus
Calcium Imaging in Astrocytes in Dr. Nathan Smith’s Lab at URMC
Areas where I may be particularly helpful
Interview skills, tour of neuroscience lab at URMC, discover grant app writing
What advice do you have for prospective or new researchers?
Be open to learning new things! It’s okay to not have all the answers. Research is not just about discovery, but exploration and expanding your knowledge.
Joshua Jung ‘26
Email me at: joshua.jung@rochester.edu
Discipline(s) of Research
Humanities
Major(s) and Minor(s)
BA in Anthropology; Minor in Music
Areas of Interest/Research Focus
Areas of research:
- Cultural anthropology
- Ethnomusicology
- Asian American studies & Black studies
Sites of research:
2025: UNC Chapel Hill - Moore Undergraduate Research Apprenticeship Program under the mentorship of Dr. Michael A. Figueroa (ethnomusicology)
2023-2024: Rochester, Toronto, & digital spaces - Production of the ethnographic documentary "Neo-Cru R&B: Youth of Anemoia" through the supervision of UR's Anthropology (Reichman, Osburg), Religion & Classics (Marshall), Film (Middleton), Music (Covach)
Areas where I may be particularly helpful
- Humanistic social science research (fieldwork, participant observation, interview strategies, creative direction)
- Grant and fellowship search and writing revisions
- Navigating academic relationships
What advice do you have for prospective or new researchers?
1) If you’re in the arts, don’t be afraid to re-examine your interests from a scholarly lens despite the minimal local spotlight on humanities research. You’d be surprised at how many research questions can unfold from your seemingly unscholarly passions!
2) Get tight with your home department - professors and peers alike. They're your home base from which you venture into academia. Especially in the humanities and humanistic social sciences, I can testify that connections are (often) key.
Jackson Kane ‘26
Email me at: jkane15@u.rochester.edu
Discipline(s) of Research
Social Sciences
Major(s) and Minor(s)
BA in Psychology; BA in Economics; Minor in Statistics
Areas of Interest/Research Focus
Areas of interest: Partisan divergence, specifically on the topics of the Equal Rights Amendment, evolution, and gun bills; education economics
I mainly work with Professor Gamm in the Political Science Department, but I've also done work for the Economics Department and the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas.
Areas where I may be particularly helpful
Discover Grant Application
Academic Advice
Archival-Based Research
Economic Research Internships
What advice do you have for prospective or new researchers?
Take a step forward and don't hesitate to put yourself out there! Connecting with professors, applying for grants, and discussing your research interests with peers are key steps to kickstart your research journey. It's completely okay if it takes some time to see the results you want; the important thing is that the effort pays off in the end.
By actively seeking opportunities and sharing your passion, you're not only enriching your academic experience but also paving the way for valuable connections and exciting discoveries. Keep at it, and the rewards will follow!
Ben Kozloff ‘26
Email me at: bkozloff@u.rochester.edu
Discipline(s) of Research
Physical Sciences
Major(s) and Minor(s)
BS in Chemistry
Areas of Interest/Research Focus
Synthetic Organic Chemistry. My research focuses on the development of new chemical reactions which give rapid access to complex organic frameworks.
Prof. Alison Frontier - University of Rochester; Prof. Marvin Parasram - New York University
Areas where I may be particularly helpful
- Discover Grant, REU, and fellowship applications.
- Identifying research groups which match your unique interests.
- Securing a research position.
- Preparing for conferences, talks, and poster presentations.
What advice do you have for prospective or new researchers?
Cast a wide net and don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. Undergraduate research is all about building transferable skills which will prepare you for diverse opportunities in academia and beyond. Understand that there is no predefined answer in the issues you are investigating, rather it is your job to discover it. Ask lots of questions and maintain a growth mindset; its all about the experience you gain.
Julia Largett ‘26
Email me at: jlargett@u.rochester.edu
Discipline(s) of Research
Physical Sciences
Major(s) and Minor(s)
BS in Physics and Astronomy; BA in Philosophy; Minor in Mathematics
Areas of Interest/Research Focus
Currently, I conduct research in astrophysics and the philosophy of science at the University of Rochester, spanning galaxy classification using machine learning (with Dr. Segev BenZvi and Dr. Kelly Douglass) and theoretical equivalence in physical theories (with Dr. Zeynep Soysal).
