Students

Inside the Expanding World of Science Careers: Insights from CNAS Alumni

tomwt — Tue, 03 Mar 2026 22:26:58 +0000

Inside the Expanding World of Science Careers: Insights from CNAS Alumni tomwt Tue, 03/03/2026 - 14:26 More Blog Posts March 03, 2026

Panel and dinner conversations highlight the breadth of opportunities available to science graduates.

Students, alumni and campus partners gathered Feb. 18 at the UC Riverside Alumni and Visitors Center for “Dinner with Alumni: Science Careers Beyond Healthcare,” an evening designed to broaden career exploration and strengthen connections across the Highlander network.

Hosted by the Student Alumni Association (SAA) and the Associated Students UCR (ASUCR) Alumni Relations Committee, the program was sponsored by the UCR Alumni Association (UCRAA), the UCR College of Natural & Agricultural Sciences (CNAS) and the UCR California Teach – Science & Math Initiative (CalTeach–SMI).

Dinner with Alumni is a signature Student Alumni Association program held one to two times each quarter, bringing students together with accomplished alumni and industry professionals in an informal setting designed for meaningful connection and career exploration. Open to all students, the event creates opportunities to build professional relationships, explore career pathways and gain real-world insight across industries.

The evening included a networking mixer, a panel discussion with Q&A, and small-group dinner conversations that gave students direct access to alumni at their tables—encouraging candid dialogue about career journeys, opportunities across scientific fields, and the realities of professional life after UCR.

Dean Atkinson on the Future of Science Careers

CNAS Dean Peter Atkinson opened the program by reflecting on the evolving landscape of science and the wide range of opportunities available to today’s graduates.

“The future of science is constantly evolving, and your career path may take unexpected turns,” Atkinson told students. “Embrace that uncertainty. The knowledge and skills you gain here will allow you to adapt, innovate and help shape what comes next.”

He encouraged students to remain open to change as scientific fields expand and intersect in new ways, noting that the challenges ahead—from environmental sustainability to advances in medicine and agriculture—will require scientists who are prepared to think broadly, collaborate across disciplines and apply their expertise in emerging fields.

“It’s a remarkable time to be entering the sciences,” he said.

Building Community Through Career Exploration

For Annalicia Garcia, assistant director of programming and career development in the Office of Alumni Engagement and staff lead for the event, Dinner with Alumni is designed to build both professional readiness and a sense of belonging.

“Dinner with Alumni… Science Careers Beyond Healthcare was an opportunity for alumni to be able to connect with our current student population to talk about different industries and career aspects that are happening within the science world,” Garcia said.

She added that the goal extends beyond networking—especially for students navigating uncertainty about the economy and the future.

“What I’m hoping that the students get out of the experience is a sense of being in community… being able to come together with Highlanders, and talking about different aspects of careers, but also their personal aspirations as well.”

Garcia also highlighted the role of the Student Alumni Association, which connects current students with alumni through programs, events and professional development opportunities including panels, mentorship and networking experiences. SAA partners closely with the UCR Alumni Association to help students transition seamlessly into the alumni network and remain lifelong members of the UCR community.

“This aspect of programming allows them to get connected—maybe elsewhere they wouldn’t have,” she said.

Participants typically include undergraduate and graduate students as well as young alumni, creating opportunities for peer-to-peer and cross-generational networking across different stages of professional development.

Alumni Share Career Journeys—and the Turns They Didn’t Expect

During the panel, alumni speakers emphasized a shared theme: career paths are rarely linear, and students should give themselves permission to explore, pivot and learn through experience.

Savannah Sprague ’18, M.Ed. ’19, a sixth-grade math and science teacher, described how mentorship and early involvement shaped her trajectory. A high school teacher encouraged her to consider education, and once at UCR she found her direction through involvement and advising—including through pathways connected to science and math teaching programs.

She spoke candidly about beginning her teaching career during the pandemic and the importance of staying grounded in purpose—while still embracing new challenges, new grade levels and new ways of teaching.

Ryan Kudla, Ph.D. ’16, who now works in cosmetic chemistry, told students he “fell into” the industry through relationships and opportunity—an example, he noted, of how connections can open doors when your original plan changes. He described the satisfaction of applied product development and encouraged students to meet professionals, attend industry gatherings and start building networks early.

Leslie Hickle ’74, Ph.D. ’81, CEO and co-founder of FarmSense, shared a career narrative rooted in curiosity and experimentation—moving from chemistry into entomology and ultimately into entrepreneurship and startup innovation. She emphasized how a strong technical foundation can translate across industries and roles, and described the unique energy of startups that take discoveries and turn them into real-world products.

Dr. Tina Hambuch ’93 traced her shift from a pre-med mindset to genetics after taking courses that changed how she saw the world. She encouraged students to explore classes beyond their original plan and resist the pressure to treat graduation as a “clock ticking” moment. Her career—from academia to applied clinical testing and lab innovation—was shaped by staying open to the next step, not just the next title.

Wajdie Ahmad ’01, a biopharmaceutical entrepreneur, shared how he ultimately chose industry over medical school and learned the pharmaceutical world through experience—first in labs, then through increasingly complex roles and challenges. He emphasized that motivation and long-term perseverance matter in industries like biopharma, where timelines to bring therapies to market can stretch for years.

“If you’re not inspired, there’s no way you can ever push yourself to see the finish line when that finish line can be so far away,” Ahmad said.

Q&A Highlights: Industry Insight, Burnout and Career Navigation

Student questions reflected both curiosity and realism: how industries work, how to enter them, and how to sustain motivation without burnout.

Panelists discussed regulatory environments, emerging technologies, and the wide range of roles that exist within science-driven industries — including business, operations, logistics and product development. Speakers emphasized that building relationships, exploring new opportunities and staying adaptable are essential to long-term career growth.

Students also raised questions about maintaining passion in demanding fields such as education. Sprague encouraged staying connected to personal purpose, continuing to learn and embracing new opportunities for growth — a message echoed across the panel.

Alumni Spotlight: Science Careers Across Industries

A central feature of the evening was the opportunity for students to learn directly from accomplished UC Riverside alumni whose careers demonstrate the breadth of possibilities available to science graduates.

Wajdie Ahmad ’01
Co-Founder and Chairman, Amplifica
A biopharmaceutical executive, entrepreneur and investor with more than 20 years of industry experience, Ahmad has co-founded multiple companies and currently serves as co-founder and chairman of Amplifica, a biotechnology company developing novel treatments for androgenic alopecia (hair loss). He previously co-founded Bonti (2015) and served as COO; the company was acquired by Allergan in 2018. Earlier in his career, he spent 13 years at Allergan in biologics manufacturing and development, contributing to neurotoxin innovations, including Botox. Ahmad holds an MBA from UC Irvine and a bachelor’s degree from UC Riverside.

Dr. Tina Hambuch ’93
Vice President, Laboratory Medical & Pathology, Exact Sciences
Dr. Hambuch leads the integration and innovation of molecular test offerings across multiple laboratories and assays at Exact Sciences. Her career has spanned major advances in genetic testing and genome sequencing technologies, including leadership roles at Ambry Genetics, Illumina, Invitae and Quest Diagnostics. She earned a B.S. in Biology from UCR, a Ph.D. in Population Genetics from UC Berkeley, completed postdoctoral training at the CDC and is board certified in clinical molecular genetics.

