Current Scholars 2023 - 2024
ARCS Foundation Colorado Chapter Scholars 2023-2024
Universities:
COLORADO SCHOOL OF MINES
COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY
UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO ANSCHUTZ MEDICAL CAMPUS
UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO BOULDER
UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO COLORADO SPRINGS
UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO DENVER
COLORADO SCHOOL OF MINES
Katelyn Aasman
Patten Davis Foundation Scholar (1st year ARCS Scholar)
Major: BS, Chemical Engineering
Career Objective: To obtain a PhD in Biomedical Engineering and work in research and development in the biotechnology engineering industry.
Iron-sulfur (Fe-S) clusters are essential for life in many organisms, including Staphylococcus aureus, the bacteria that causes staph infection. In S. aureus, the sulfur mobilization (SUF)-like pathway is the only pathway in which Fe-S clusters are formed. Inhibition of any protein in the SUF-like pathway should prevent the formation of Fe-S clusters and result in bacterial cell death. The SUF-like pathway is not found in humans, making proteins in the SUF-like pathway ideal therapeutic targets against S. aureus. This research aims to structurally and kinetically characterize the first two enzymes along this pathway, SaSufS and SaSufU, to increase our fundamental understanding of the system and develop potential therapeutic agents against staph infections.
In my free time, I enjoy baking, running and swimming.
Emmelia Ashton
Harry L. Willett Foundation Scholar (1st year ARCS Scholar)
Major: BS, Metallurgical and Materials Engineering
Career Objective: I hope to pursue a career in research and development of novel materials that are sustainable, affordable, and safe for diverse applications.
I conduct research with the Transdisciplinary Nanostructured Materials Research Team. I work to engineer novel materials to address many problems currently faced. One of my projects is to characterize and understand the microstructure of medical device stainless steels to improve their safety and usefulness in medical procedures. I am also involved in a project working to create sustainable hard magnets out of abundant materials which would reduce manufacturing costs and improve accessibility to sustainable technologies including electric vehicles, wind turbines, and appliances.
I often spend weekends hiking, camping, and backpacking. I also enjoy gardening, reading, and baking. I enjoy knitting and crochet and am a member of the concert choir.
Andrew (Andy) Gebhardt
Harry L. Willett Foundation Scholar (2nd year ARCS Scholar)
Major: BS, Quantitative Biosciences and Engineering
Career Objective: I plan earn a PhD in either biomedical engineering or computational biology.
My research focuses on harnessing the power of algae to make clean and sustainable fuels. Algae contain a high percentage of lipids, which can be turned into eco-friendly biodiesel fuel. Maximizing lipid production by algae will reduce the cost of producing biofuels to provide a clean source of energy. I am working on the interactions between bacteria and algae in a region called the phycosphere, and how this symbiotic relationship can potentially increase the biodiesel production from algae.
I compete for Colorado School of Mines on the Track and Field team. I enjoy fishing, hunting, and skiing, as well as volleyball, spikeball, and reading.
Breanna (Bre) Hayes
Elnore & Ronald Grow Scholar (2nd year ARCS Scholar)
Major: BS, Chemical Engineering
Career Objective: I hope to work in the chemical production industry, either as a researcher or process engineer.
I will be working on creating a new catalyst by taking a zeolite, which is a porous material on a macroscopic level, and inserting silica around the active sites to allow for more selective reactions. There are many applications, including petrochemical reactions, most notably breaking carbon-carbon bonds to aid in the recycling of plastics and the creation of carbon-carbon bonds to create higher-quality renewable fuels.
I love dancing, skiing, and spending time with my family.
Alec Howard
Patten Davis Foundation Scholar (1st year ARCS Scholar)
Major: MS-Thesis, Mechanical Engineering
Career Objective: To create sustainable and efficient energy solutions.
My research is in next-generation batteries. I’m focused on understanding the fundamental properties of electrolytes, a class of battery materials. I combine benchtop experiments with physics-based theory and machine learning to develop an understanding of material behavior and its connection to electrolyte molecules. This is a new paradigm for developing next-gen batteries.