Past work includes solar physics instrumentation at NASA Marshall Space Flight Center / UAH NSF Heliophysics REU (with Dr. Amy Winebarger) and environmental engineering at Clarkson University NSF Aquatic Science REU (with Dr. Yang Yang).
Areas where I may be particularly helpful
I can offer valuable guidance for REU applications, having completed two myself (at NASA Marshall Space Flight Center and Clarkson University). I can help students identify programs, craft strong essays, and prepare for interviews. I’m also happy to give tours of my lab or department, arrange visits to the Mees Observatory, and help students build their professional network by connecting them with mentors and researchers I’ve worked with at Rochester and through past programs.
What advice do you have for prospective or new researchers?
I’d tell new researchers not to be afraid to pursue exactly what excites them, and not to worry if their interests change along the way. At the same time, avoid spreading yourself too thin. Always take a moment to ask yourself how each opportunity benefits you and why you want to pursue it. That self-awareness will help you make choices that are both meaningful and sustainable.
Cheryl Liu ‘26
Email me at: zliu101@u.rochester.edu
Discipline(s) of Research
Physical Sciences
Major(s) and Minor(s)
BS in Physics and Astronomy; BA in Mathematics
Areas of Interest/Research Focus
PI: Danae N. Polsin
Lab: Laboratory for Laser Energetic, experimental high energy density (HED) physics group
Research focus: HED physics, especially in material properties under extreme condition. I'm currently research on Tantalum phase transition in pressure-temperature space.
Areas where I may be particularly helpful
Conference preparation, presentation slides and poster preparation
What advice do you have for prospective or new researchers?
Don’t hesitate to reach out to people and use the resources on campus! Most researchers are happy to share their experiences and offer guidance to help you get started. Research isn’t just for those planning an academic career, it'll be a valuable way to explore your interests, develop new skills, and learn more about potential future paths.
Abobakar Sediq Miakhel '26
Email me at: amiakhel@u.rochester.edu
Discipline(s) of Research
Physical Sciences; Engineering & Math
Major(s) and Minor(s)
BS in Physics; BS in Mechanical Engineering
Areas of Interest/Research Focus
-Quantum chaos
-Quantum sampling
-Quantum complexity
Areas where I may be particularly helpful
- Connect students with potential research opportunities in the physics department
- Provide support on how to approach a professor
- Help with research method
What advice do you have for prospective or new researchers?
To find research with a professor, identify faculty whose work you like, then send a personalized email explaining your interest and attaching your resume. Follow up politely, and consider attending their office hours to make a direct connection.
If they are not taking new students, don't hesitate to go to other labs where you might discover new research areas.
Krish Patel ‘27
Email me at: kpatel46@u.rochester.edu
Discipline(s) of Research
Life Sciences; Engineering & Mathematics; Humanities; Social Sciences
Major(s) and Minor(s)
BS in Computer Science
Areas of Interest/Research Focus
Labs:
Samuel Norman-Haignere Lab, URMC Neuroscience (Fall '23 -> Present)
Antonis Armoundas Lab, MGH Cardiology (Fall '24 -> Present)
Jesse Schallek Lab, URMC Visual Science (Fall '23 -> Spring '25)
MIND Data Science Institute, MGH Neurology (Summer '23)
Clotilde Lagier-Tourenne, MGH Neurodegeneration (Spring '22 -> Fall '23)
Grants: Research and Innovation Grant, Meshrob Mashtots Innovation Grant, Meliora Scholars Grant, Schwartz Discover Grant, Bilski-Mayer Grant & CS Discover Grant.
Areas where I may be particularly helpful
* Grant application writing
* Lab Tours
* Research Planning/Time Management
* Getting started in Research
What advice do you have for prospective or new researchers?
A valuable piece of advice I have received from many of my PIs has been that realizing you are not interested in something can be equally as important as falling in love with the work you are doing. Embrace the unknown and take chances in your research pursuits; you never know where they might lead you.