Dr. Leslie Hickle ’74, Ph.D. ’81
CEO & Co-Founder, FarmSense, Inc.
Dr. Hickle has built a career translating advanced technologies into products that improve outcomes for people, animals and the environment. With experience across startups in agriculture, animal health, vaccines and renewable energy, she now leads FarmSense, a UC Riverside spinout working at the intersection of computer science, AI/ML and biology to advance crop protection and entomology innovation.

Dr. Ryan Kudla, Ph.D. ’16
Account Manager, West Coast, Barnet Products
A trained solid-state NMR spectroscopist who transitioned into cosmetic chemistry, Kudla works in product development and industry innovation. He serves in leadership roles with the Society of Cosmetic Chemists and helped establish the first West Coast Cosmetic Chemistry Certificate Program, while supporting scholarship opportunities for students entering the field.

Savannah Sprague ’18, M.Ed. ’19
Secondary STEM Teacher, Grade-Level Chair, Etiwanda School District
Sprague teaches middle school math and science and serves in instructional leadership roles supporting curriculum and student success. Her career reflects a commitment to preparing future scientists and mathematicians while shaping STEM education at the classroom level.

A High-Touch Model for Mentorship and Connection

Several student organizations also participated through informational tabling, including the Associated Students of UCR (ASUCR), the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM), the Materials Science and Mechanical Engineering Graduate Student Association (MSME-GSA), and The Actuarial Science Club (TASC).

For alumni panelists, the program offers a meaningful opportunity to give back to the UCR community by sharing expertise, mentoring students and strengthening professional connections across the Highlander network. The event supports continued alumni engagement with campus and university partners while reinforcing the lifelong connection between graduates and UC Riverside.

By design, Dinner with Alumni creates an environment where students can speak directly with alumni—asking candid questions, sharing goals and building the relationships that often shape career decisions long after graduation.

Programs like Dinner with Alumni continue to strengthen the Highlander network by bringing generations of students and graduates together in conversation—reinforcing UC Riverside’s commitment to mentorship, professional growth and lifelong engagement.

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Students

UCR Celebrates Next Generation of Scientists at RUSD and Val Verde Science Fair Awards Ceremony

joanny — Tue, 17 Feb 2026 21:56:22 +0000

UCR Celebrates Next Generation of Scientists at RUSD and Val Verde Science Fair Awards Ceremony joanny Tue, 02/17/2026 - 13:56 More College News February 17, 2026

The University of California, Riverside College of Natural & Agricultural Sciences celebrated young scientific achievement on Friday, January 30, 2026, hosting awards ceremonies for both the Riverside Unified School District (RUSD) and the Val Verde Unified School District Science and Engineering Fairs.

The events marked the culmination of weeks — and in many cases months or years — of student research and experimentation. Families, teachers, and community members gathered on campus to recognize the work of student scientists whose projects explored topics ranging from environmental safety and public health to engineering innovation and agricultural sustainability.

RUSD’s ceremony took place at University Theater, while Val Verde Unified held its celebration at the Student Success Center. For Val Verde, the evening was especially significant: it was the district’s first time hosting both its science fair and awards ceremony at UC Riverside. Student projects from the fair were also displayed that night, allowing families and community members to explore the research firsthand.

“This opportunity is bigger than anything we’ve done before,” said Leonesa Sanchez, Teacher on Special Assignment for Science Instruction at Val Verde Unified School District. “Our students are practicing how to communicate their ideas, share their research, and see themselves on a college campus. That kind of experience can be powerful — especially for students who may not have imagined themselves here before.”

CNAS leaders say the recognition ceremonies reflect more than academic accomplishment — they highlight the region’s growing pipeline of young scientists.

“These partnerships show that we are not some abstract group of academics,” said CNAS Dean Peter Atkinson. “We are here for our residents and our communities, and we are part of a continuous pipeline of future scientists, educators, and innovators.”

The awards also represent the collaborative effort behind each fair, including dozens of faculty, staff, and student volunteers who support judging and mentorship. Dr. Stephanie Dingwall, CNAS Divisional Dean of Student Academic Affairs, noted the breadth of participation across the college.

“We had judges from across disciplines — statistics, mathematics, physics, biochemistry, plant biology — and from all levels, including faculty, graduate students, and postdoctoral scholars,” Dingwall said. “It reflects how invested the university community is in supporting these students.”

For school district leaders, the awards ceremonies are as much about inspiration as recognition.

“It’s an opportunity for families and the community to see the range of ideas and creativity students bring to their research,” said Julie Smith, Instructional Services Specialist for TK–12 Science at Riverside Unified. “They get to see what students have accomplished and imagine what they can achieve next.”

CNAS Award Winners — Riverside Unified School District

Best in Elementary Division
The Power of Lemons — Maxwell Sanderson

Best in Junior Division
Autogenous Culex pipiens Sperm & Ova Production are Affected by the Intake of Distinct Caloric Sources — Joshua Curtis, Diego Diaz and Glenn Zhang

Best in Senior Division
Rational In-Silico Design of Multi-Functional Immunotherapeutic Peptides Targeting MHC-I Presentation, TCR Activation, and PD-1/PD-L1 Immune Checkpoints — Anthony Hernandez and Emmanuel Pudussery

Sweepstakes Award
Isolation of PFAS-Defluorinating Anaerobic Bacteria — Ubaid Awan & Patrick Moon

CNAS Award Winners — Val Verde Unified School District

Best in Elementary Division
Is the Water in Mead Valley Safe to Drink? Does Temperature and Location Affect pH and Levels of Calcium and Magnesium? — Julio Armenta Ibarra

Best in Junior Division
One Barrier to Rule Them All — Caden Rissland and Ricardo Sanchez

Best in Senior Division
Aggregate Stability and Carbon Stabilization Under Gamma Cyhalothrin Application — Francine Habacon

Sweepstakes Award
Windfall Profits: Optimizing Turbine Design — Athena Chacon and Michael Marquez

As both districts continue their partnership with UC Riverside, educators and university leaders alike see the awards ceremonies as a milestone — not an endpoint — in students’ scientific journeys. Each project recognized represents not only academic excellence, but the promise of future discovery emerging from classrooms across the Inland Empire.

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Young Scientists Take Center Stage at UCR During Riverside Unified School District Science and Engineering Fair

joanny — Tue, 17 Feb 2026 21:17:28 +0000

Young Scientists Take Center Stage at UCR During Riverside Unified School District Science and Engineering Fair joanny Tue, 02/17/2026 - 13:17 More College News February 02, 2026

On January 27, 2026, HUB 302 at the University of California, Riverside was filled with poster boards, lab notebooks, and a steady hum of scientific curiosity as students from across the Riverside Unified School District (RUSD) gathered for the district’s annual Science and Engineering Fair. For a few hours, the room became a hub of discovery — where local RUSD students shared research, answered probing questions, and stepped into the role of scientists.

For UC Riverside’s College of Natural & Agricultural Sciences (CNAS), hosting the event is more than a one-day partnership. It is part of an ongoing commitment to community engagement, scientific encouragement, and building pathways from local classrooms to future careers.

“This is the future,” said CNAS Dean Peter Atkinson. “These are our future physicians, scientists, and teachers. The pipeline that is coming from multiple schools within RUSD is strong and continuous, and you can’t help but be inspired by the quality of the students and the work they present.”

Science in action — and in conversation

From early morning through midday, volunteer judges — more than 60 faculty members, staff, graduate students, and postdoctoral scholars from across CNAS disciplines — evaluated projects spanning environmental science, biology, chemistry, engineering, and beyond.

For younger students, judges evaluated projects based on poster presentations. For middle and high school students, judging included in-depth conversations about research questions, experimental design, and future directions.

Dr. Stephanie Dingwall, CNAS Divisional Dean of Student Academic Affairs and Associate Professor of Teaching in Biochemistry, helped coordinate the judging effort. She said judges consistently walked away impressed.

“They have been extremely impressed with the students’ caliber — their ability to communicate their ideas clearly, their scientific rigor, and how proactive they are,” Dingwall said. “Some judges even remarked that many of these students would thrive here at UCR.”

The interaction between students and scientists is one of the most meaningful aspects of the event, according to Julie Smith, Instructional Services Specialist for TK–12 Science at RUSD.

“That conversation between students and judges is such a great opportunity for both groups,” Smith said. “Students get to share their ideas and research, and judges get to reconnect with what scientific curiosity looked like when they were younger. It’s inspiring on both sides.”

A campus experience that expands horizons

The science fair itself is only part of the experience. After judging concluded, many students participated in the CNAS Experience — an immersive introduction to life as a university science student.

Participants toured campus facilities, visited the Geology Museum, and conducted a hands-on strawberry DNA extraction experiment in a teaching laboratory. They also attended a welcome session and student panel featuring CNAS Science Ambassadors, who shared their academic journeys and answered questions about college life.

For many students and families, the visit marked their first time on a university campus — even for those who have lived in Riverside their entire lives.

“Our goal is to broaden their horizons and show them what is possible,” Smith said. “Some parents told us it was their first time ever being on the UCR campus. That exposure matters — it helps students and families see what their futures could look like.”

Creating that sense of possibility is central to CNAS’s role in the region, Atkinson emphasized.

“We are their University of California,” he said. “We are here for our community. We want students across the Inland Empire to feel a sense of belonging — that this is their university and a place where they can succeed.”

Near-peer inspiration

For CNAS Science Ambassador Amanda Arrieta, the most powerful part of the day is not the judging — it is the conversations.

Arrieta, a biochemistry major and transfer student, spends much of the event talking with students and families, sharing her own academic journey and answering questions about what college is really like.

“When I was their age, I knew college was a concept, but I didn’t really know what it meant,” she said. “So having them here — seeing labs, meeting students, walking around campus — it makes college real.”

She often sees the shift happen in real time.

“You can see it on their faces,” Arrieta said. “They realize, ‘Oh, I could do this.’ That moment — when it feels possible — that’s my favorite part.”

Big ideas from young researchers

The projects themselves reflect the depth of curiosity and ambition among RUSD students.

At Martin Luther King High School, juniors and seniors Patrick Moon and Ubaid Awan presented research exploring how bacteria might help break down PFAS — persistent industrial chemicals that contaminate water supplies and pose health risks worldwide. Their work examined whether specific bacterial isolates could help degrade these compounds in an environmentally sustainable way.

Both students were motivated by real-world concerns — environmental impact, human health, and the responsibility to solve problems created by modern industry.

“We want to help address the root causes,” Awan said. “If there’s a way to remove harmful compounds safely and responsibly, that could make a real difference for people.”

Moon added that science offers something uniquely powerful: the ability to create solutions where none existed before.

“Science is about solving problems in creative ways,” he said. “It shows that there is always more to discover — and that we can fix the problems we create.”

Across the room, fellow Martin Luther King High School junior Alyna Burgett presented research on nematodes as natural pest control agents — a potential alternative to chemical pesticides, particularly in regions where agricultural sustainability is critical.

Burgett has spent nearly a year on the project and hopes to continue research in entomology — ideally at UC Riverside, home to one of the world’s leading programs in the field.

“I want to be in a research lab,” she said. “I want to study insects all day. That’s the goal.”

A shared investment in the future

For CNAS leaders and RUSD educators alike, the science fair represents something larger than competition or recognition. It is about exposure, encouragement, and long-term opportunity.

It is also about strengthening a regional ecosystem of learning — one in which universities and school districts work together to cultivate curiosity from an early age.

“We want students to see that discovery is still happening,” Smith said. “That science is not finished — there are still problems to solve, questions to explore, and ideas waiting to be tested.”

For Atkinson, that message carries forward into the future of the region itself.

“This is how we build the next generation,” he said. “By showing students what is possible, by welcoming them onto campus, and by helping them see themselves as scientists.”

As students packed up their projects and prepared for the next stages of competition — including a community showcase and awards ceremony later in the week — one thing was clear: the day had offered more than evaluation. It had offered perspective, inspiration, and a glimpse of what lies ahead.

And for many young scientists walking out of HUB 302, college — and a future in science — felt a little closer than it had before.

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Inspire Science Opens Doors to the Future of Discovery

joanny — Sun, 08 Feb 2026 23:47:12 +0000

Inspire Science Opens Doors to the Future of Discovery joanny Sun, 02/08/2026 - 15:47 More Blog Posts February 08, 2026

On January 29, 2026, UC Riverside's HUB 302 was filled with an uncommon mix of people: high school students seeing a research campus for the first time, undergraduates imagining what might come next, graduate students reflecting on how far they’ve come, and faculty and campus leaders eager to meet them where they are.

The occasion was Inspire Science, a student-led symposium designed to demystify science careers and expand access to opportunity—and it began with a simple but powerful idea: students belong in science, and they always have.

The event was organized by the Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Graduate Student Association (BcMBGSA), led by Nelli Khudaverdyan, a fifth-year Ph.D. candidate in biochemistry and a proud first-generation scholar. A UCR alum herself, Khudaverdyan founded the BcMBGSA with a clear mission: to create the kinds of opportunities she once needed, but didn’t always see, and to make pathways into science more visible and more human.

“I wanted students to see their future selves,” Khudaverdyan said. “To meet people like them, who started where they started, and to understand that these opportunities are real—and that they belong here.”

Inspire Science marked the first phase of a larger outreach and mentorship initiative. The symposium brought together approximately 50 students and teachers from Ramona High School, more than 200 undergraduate and graduate students, postdoctoral scholars, faculty, and campus leadership from across CNAS and beyond. Throughout the day, speakers shared not just their research, but their stories—moments of uncertainty, nontraditional paths, and the realities of building a life in science.

Opening remarks from CNAS Dean Peter Atkinson set the tone, emphasizing the long arc of discovery and the urgency of the challenges ahead—from sustainability and climate change to human health and agriculture.

“Science matters,” Atkinson told the audience. “You will be the ones who help solve the world’s most serious problems—and you’ll do it together, in collaboration with people who share your curiosity and your commitment.”

The program unfolded intentionally. Faculty and graduate advisors spoke about academic pathways. Graduate students presented research in accessible, non-technical ways. Lunchtime conversations paired faculty with small groups of students, supported by guided questions to encourage dialogue. In the afternoon, high school students moved through a poster session—many encountering a scientific conference for the very first time—asking questions, making connections, and seeing themselves reflected in the people around them.

What made Inspire Science especially notable was not only its scale, but its model. While fully student-conceived and student-coordinated, the event was made possible through strong departmental and CNAS support—from sponsorship and logistics to leadership presence and encouragement. That partnership sent a clear message: meaningful recruitment and outreach can start anywhere, and when good ideas are supported, they can grow quickly and powerfully.

The symposium is only the beginning. In the coming months, participating students will be invited into a structured mentorship program, connecting them with graduate mentors, research labs, and guidance on navigating academic and professional pathways.