Carmen Price ‘26
Email me at: cprice10@u.rochester.edu
Discipline(s) of Research
Social Sciences; Life Sciences
Major(s) and Minor(s)
BS in Brain and Cognitive Sciences; BA in Psychology; Minor in Legal Studies
Areas of Interest/Research Focus
Adolescent psychopathology and development. I’ve work in Dr. Jamieson’s social stress lab as a head RA and my honors thesis is with Dr. Elizabeth Handley at Mt. Hope Family Center on hair and nail cortisol mediating the relationship between childhood maltreatment and adult substance use.
Furthermore, I’ve participated in research with URMC’s psychiatry department on reintegration of previously incarcerated women and women who have been victims of intimate partner violence via the WISH-Transitions Health clinic.
Areas where I may be particularly helpful
Interview skills, lab tours, application help/writing
What advice do you have for prospective or new researchers?
Explore any interests you have, but also as long as you like what you do, expand on it! It’s been really cool to work on similar areas of interest but in different aspects in the labs I’ve work in. Also, make sure to form a relationship with your PI and those in your lab - make it fun to go into work and enjoy what you’re doing.
Jaden Reinicke ‘27
Email me at: jreinic2@u.rochester.edu
Discipline(s) of Research
Engineering & Mathematics
Major(s) and Minor(s)
BS in Biomedical Engineering; Minor in Ethics
Areas of Interest/Research Focus
-Vaccine biology and Immunology in the Sant Lab under Andrea Sant.
-Pharmacology and Physiology in the Glading lab under Angela Glading.
-I am most interested and currently working in Vaccine biology and immunology; specifically, I am working with novel adjuvant systems to improve vaccines for respiratory viruses such as influenza and covid.
Areas where I may be particularly helpful
-Getting started - how to choose/evaluate a lab
-Interviewing
-Basic skills - GLP - wet lab, note taking, common lingual, working in sterile conditions, chemical safety, biological safety
-Resume, LinkedIn
-Networking
-Helpful resources - Consensus, GISAID, UCAR, FlowJo, Aurora
-Transfer students
-Public speaking roles - poster presentations, pedestal presentations
-Mentoring
What advice do you have for prospective or new researchers?
First, I definitely had less lab experience than you did when I started; PIs expect this out of incoming undergrads, so focus on showing passion, curiosity, and reliability to land your first position. Second, the right lab isn’t always the one that perfectly matches your interests or your degree plan, so explore widely and take chances on opportunities that excite you (you have time to switch your major). Third, don’t expect to cure cancer in your first years, but also don’t settle for washing dishes your whole life - set clear goals, communicate them with your PI, and maintain that communication (watch out for toxic labs, they all have issues with communication). Finally, don’t let research consume your life; balance it with other opportunities like clubs since a well-rounded experience will probably help you get into medical school more than research anyway (lots of caveats, definitely visit the Greene Center).
Rajneet Saini ‘26
Email me at: rsaini@u.rochester.edu
Discipline(s) of Research
Engineering & Mathematics; Social Sciences
Major(s) and Minor(s)
BS in Applied Mathematics; BS in Computer Science
Areas of Interest/Research Focus
My research focus is on artificial intelligence, specifically its use cases and quantitative consequences. I worked with Dr. Adam Purtee in the CS department (Wegmans Hall).
Areas where I may be particularly helpful
I think I will be particularly helpful with Discover Grant application writing.
What advice do you have for prospective or new researchers?
The advice I have for prospective or new researchers is to not be afraid to explore their curiosities and interests because sometimes the decisions they make can lead them down new paths -- giving them new opportunities to meet people and find their particular niche.
Liv Schaubroeck ‘26
Email me at: oschaubr@u.rochester.edu
Discipline(s) of Research
Life Sciences
Major(s) and Minor(s)
BS in Biochemistry; Minor in Studio Art
Areas of Interest/Research Focus
I've been working for three years in the Brisson lab investigating transgenerational effects in pea aphids, specifically looking at these effects within the realm of climate change. Recently, I've been working with a post-doc on antibody staining of transcription factors in Drosophila. My future research goals lie in the realm of Ecotoxicology.
Areas where I may be particularly helpful
I've been a recipient of the Schwartz Discover Grant, a highly competitive Beckman prospect, Personal Grant Acquisition, Grad School applications (specifically for first-generation students)
What advice do you have for prospective or new researchers?