For Khudaverdyan, that continuity is essential. “The hardest part was building the foundation,” she said. “Now it’s there. All it takes is passionate students willing to say, ‘Let’s do this.’”

And for everyone who attended, the message was clear: science is not a distant destination. It’s a door—and it’s already open.

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Val Verde Students Bring Curiosity and Creativity to UCR for First-Ever District Science Fair at CNAS

joanny — Sun, 08 Feb 2026 22:59:58 +0000

Val Verde Students Bring Curiosity and Creativity to UCR for First-Ever District Science Fair at CNAS joanny Sun, 02/08/2026 - 14:59 More College News January 26, 2026

For many Val Verde Unified School District students, stepping onto the UC Riverside campus on Friday, Jan. 23, marked their first time visiting a major research university. By the end of the day, they weren’t just visitors — they were scientists.

Val Verde USD students gathered at UCR for the district’s first-ever science fair hosted by UC Riverside’s College of Natural & Agricultural Sciences (CNAS), presenting projects that explored topics ranging from physics and engineering to environmental science and human health. The event brought together K–12 students, teachers, district leaders, and UCR faculty, researchers, and students in a day centered on curiosity, discovery, and mentorship.

“This wasn’t just about competition,” said Leonesa Sanchez, Val Verde USD Science TOSA and one of the event’s organizers. “It was about giving students the experience of being on a university campus, talking with scientists, and realizing that they belong in spaces like this.”

A Partnership Rooted in Access and Opportunity

Hosting the science fair at UCR was a deliberate choice — one aimed at expanding access to higher education and showing students what’s possible when classroom learning connects to real-world science.

“This event reflects what CNAS values,” said Stephanie Dingwall, CNAS Divisional Dean of Student Academic Affairs. “We want students to see science as something they can participate in, contribute to, and build a future around. Opening our doors to Val Verde students is part of that mission.”

Dingwall emphasized that the science fair represents more than a single-day event. It’s part of CNAS’s broader commitment to community engagement, mentorship, and building pathways into STEM fields for local students.

Scientists at Every Stage Giving Back

One of the defining features of the science fair was the range of judges who volunteered their time — including CNAS faculty, postdoctoral scholars, graduate students, K–12 educators, and CNAS alumni.

CNAS biochemistry faculty member Sarah Radi, who served as a judge, said she was impressed by both the quality of the projects and the confidence students showed in explaining their work.

“You could tell how much thought and care went into these projects,” Radi said. “Students weren’t just presenting results — they understood their process, their challenges, and what they learned.”

Alex De La Vega, a CNAS postdoctoral researcher in the Department of Physics and Astronomy and science fair judge, echoed that sentiment, noting that the fair gave students an authentic glimpse into scientific thinking.

“This is what science looks like,” De La Vega said. “Asking questions, testing ideas, and being open to what the data tells you.”

Val Verde educators Ben Goodwin and Darshak Shah, both of whom served as judges, highlighted the importance of students seeing familiar faces alongside university scientists — especially for those considering futures in STEM. Shah, a CNAS alum, said returning to campus as a judge felt especially meaningful.

“I see myself in these students,” Shah said. “Being here shows them that these pathways are real and attainable.”

Students Finding Their Voice in Science

For students like Andrew Del Villar, Francine Habacon, and Noah Doney, the fair was both exciting and affirming. Presenting their projects on a university campus — and receiving feedback from scientists — helped them see their work in a new light.

“It made me feel like what I was doing really mattered,” one student shared. “I could actually see myself doing this in the future.”

That sense of belonging was reinforced by CNAS Science Ambassadors Saalar Zarnegar and Camilla Hernandez, who spent the day answering questions, guiding students through the space, and sharing their own experiences as UCR undergraduates.

“We want them to know that they belong here,” one ambassador said. “We were in their shoes once.”

Looking Ahead

As the science fair wrapped up, the energy in the room was unmistakable — students lingering by posters, judges offering final words of encouragement, and educators already talking about next year.

For CNAS and Val Verde USD, the day marked the beginning of what both see as a growing partnership rooted in shared values: access, mentorship, and the power of science education to open doors.

“When students can see themselves as scientists,” Sanchez said, “it changes everything.”

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R’STEM Find Your Research Match Connects Students with Research Opportunities

joanny — Wed, 04 Feb 2026 00:18:26 +0000

R’STEM Find Your Research Match Connects Students with Research Opportunities joanny Tue, 02/03/2026 - 16:18 More Blog Posts February 03, 2026

Students looking to take the next step in their academic journeys had the opportunity to connect directly with faculty, graduate students, and campus partners during the R’STEM Find Your Research Match event, held on February 3, 2026, from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. in HUB 302.

A collaborative effort between the College of Natural and Agricultural Sciences (CNAS), the Bourns College of Engineering (BCOE), and Associated Students of UCR (ASUCR), the event was designed to bridge the gap between students and tangible research opportunities across disciplines. The event brought together students eager to get involved in research with mentors actively seeking undergraduate researchers for labs, projects, and ongoing initiatives.

Throughout the afternoon, students moved from table to table, learning about a wide range of research areas and gaining insight into how to get started—whether through formal lab placements, independent research, or faculty-mentored projects.

For many students, the R’STEM Find Your Research Match demystified the research process. “It helped make research feel more accessible,” said Mabel Tan, a CNAS Peer Mentor who tabled at the event. “Sometimes it’s intimidating to reach out to professors on your own, but this made it easier to ask questions and understand what opportunities are actually out there.”

Organizers emphasized that the event was intentionally designed to support students at all stages, including those who may not yet have research experience. “We wanted students to see that you don’t have to have everything figured out to get involved,” said Liz Jimenez, Manager of Transfer Success Programs, who helped coordinate the event. “This is about starting conversations and building connections.”

Campus staff, faculty, and graduate students also welcomed the chance to speak directly with undergraduates. “Events like this allow us to meet students who are genuinely curious and motivated,” said Karina Augustus, Career Specialist with the UCR Career Center, who also tabled at the event. “It’s a great way to match interests on both sides.”

In addition to learning about specific projects, students gained valuable advice on preparing for research roles, including how to follow up with potential mentors, communicate interests clearly, and build confidence when pursuing opportunities outside the classroom.

By bringing together multiple colleges and student leadership, R’STEM Find Your Research Match highlighted UCR’s commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration and student success. Organizers hope the event will encourage more students—particularly those new to research—to take that first step toward hands-on learning and discovery.

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CNAS Graduate Students Support REACH Leadership STEAM Academy Science Fair

joanny — Tue, 03 Feb 2026 02:16:59 +0000

CNAS Graduate Students Support REACH Leadership STEAM Academy Science Fair joanny Mon, 02/02/2026 - 18:16 More Blog Posts January 22, 2026

On January 22, 2026, REACH Leadership STEAM Academy in Riverside hosted its annual science fair, welcoming students, educators, and community partners for a late-afternoon event that highlighted curiosity, experimentation, and discovery. UC Riverside’s College of Natural & Agricultural Sciences (CNAS) participated by sending graduate students to serve as judges and mentors, reinforcing the college’s commitment to community engagement, science education, and local recruitment.

The REACH Leadership STEAM Academy science fair marked the first of several regional science fairs supported by CNAS this month. CNAS graduate students also participated in the Val Verde Unified School District Science and Engineering Fair on Friday, January 23 and will serve as judges at the Riverside Unified School District Science and Engineering Fair on Tuesday, January 27. Together, these efforts reflect CNAS’s ongoing goal of being a consistent and visible partner in Inland Empire schools.

REACH Leadership STEAM Academy Vice Principal Toiya Allen said hosting a science fair—and welcoming university partners—helps students connect classroom learning to real-world possibilities.

“Having graduate students here shows our students what’s possible,” Allen said. “They get to interact with people who are actively studying and working in science, and that helps make science feel real and attainable.”

During the science fair, REACH students presented projects exploring a wide range of scientific questions. CNAS graduate student judges circulated throughout the event, engaging students in conversation, asking questions about their methods and findings, and offering encouragement and feedback.

Stephanie Dingwall, Divisional Dean of Student Academic Affairs for CNAS, said

participation in local science fairs is a meaningful way for the college to support early interest in STEM while building long-term relationships with schools and families.

“These science fairs are about showing up for our community,” Dingwall said. “CNAS wants to be a partner—to encourage students’ passion for science, support educators, and help students see themselves as future college students and scientists.”

Dingwall emphasized that CNAS graduate students play a particularly important role in these efforts by serving as near-peer mentors who can help demystify higher education and research pathways.

Among the CNAS participants was Cameron Zappetta, an M.S. student with the Biochemistry & Molecular Biology (BMB) program, who said he was impressed by the level of thought and engagement students brought to their projects.

“You could tell students had really spent time thinking through their ideas,” Zappetta said. “They were excited to explain their work and answer questions, and that kind of curiosity is exactly what science is about.”

Camille Groneck, a Ph.D. student in the Cell, Molecular, and Developmental Biology program, described the experience as a reminder of why outreach and mentorship matter.

“Seeing students so engaged and enthusiastic about science is incredibly motivating,” Groneck said. “Opportunities like this can spark confidence and help students realize they belong in science.”

For Reuben Franklin, a postdoc with the Biochemistry & Molecular Biology program, who also received his Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from UCR, shared that serving as a judge was a way to give back and support the next generation of scientists.

“Moments like this can really shape how students think about their futures,” Franklin said. “Being able to encourage them and take their ideas seriously is important.”

Allen said the presence of CNAS graduate students added depth and excitement to the science fair experience.

“Our students benefit from having conversations with people who are further along in their academic journeys,” she said. “It helps them build confidence and see new possibilities for themselves.”

As CNAS continues its participation in regional science fairs across Riverside County, the focus remains on strengthening community partnerships, encouraging curiosity, and supporting students at every stage of their educational journey. By engaging with students early and often, CNAS aims to inspire future scientists while reinforcing UC Riverside’s role as a committed and accessible community partner.

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For the CNAS Class of 2025, One Journey Ends and Another Begins

tomwt — Tue, 17 Jun 2025 22:03:01 +0000

For the CNAS Class of 2025, One Journey Ends and Another Begins tomwt Tue, 06/17/2025 - 15:03 More College News June 17, 2025

CNAS Dean Peter Atkinson had some special wisdom he wanted to impart to students making up the college’s 71st graduating class during commencement ceremonies held on June 16 at the Toyota Arena in Ontario, CA. “Science matters,” he said, “and science is never finished. Every answer leads to a new question. Every theory invites deeper exploration. Your journey doesn't end here—it evolves from here. Today, we celebrate that evolution.”

And so, for more than 1,300 undergraduate students receiving their Bachelor’s degrees and over 60 graduate students accepting their Master’s degrees, the journey of discovery that began at CNAS continues into the future, always evolving toward new horizons.

CNAS Dean Peter Atkinson

Dean Atkinson remarked with pride that, in just the past year, CNAS faculty, staff, and students have made discoveries of national and international impact across multiple scientific disciplines, including uncovering chemicals produced by plants that enable healthier crops, developing new technology to better detect the gravitational waves predicted by Einstein, and bringing to light fresh insights on a biochemical pathway that may provide treatments for epilepsy and autism.

“There are numerous other examples, several in any given week throughout any given year,” Dean Atkinson said. “Today, you join the thousands of Highlanders who have gone on to shape industries, influence science, educate future generations, and transform lives. You’ve become a community of scholars who adapted, created, and persevered.

“And you did it at a university that reflects the future of higher education in our country,” he added. “UCR is consistently ranked No. 1 in the nation for social mobility; it’s a testament to how many of you are the first in your families to walk across this stage. We are proud to be among the leading research institutions in the country with a student body that reflects the richness of California and the energy of the Inland Empire.”

The academic procession at commencement was led by the UCR Pipe Band dressed in tartans. Presiding over the session were Grand Marshal Kenneth Barish, Chair of the UCR Academic Senate and Professor of Physics; Commencement Marshal Saba Najafi (Biology) walking with the College Banner; Graduate Student Marshal Melia Mariano (Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Master’s degree) walking with the Master’s of Science Banner; and Undergraduate Student Marshal Lily Doan Vo (Neuroscience) walking with the Bachelor’s of Science Banner. The National Anthem was sung by Alyssa Marie Brand (Neuroscience).

Although the day belonged to all the graduates, it was also a momentous occasion for UCR’s ninth Chancellor Kim A. Wilcox who for more than a decade has championed student success at the college. The CNAS commencement on June 16 marked Chancellor Wilcox’s final ceremony as UCR’s leader which, under his tenure, has grown in size, reputation, and impact. In his remarks, Chancellor Wilcox, spoke about the connection that alums forever share with UCR and the responsibility that stems from that relationship. “Now we have a responsibility to each other,” he said. “We have a responsibility to make sure your university gets better every day, because, as it does, your degree becomes more valuable every day. And, in turn, you have a responsibility to make us proud -- to do the things that reflect well on UCR and raise our collective esteem and visibility.”

UCR Chancellor Kim Wilcox

Chancellor Wilcox cautioned that he felt this year was different from years past; that for the first time in his life the creation of knowledge at universities across the country is at risk of being dismantled. He said that it was late in World War II when a group of leaders in government recognized the U.S. was victorious in part due to our accrued knowledge in science and technology.

“They set about to create a system in America like no other in the world where universities and the government worked together to create the knowledge that makes America great,” Chancellor Wilcox said. “That relationship has lasted 80 years. And it’s not just science and technology; it’s the whole notion that we as universities have a responsibility to help you become independent thinkers and judges of society. And that’s at risk.

“So I stand here today extremely proud of what you’ve accomplished and excited about your future,” he continued. “And I hope that your abilities, your wisdom and what you’ve learned at UCR will help you make sure our world stay as it has for the last 80 years, a place where wisdom, knowledge, independent thought continues to be valued.”

Standouts

During commencement ceremonies several students were cited for outstanding achievements. Hannah Jeanette Moore was recognized with CNAS’ Outstanding Achievement Award. She was selected by the CNAS Divisional Deans from among the Academic Excellence Award winners for exemplary performance in one or more of the following areas: academics and research, creative activity, service to the college, and demonstrated leadership.

Arnav Kacker (Biology) and Theodore Adams (Entomology) were honored with the Rosemary S.J. Schraer Award which recognizes two graduating seniors for academic excellence. The award was named after Ms. Schraer who served as UCR Chancellor from 1987-1992.