Undergraduate research is about learning to fail. When entering this world as a first-generation college student, I expected a lab to run very similarly to a normal job. When I made my first major mistake, I expected to be fired on the spot. But a good mentor will always be able to work with you and help transform it into a learning experience. Learning how to make mistakes, and therefore how to course correct, is what makes a good researcher.
Fatima Shahid ‘27
Email me at: fshahid2@u.rochester.edu
Discipline(s) of Research
Life Sciences
Major(s) and Minor(s)
BS in Molecular Genetics
Areas of Interest/Research Focus
Perkins/Zhang Lab, Dept of Pathology: we’re a malignant hematology lab studying a protein isoform thought to be involved in stress hematopoiesis and recovery after traumatic therapies for diseases like cancer.
Areas where I may be particularly helpful
Discover grant applications
Cold emails/reaching out
What working in research looks like day to day
Tour of the med center
What advice do you have for prospective or new researchers?
Don’t be afraid to reach out and (politely) ask a PI to chat! Most PIs have spent their entire careers studying what they’re researching and love talking about it. If you show a genuine interest in what they’ve accomplished and it aligns with their schedule, they’re usually happy to schedule something—and may be more likely to keep you on their radar when hiring undergrads.
Brooke Stanley ‘26
Email me at: bstanle6@u.rochester.edu
Discipline(s) of Research
Physical Sciences
Major(s) and Minor(s)
BS in Chemistry; Minor in Russian
Areas of Interest/Research Focus
I work in the Paradine Research Group in the Chemistry department. We mainly focus on organometallics research and I participate in various projects that focus on the heteroannulation of oxaheterocycles utilizing urea-enabled palladium catalysis.
Areas where I may be particularly helpful
Discover Grant application writing, interview skills. tour of lab, tips on presenting and professionalism.
What advice do you have for prospective or new researchers?
Communicating your research is just as important as doing the physical lab work. Your PI/mentors value you dedicating time to do the lab work/whatever task in-person but more often than not, they are expecting you to know the fundamentals of your project and understand the precedents already set in your research area. Read the group's publications and learn the language and knowledge within the topic and it will beneficial for you in the long run!
Erica Sundermeyer ‘26
Email me at: esunderm@u.rochester.edu
Discipline(s) of Research
Physical Sciences
Major(s) and Minor(s)
BS in Physics and Astronomy; Minor in Mathematics; Minor in Spanish
Areas of Interest/Research Focus
University of Rochester, Department of Physics and Astronomy (Fall 2024-Present); Advisor: Dr. Dominique Segura-Cox
Observational/radio astronomy. Studying early stages of star formation.
Louisiana State University Physics and Astronomy REU (Summer 2024); Advisor: Prof. Gabriela Gonzalez
Experimental gravity/general relativity. Worked on noise analysis for gravitational wave detectors.
Areas where I may be particularly helpful
- Helping students write strong applications for research programs/grants/fellowships.
- Advice on finding research within one's own department as well as through outside programs, and what to look for in a mentor.
- Advice or practice communicating research effectively, whether that be writing an abstract, putting together a poster, or honing presentation skills.
- Talking to parents/families who are interested in helping their student find research, and who want to know that their student will be supported.
What advice do you have for prospective or new researchers?
Don't be afraid to pursue what you're interested in! It's worth taking time to find a research group doing work that interests and excites you. And, when you discover a research field that you're excited about, reach out to faculty! People love to share what they do, and sending cold emails is a valuable skill. In general, you never know what doors you're opening by just exploring what you love.
Christina Wang ‘26
Email me at: xwang207@u.rochester.edu
Discipline(s) of Research
Life Sciences
Major(s) and Minor(s)
BS in Cell and Developmental Biology; BA in Statistics
Areas of Interest/Research Focus
Pancreatic Cancer, Dr. Carpizo, Department of Surgery, Wilmot Cancer Institute
Areas where I may be particularly helpful
Advice on balancing research with coursework and extracurriculars; communication in a lab; making scientific illustrations/posters.
What advice do you have for prospective or new researchers?