CNAS graduates were also recognized with the college Academic Excellence Awards which are bestowed for achievement in academics and research or creative activity. The award winners are: Hannah Jeanette Moore (Biochemistry), Theodore Adams (Entomology), Naran Luvsanravdan (Biology), Lina Mai (Chemistry), Eve Fraczkiewicz (Data Science), Liem Nguyen (Environmental Sciences), Jason Patrick Palos (Mathematics), Michelle Thanh Pham (Mathematics for Teachers of Secondary School), Anastasia Ghilenschi Colton (Microbiology), Tara Duo Gao (Neuroscience), Shane Levin (Physics), Abigail Noguera (Plant Biology), Srisai Saavarni Chilukuri (Statistics), and Samiha Alan (Cell, Molecular & Developmental Biology).

Alyssa Marie Brand (Neuroscience) showcased the exceptional talent of CNAS students by delivering the only live performance of the National Anthem across all six UCR commencement ceremonies, bringing a uniquely personal and powerful touch to the celebration.

CNAS Student Commencement Speaker, Dina Mirmotalebisohi

In her student speaker commencement address, Dina Mirmotalebisohi (Biology) touched on the change that all students experience during their college careers. “I have heard my friends say they would barely recognize the person they were four years ago,” she said. “However, there is a part of me that strongly recognizes her, the girl who struggled to find the feeling of belonging until she came to UCR. Among being one of the most diverse campuses in the nation, I truly believe the level of inclusivity we host here is unmatched. I do belong. We all belong.”

After conferring the degrees, it was time for Ria Nair (Cell, Molecular & Developmental Biology) to lead the graduates in singing UCR’s Alma Mater, “Hail Fair UCR” followed by the traditional Baccalaureate Tassel-Turning (always right to left) headed by Abby Choy (Biology).

As the recessional wended its way to the exit doors of the cavernous Toyota Arena, there was much to process for students and their families about the communal experience that is at the heart of UCR. But as graduates of the CNAS Class of ’25 prepare themselves for their own singular journeys in the months and years that lay ahead, Ms. Mirmotalebisohi encouraged her fellow Highlanders to take time to revel in the present moment they’ve worked so hard to achieve. “We count the days so often, we forget to count the seconds,” she said. Quoting the 12th century Persian poet and polymath, Omar Khayyam, she added: “Let us not grieve for what may come tomorrow; instead, let us treasure this fleeting breath we borrow.”

Visit the CNAS Commencement page

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CNAS student Maritssa Nolasco wins 2025 ASA/CSSA/SSSA National Student Recognition Award

owenw — Wed, 28 May 2025 17:41:22 +0000

CNAS student Maritssa Nolasco wins 2025 ASA/CSSA/SSSA National Student Recognition Award owenw Wed, 05/28/2025 - 10:41 More Blog Posts May 30, 2025

Maritssa Nolasco, a fourth-year Mathematics for Teachers of Secondary School (MTSS) major at the UC Riverside College of Natural & Agricultural Sciences and a Digital Agriculture Fellowship (DAF) participant, has been awarded the 2025 National Student Recognition award.

Co-sponsored by the American Society of Agronomy (ASA), the Crop Science Society of America (CSSA) and the Soil Science Society of America (SSSA), the award is given annually in recognition of scholastic achievements, including research.

"Maritssa was a great member of my team," says Dr. Elia Scudiero, Associate Professor of Precision Agriculture and Agronomy and DAF coordinator. "She had a constant enthusiasm for learning new things, and was a great team player when helping other lab members."

Maritssa Nolasco

Maritssa grew up in the Coachella Valley, and found herself interested in agriculture from an early age. "In the valley, you see farmers, a lot of soil, a lot of [food] production," she says. "Every time I would pass by, I would think, 'I wonder what goes into this...how does the produce grow?'"

"Maritssa grew up surrounded by agriculture, but never had the chance to get involved with it until she became a DAF student," explains Dr. Scudiero. "I hope she will consider the agricultural sector as a possible future career."

Despite her interest in agriculture, Maritssa came to UC Riverside to pursue another subject: math, and more specifically to become a certified math instructor.

"In high school, my math teachers would ask me to tutor the other students or help them with their homework," explains Maritssa. "My students would say, 'Oh, you teach really well!' I thought, okay, this is my calling...that's why I applied to UC Riverside and enrolled in the Mathematics for Teachers of Secondary School (MTSS) major."

Maritssa credits a visit to UC Riverside's campus as a ninth grader with helping her decide to enroll at the university. "Once I stepped foot on campus, I saw that all the students looked really happy to be here," she remembers. "They were really nice, too...when I would ask questions they would immediately talk to me. It felt like a very friendly environment, and not competitive at all. I really liked that, because I could tell we'd all help each other out."

After she enrolled at UC Riverside, Maritssa learned about a unique opportunity for budding teachers during her freshman seminar, the California Teach-Science and Mathematics (CalTeach-SMI) Initiative, a UC systemwide program providing STEM undergraduate majors with opportunities to explore STEM teaching as they complete their STEM degrees. Maritssa joined the initiative to help prepare for the eventual challenges of teaching in a classroom.

"CalTeach-SMI gives you field experience," explains Maritssa. "You actually get into the classroom and teach lessons. Coming into the program, I was really shy, but these fieldwork experiences, where I'm actually in the classroom observing or teaching a lesson, really helped me find my voice as a teacher."

"During Maritssa's three years of involvement, I've seen her come out of her shyness, becoming a confident and competent leader," says Leslie Bushong, Director of CalTeach-SMI. "She is friendly, creative, and always eager to assist...a natural teacher!"

While preparing for her career as a teacher, Maritssa also kept an eye out for opportunities to explore her interest in math in different contexts. An opportunity presented itself at the end of her freshman year, when she applied for the Digital Agriculture Fellowship (DAF).

"I wanted to see of there was another pathway with math that I wanted to explore as a career," says Maritssa. "Being in the DAF program, you area also placed in the Research in Science & Engineering (RISE) summer research program, so that's how I found out about RISE."

"RISE transforms undergraduate students into undergraduate researchers by providing them with an opportunity to work one-on-one with a faculty mentor on a research project," says Noel Salunga, Assistant Director for Student Success and RISE director. "Participants also get to be part of a summer undergraduate research community that also offers professional development workshops and community building events."

Maritssa remembers being pleasantly surprised by the diversity of the digital agriculture field. "You can work with drones, you can map fields using ArcGIS Pro...it's nice because you really don't have to have much experience in research at all...they help you through everything!"

"Maritssa used on-the-go gamma-ray spectrometry to characterize soil spatial variability in lettuce fields in the Salinas Valley," explains Dr. Scudiero. "Fields with high soil spatial variability are often sites where water and fertilizers are overused, causing a high environmental footprint from agricultural practices. Mari also used high-resolution satellite data to track crop growth and understand its response to soil spatial variability."

While Maritssa admits there was a bit of a learning curve at the beginning of her fellowship, she credits Dr. Scudiero's lab with supporting her throughout her research projects. "When I first started, I new nothing about soil," remembers Maritssa. "We started off slow...I started learning about their research and then moved to doing hands-on soil research. I was really surprised by how welcoming the lab was...I came in knowing nothing and they still took the time to teach me everything!"

Among the many different facets of the DAF fellowship, Maritssa says she enjoyed putting her math skills to work in a new way. "With each soil sample, I was taking and analyzing data and then putting it into ArcGIS, which I had to learn as well. It was cool seeing how you can make data maps that tell you how much water is in the soil and how it affects the growth!"

Despite her lack of experience, Dr. Scudiero describes Maritssa's research as impactful. "At the beginning of her fellowship, Maritssa was a novice in the field of precision agriculture and geographic information systems," says Dr. Scudiero. "Through her time in my lab, her research and analytical sills improved remarkable. Maritssa's research represents a step toward increasing water and fertilizer use sustainability in the Salinas Valley."

"Dr. Scudiero was wonderful and amazing," remembers Maritssa. "He was very welcoming and kind, and very reassuring that it was okay that I didn't know that much about this field."

As a result of her research and scholarly contributions, Mari was also awarded the 2023 Golden Scholar Opportunity by the American Society of Agronomy, which enabled her to present her work at conferences in Fresno, CA and St. Louis, MO.

According to the ASA, the Golden Scholar Opportunity serves to "develop the agronomy, crops, soils, and environmental sciences professions by strengthening the next generation of leaders in the profession."

When Noel asked her to serve as a peer mentor for the DAF program, Mari used her experience to advise other students about scientific presentations.

"One of the questions that came up a lot was DAF participants feeling nervous about having to present their research posters," says Maritssa. "I told them to imagine their audiences were classmates, because that's what really helped me...I told students to not be nervous because the audience will see those nerves. You want your audience to know that you're confident in your research."

"Maritssa was able to share her journey with the students, both as a peer mentor and student assistant during the summer and academic year," says Noel. "She helped DAF students navigate the challenges and stresses of undergraduate research. She is a great example of how, if you are inquisitive about research, work hard to learn with a professor, and open-minded about exploring new fields, you can thrive."

According to Maritssa, serving as a DAF peer mentor gave her the opportunity pay her experience forward. "I got to talk about my experiences, and because I was already in the program, the students felt comfortable coming to me about their research and abstracts," says Maritssa. "It was a nice way to help them out and give them the help I know I would've wanted in the DAF program."

For students considering DAF in the future, Maritssa's advice is simple.

"Definitely apply!" she says. "Even if you don't have that much research experience, you'll learn along the way. DAF really gives you the opportunity to explore your options in that career and research."

After graduation this June, Maritssa will return to UC Riverside to continue working towards becoming a teacher. "I'm entering the UC Riverside credential and master's program for teaching in single-subject math," she says. "I'm looking forward to helping my students and supporting them throughout the math classes I'm going to be teaching."

As she reflects on her UC Riverside experience, Maritssa credits the relationships she built along the way with helping her thrive. "It was pretty amazing!" she remembers. "You build these relationships with other peers...I'm still friends with the students I met during my first year in the dorms. Being a peer mentor and a part of the CalTeach-SMI and DAF programs...it's been helpful sharing my experience with my peers."

Maritssa continues, "These different experiences really helped to mold who I am today, and who I want to be in the future."

MORE ABOUT THE DIGITAL AGRICULTURE FELLOWSHIP

ASK A CNAS PROF: ELIA SCUDIERO

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CNAS Awards 2025: Honoring student achievement, innovative research, and scientific community impact

owenw — Mon, 19 May 2025 22:08:19 +0000

CNAS Awards 2025: Honoring student achievement, innovative research, and scientific community impact owenw Mon, 05/19/2025 - 15:08 More College News May 22, 2025

Each year, the UC Riverside College of Natural & Agricultural Sciences (CNAS) proudly recognizes a select group of students who have distinguished themselves through exceptional academic achievements, innovative research, and a commitment to making a positive impact on the science community.

These outstanding individuals are more than just award recipients—they are a testament to the transformative power of scientific exploration and education at CNAS. Their achievements reflect the very best of what CNAS has to offer, demonstrating not only intellectual excellence but also resilience, leadership, and a passion for discovery.

We are honored to celebrate these remarkable students and their accomplishments:

2025 CNAS Outstanding Achievement Award

The Outstanding Achievement Award recognizes one graduating senior from the entire college, selected from the Rosemary S. J. Schraer Award nominations, for their exemplary achievement in academics, research or creative activity, their breadth of involvement within the college, and their commitment to service and citizenship.

Hannah Jeanette Moore
CNAS Outstanding Achievement Award
Academic Excellence Award
Rosemary S. J. Schraer Award Nominee
Biochemistry major Hannah Jeanette Moore began working in Dr. Hollis Woodard’s lab during her second year, managing an experiment designed by a graduate student, before developing her own experiment to examine the impact of starvation on bumble bee pheromones. This research, conducted in collaboration with Dr. Kerry Mauck and Dr. Jocelyn G. Millar, was funded by the Chancellor’s Research Fellowship and presented at the Entomological Society of America’s annual meeting. In her third year, Hannah also joined Dr. Samuel Mann’s lab, where she designed de novo protein scaffolds with the goal of studying P450-like intermediates, research she later presented at the annual SoCal Bioinorganic meeting. Outside of her research, Hannah worked as a learning assistant for Dr. Matthew Casselman, supporting undergraduate chemistry education, and has been on the Dean’s list every quarter at UC Riverside.

2025 Rosemary S.J. Schraer Award

In honor of Rosemary S.J. Schraer, who served as UCR Chancellor from 1987-1992, the Schraer Award recognizes two graduating seniors from the entire college for their academic excellence, leadership, and participation in activities.

Arnav Kacker
Rosemary S.J. Schraer Award
Biology major Arnav Kacker is a stellar student at UC Riverside. He wrote a successful minigrant proposal on the “Synthesis and Alkylation of the Chemotherapeutic Molecule Bersavine and Derivative Molecules” that was funded. He is also co-author on two recent publications on the synthesis of biomedically relevant natural products, and will be the first author on an upcoming chemoproteomics study. He maintains a 4.0 GPA and has been admitted to the University of California, San Diego and the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign’s medical school programs.

Theodore Adams
Rosemary S.J. Schraer Award
Academic Excellence Award
Entomology major Theodore Adams is a highly motivated and accomplished undergraduate with a strong record of academic and research excellence. As an undergraduate researcher in Dr. Mark Hoddle’s lab for over a year, he has actively contributed to ongoing projects, including supervised research on cotton seed bug egg population dynamics and surveys for egg parasitoids of this pest. His dedication is evident in over 600 hours of data collection. Beyond research, Theodore demonstrates leadership as co-president of the Botany and Entomology Undergraduate Student Association, where he plans their weekly meetings, recruits new members, and communicates with faculty about events. His academic achievements are consistently outstanding, earning him Dean’s List honors each quarter.

2025 Academic Excellence Award

The Academic Excellence Award for the College of Natural & Agricultural Sciences recognizes one graduating senior who are selected by faculty from each major for their academic success, research, and/or creative activity.

Biology
Naran Luvsanravdan
Naran Luvsanravdan has undertaken two undergraduate research projects over two years while at UC Riverside. In Dr. Margarita Curras-Collazo’s Neuroendocrinology Lab, she studied how environmental toxicants such as PBDEs disrupt the social brain to cause autistic-like traits. She received 3 UC Student Minigrants and one travel mini-grant while at UC Riverside to carry out her research studies. Naran has presented her research findings at the 2023 RISE Symposium and 2024 UCR Undergraduate Symposium, and will be presenting her findings at the 2025 Physiology Summit, sponsored by an international professional society, the American Physiological Society. She is a co-author on several abstracts submitted by the Curras-Collazo lab and is a co-author on a manuscript currently in preparation. In addition to research, Naran worked as a COPE Health Scholar, member of the Mini-Medical School and UCR Highlander Emergency Medical Society, and President of the Chinese Student Association, all while receiving Dean’s or Chancellor’s Honors list every quarter.