Failure and negative results are a normal and valuable part of research. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, gather feedback, or seek guidance from people around you. How much you get out of the experience depends on how much you put into it, so take initiative and engage fully. Don't give up! If you need to try it a second time, try it a second time, or third, fourth, and more.
Hanna Wang ‘26
Email me at: hwang127@u.rochester.edu
Discipline(s) of Research
Life Sciences
Major(s) and Minor(s)
BS in Molecular Genetics; Minor in Philosophy
Areas of Interest/Research Focus
Fu Lab, UR Department of Biology: Investigating organismal and neurodevelopmental impacts of deficiency in a tRNA modification.
Lückerath Lab, University Hospital Essen: DAAD-RISE internship, worked with theranostics research on radioligand targeting tumor and CAF proteins.
Das Lab, MGH: Looking at how presence of tRNA fragments may lead to protective effects on kidney injury.
Emergency Department Research Associate (technically more clinical focused): We identify, introduce, and enroll eligible participants for clinical research studies at URMC.
Areas where I may be particularly helpful
Application writing for DAAD-RISE, Schwartz discover grant, UPBM biology fellowships, drafting emails, general academic advice
What advice do you have for prospective or new researchers?
Looking for research labs/positions can definitely feel challenging! I first arrived here without experience in research nor a clear picture what research really entailed. To those beginning their journeys, I'd recommend reaching out to research ambassadors with similar interests, looking through department pages that UR and URMC have online, and identify what areas you'd be interested in learning and contributing toward. Research is an enriching experience where you will learn to tackle challenges, collaboration, and balancing schedules. Even if you feel that research is not your long-term goal, the skills developed will definitely help shape your future.
Grace Widjaja ‘26
Email me at: gwidjaja@u.rochester.edu
Discipline(s) of Research
Life Sciences
Major(s) and Minor(s)
BS in Biochemistry; BA in Music
Areas of Interest/Research Focus
- Protein-protein/DNA interactions that drive acute myeloid leukemia — Perkins Lab URMC
- Cyanobacteria biophotovoltaics — iGEM 2024 under Dr. Meyer Dept. of Bio
- Microalgal synthetic biology — research interest (hopefully Fulbright with Dr. Lang, Hochschule Bremerhaven)
Areas where I may be particularly helpful
- Lab shadowing
- Getting into a lab (networking)
- Writing posters and drafting talks for conferences
- App writing
- Determining research interest
- Research opportunities outside of STEM
- Just chatting about research :)
What advice do you have for prospective or new researchers?
The thing that made me fall in love with research is the community. Getting into research can feel really daunting, papers are confusing, talks are jargon-heavy, and how are you supposed to just jump right into all that? But that‘s the beautiful thing, no one is expected to know and understand everything, that‘s why we do research. You really see that philosophy shine at conferences, where a bunch of people who are just passionately curious come together to share what they learned. Cut yourself some slack, follow your curiosity, and surround yourself with people who are supportive in mentoring you.
Claire Wilcox-Black ‘26
Email me at: cwilcoxb@u.rochester.edu
Discipline(s) of Research
Humanities
Major(s) and Minor(s)
BA in Philosophy; BA in Classics
Areas of Interest/Research Focus
I've done research for both of my majors. In Classics, I'm particularly interested in ancient Roman drama and poetry. I’ll also be venturing into Latin prose composition in an independent study this fall.
In Philosophy, I'm most interested in philosophy of mind and philosophy of law. I’ll be combining these two in my honors thesis this year, centering around discussions of mental illness.
Areas where I may be particularly helpful
Interview skills, presentation skills, speech writing, essay writing, how to find/submit to journals
What advice do you have for prospective or new researchers?
Treat it as an exciting opportunity to learn more about a new topic! As a humanities student, I didn’t always think of what I was doing as innovative research in the same way as STEM subjects, and now I know humanities is very different. It’s more about adding to arguments on a given topic than creating new data. As an undergraduate, I’m still able to contribute to the discussion in a relevant way, which makes what I do valuable for others as well as a beneficial exercise for myself.