Cell, Molecular, and Developmental Biology
Samiha Alam
Samiha Alam has undertaken two undergraduate research projects over three years while at UC Riverside. Samiha extracted and studied chromatophores from the bacteria in the Quantum Materials Optoelectronics Lab, and later studied gut-brain interactions that contribute to Gulf War Illness in a mouse model in Dr. Margarita Curras-Collazo’s Neuroendocrinology Lab. She received two UC Student Minigrants to carry out her recent study and presented her research findings at the Spring UCR Undergraduate Symposium. She is a co-author on several abstracts submitted by the Curras-Collazo lab and is a co-author on a manuscript in preparation. In addition to research, Samiha worked as a COPE Health Scholar and Leader, providing patient care in multiple clinical areas, all while receiving Dean’s list honors every quarter.

Chemistry
Lina Mai
Lina Mai spent three summers as a research intern in Dr. Thuy Doan’s biomedical lab at the University of California, San Francisco, where she used RNA deep sequencing to identify pathogens and antimicrobial resistance in nasal and conjunctival swabs. With an interest in pharmaceutical sciences and after completing the organic chemistry series, she joined Dr. Kevin Kou’s lab in the Fall of 2023. Over the past 18 months, Lina has contributed to three projects spanning methodology development, natural product semi-synthesis, and total synthesis. Her work on the semi-synthesis of bersavine derivatives resulted in the identification of a series of potent anti-leukemia molecules and co-authorship on a study recently published in Organic and Biomolecular Chemistry. She is currently developing a new chemical reaction to enable the total synthesis of bersavine and related natural products. After graduation, Lina plans to work in industry for a year to gain additional synthesis experience in medicinal chemistry and then pursue graduate studies in organic chemistry.

Data Science
Eve Caroline Fraczkiewicz
Eve Fraczkiewicz's strong performance in both STAT 169 and STAT 171 demonstrated her deep understanding and genuine passion for statistics. Throughout both courses, she was consistently attentive, thoughtful, and highly engaged with the material. In STAT 171, she stood out as a team player and natural leader in her group project, taking initiative in model development and clearly communicating statistical findings. Beyond the classroom, Eve has built an impressive portfolio, including leading an R'Workshop at the Women in Data Science Conference, completing multiple applied machine learning and data scraping projects, and conducting research through UC Riverside’s RISE program on distinguishing AI-generated from human-written text. Her combination of academic strength, initiative, and leadership make her highly deserving of recognition.

Earth and Planetary Sciences, Geology, Geophysics
Qirui Lin
Qirui Lin has worked within Dr. Maryjo Brounce’s lab for three years, analyzing the critical mineral content of rock samples from the Salton Sea as part of a project funded by the Department of Energy. He received the McKibben-Turner Scholarship in 2025. In addition to research, Qirui worked as a Highlander Orientation Leader, a Campus Escort, a test writer and Chemistry helper for three Science Olympiads, was an active member of four student organizations (Geology, Chemistry, Environmental Sciences and Cheese), worked as a Museum Assistant in the Geology Museum, and earned Dean’s list honors every quarter, and Chancellor’s list honors every year as a dual major in Geology and Environmental Sciences.

Environmental Sciences
Liem Nguyen
Liem Nguyen has demonstrated exceptional academic performance since starting at UCR in Fall 2021. Liem has consistently earned a place on either the Dean’s Honors List or the Chancellor’s Honors List every single quarter and shown remarkable dedication to academic excellence.

Mathematics
Jason Patrick Palos
Jason has been actively involved in research on neutrophil chemotaxis dynamics with Dr. Qixuan Wang and active matter transport with Mykhailo Potomkin. The results of both projects are being submitted for publication, with Jason as co-first author on one paper. He will be attending graduate school at the University of Minnesota as an NSF graduate fellow.

Mathematics for Teachers of Secondary School
Michelle Thanh Pham
In addition to her excellent grades, Michelle has worked as one of the Mathematics Department’s first student lab leaders for the new Math 003 course. This year, she has also served as the president of the “Tomorrow’s Teachers in Science and Math” student organization.

Microbiology
Anastasia Ghilenschi Colton
Anastasia Ghilenschi-Colton received a UC Student Minigrant and Campbell Research grant to carry out her research, and a Travel Minigrant to present her research findings at the upcoming annual conference for the American Physiology Society (APS). The APS awarded her a 2025 Barbara A. Horowitz and John M. Horowitz Outstanding Undergraduate Abstract Award for this work. Anastasia presented her research findings at the 2023 RISE Symposium, 2024 UCR Undergraduate Symposium, the 2024 MolMed Mini-symposium – Drug Development and Capacity Building and the 2025 Center for Glial-Neuronal Interactions Conference. She is an author on several abstracts and on a manuscript in preparation. Anastasia has earned other honors at UC Riverside, including the Regents Scholarship and Dean’s Honors list.

Neuroscience
Tara Duo Gao
Tara Duo Gao conducts research in Dr. Sachiko Haga-Yamanaka’s lab at UCR, where she investigates the neural basis of innate fear behaviors in mice. Her independent project examines the role of the medial amygdala in innate fear responses to olfactory predator cues. Recognized as a TRIO McNair Scholar and recipient of the Austin and Helen Riesen Neuroscience Award, Tara has presented her findings at multiple research conferences across California. Driven by her continued curiosity in neuroscience, she plans to pursue a Ph.D. at Caltech following graduation. Outside of academics, Tara continues to excel in piano and oriental dance, performing and competing at advanced levels.

Physics
Shane Levin
Shane Levin has worked in the research lab of Dr. Jonathan Richardson since the Fall of 2022. Her research contributions include the construction, commissioning, and monitoring of a Class 100 cleanroom which is used to assemble and test optical instruments developed in the Richardson lab at UCR for the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-wave Observatory (LIGO). She led the development of the lab’s LIGO real-time system, which is a self-contained version of the same system used to read out signals from and control the LIGO interferometers. She is a co-author on a journal article published in Physical Review Letters, which is the premier research journal of physics. She is an outstanding student and a regular participant in Physics and Astronomy outreach events. Shane won the Chancellor’s Research Fellowship and the Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Research. She has multiple offers of admission to some of the most selective physics Ph.D. programs in the country.

Plant Biology
Abigail Noguera
Abby Noguera's passion for research and academic excellence sets her apart. In Dr. Exequiel Ezcurra’s lab, Abby explores the ecological role of extrafloral nectaries in Ferocactus, contributing critical insight and independent research. She developed her own germination protocol for Ferocactus seeds—discovering rare tricotyledons in the species—and designed a project comparing the phenotypic plasticity of extrafloral nectaries in native habitats vs. botanic gardens. Abby is also a certified Nursery Master, skilled in native plant taxonomy and entomological collections. With previous research in lichen ecology and plant genetics, she brings both depth and versatility to her work. Among the top GPAs in Botany and Plant Sciences, Abby exemplifies scientific curiosity, initiative, and commitment to plant science and conservation.

Statistics
Srisai Saavarni Chilukuri
Srisai Saavarni Chilukuri has an exceptional breadth of research and public health experience. She was awarded “Best Insight” at the Biostatistics Symposium of Southern California for her poster presentation, reflecting her ability to communicate complex findings effectively. Her research includes a study on the impact of Alzheimer’s disease in Down Syndrome and late-onset populations using longitudinal models, and a public health internship where she led a quality improvement initiative to enhance tuberculosis reporting and address health disparities. With experience spanning regression analysis, big data, and bias mitigation in predictive modeling, she brings both technical depth and a passion for health equity to her work.

Congratulations to our students!

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