Madison Zeng ’27
Email me at: mzeng7@u.rochester.edu
Discipline(s) of Research
Social Sciences
Major(s) and Minor(s)
BA in Health, Behavior and Society; BA in Psychology; Minor in General Writing Studies; Minor in Philosophy; Minor in Biological Sciences
Areas of Interest/Research Focus
University of Rochester Medical Center - Department of Public Health Sciences: CTFFL | Co-Investigator and Student Researcher
University of Rochester - Department of Psychology: Le Lab | Research Assistant
Student National Medical Association - International Affairs Committee (IAC) 2024-25 | Global Health Systems Fellow and Researcher
Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai - Interdisciplinary Collaborative Research Training Program | Student Researcher in Health Equity
New Rochester AmeriCorps | Urban Fellow Service Member and Field Research Assistant
Areas where I may be particularly helpful
I am enthusiastic about providing guidance to students who are keen on improving their research foundation. I have the ability to assist with peer review and provide critical appraisals to students who would benefit from feedback on written drafts. I could also provide insights into literature and systematic reviews, as well as the process of analyzing and abstracting from empirical research. Furthermore, I can suggest appropriate platforms for data collection and management.
What advice do you have for prospective or new researchers?
I entered college with no prior research experience, but I have grown significantly, achieving success through impactful contributions to various investigations and gaining experience across multiple disciplines. As a basis for research, it is an incredibly systematic process that follows a logical framework or methodology.
It is expected that the process can feel iterative as you apply constructive feedback to improve your work. In fact, this is just the natural progression of research. Each finalized draft I have submitted for publication or presentation has gone through multiple rounds of revisions, demonstrating the precision and persistence that are inherent in academia. Thus, it is important to understand that research is an incremental process that occurs in stages, and it is natural to encounter moments of critical refinement along the way.
Hana Zhang ‘26
Email me at: hzh125@u.rochester.edu
Discipline(s) of Research
Social Sciences
Life Sciences
Major(s) and Minor(s)
BA in Health, Behavior and Society
Areas of Interest/Research Focus
I began in a biology lab studying GAL genes in yeast, then joined the Jamieson Social Stress Lab to study real-time physiological responses to stress.
I also conduct pediatric environmental health research with URMC's Finger Lakes Children’s Environmental Health Center and WNY Lead Poisoning Resource Center, investigating how exposures like lead impact Rochester families. I interviewed caregivers, analyzed barriers to care, and co-authored a manuscript, then expanded this work through the SCRC Summer Training Program.
Areas where I may be particularly helpful
How to reach out to PIs, prepare for interviews, create a strong resume, prepare for presentations (oral, poster), and find programs/research opportunities/conferences that align with your interests and goals.
What advice do you have for prospective or new researchers?
“Comparison is the thief of joy.” It’s easy to look around and feel like everyone else has it all figured out (research, shadowing, leadership, etc.), but we’re all on different timelines. I started out doing biology research because I thought that’s what pre-meds were supposed to do. But eventually, I realized my interests had shifted, and that was okay.
Research isn’t just something to check off for your resume. Make it meaningful, use it as a chance to explore what excites you, learn how to think critically, and grow from setbacks. And don’t fear rejection! I sent dozens of emails before I got a single response. Rejection doesn’t mean you’re not good enough; it’s just part of the process. Whether you're a freshman or a senior, it’s never too early (or too late) to try something new. Your path is your own!
Masha Zvereva ‘27
Email me at: mzvereva@u.rochester.edu
Discipline(s) of Research
Life Sciences; Social Sciences
Major(s) and Minor(s)
BS in Microbiology; BA in Psychology
Areas of Interest/Research Focus
PI: Dr. Archibald Perkins/ Area of research focus: immunology/ leukemia
Team: SIREN — BOOST/
PI: Dr. David Paul, Primary Coordinator: Reanna Stewart/ Area of research focus: Traumatic Brain Injury
Program: Emergency Department Research Associate/ Supervisors: Nancy Wood and Kyle Sullivan
Areas where I may be particularly helpful
Asking for letter of recommendation, interview skills, exploring both wet-lab and clinical research opportunities
What advice do you have for prospective or new researchers?
The beauty of research is its vast diversity, so take the time to explore different fields until you find a project that genuinely excites you, as this passion is key to a rewarding research experience. Also, embrace the learning process: you will fail, but you will also learn so much from these setbacks. Research is all about experimenting and exploring uncharted routes! Be fearless, not reckless.