I play music, games of all kinds, draw, and enjoy time with my family and friends.
Arielle Koshkin
Harry L. Willett Foundation Scholar (1st year ARCS Scholar)
Major: PhD, Hydrological Science and Engineering
Career Objective: I hope to work at a national laboratory, research center, or federal agency in an applied research group, addressing resource scarcity hastened by climate change.
I research the way that wildfires are changing patterns of spring snowmelt. Wildfires decrease the amount of water stored in snow and alter the timing of the spring snow melt. I hope to develop methods to increase the accuracy of streamflow predictions in burned areas to optimize water storage in reservoirs. The geographical overlap between fire and snow is increasing, disrupting our ability to efficiently store water in the arid western US.
I enjoy spending time in the mountains with friends riding bikes, skiing and trail running.
Ryan McGinnis
Patten Davis Foundation Scholar (1st year ARCS Scholar)
Major: BS, Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, Energy
Career Objective: I plan to earn my PhD and conduct research advancing materials technology for energy applications.
My research focuses on identifying a clay and a process to produce low-cost, scalable technology for mass production of hydrogen from biofuels. I am examining how different natural clay compositions can be best processed to produce the desired microstructure and porosity. I hope this work will apply to a career in research of materials for energy applications.
My hobbies include: biking, skiing, hiking, painting, playing soccer and volleyball, sewing, woodworking, and forging. Although I was raised in Ohio, I call New Mexico home, where at age seven I started learning how to forge and fabricate.
Nabeeha Mubeen
Friends of ARCS Scholar (1st year ARCS Scholar)
Major: BS, Computer Science and BS, Engineering Physics
Career Objective: To obtain a PhD in Astrophysics, and develop advanced low-level language programs for the space industry.
I hope to develop low level software for deep space missions that uncover mysteries about this universe. I hope to understand the discoveries from those missions. I also hope to provide inspiration and mentorship to the next generation about this wonderful field as I continue to learn myself.
I enjoy hanging out with my friends as well as doing yoga. I also enjoy the TV show called Miraculous and I like to cosplay (costume play). I also love cars and hope to get my own Lexus RCF in my 20s as well as a Ninja 400 motorcycle.
Grace Rome
Susan Howard Scholar (3rd year ARCS Scholar)
Major: PhD, Materials Science PhD
Career Objective: To pursue a career as a renewable energy researcher
While renewable energy production is increasing each year, energy intensive applications such as aviation require too much energy for current batteries to be practical. Therefore, finding a carbon neutral way to create these needed fuels will be vital to a clean future.
I am utilizing a solar cell device to run a two-step electrochemical reaction that turns carbon dioxide into fuel. These solar cell devices are designed to have two voltages so that the two steps in the fuel-forming reaction can be performed more efficiently.
I enjoy rollerskating with several of my fellow PhD students. I especially love skating around Sloan’s Lake on sunny days. I also enjoy baking and cooking new recipes.
Marco Salgado
Harry L. Willett Foundation Scholar (1st year ARCS Scholar)
Major: BS, Chemical Engineering
Career Objective: I hope to earn a PhD in Chemical Engineering, teach at a university, and continue electrochemical research as a principal investigator.
I study the effects chemical reactions on electricity. My team focuses on developing materials for use in splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen gas, producing electricity from hydrogen fuels, and the reduction of carbon dioxide into more favorable products. Our goals are to contribute to the worldwide transition to renewable energy, to continue development of efficient, long-term energy storage in the form of hydrogen, and to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
I like to cook new dishes, play baseball, and spend time studying games like chess and topics like theology and history. I try to be a modern-day renaissance man, dipping my hands into anything that seems fun and interesting!
Sara Warix
Sarah and Brent Gephart Scholar (3rd year ARCS Scholar)
Major: PhD, Hydrologic Science and Engineering
Career Objective: I hope to be a US Geological Survey (USGS) Research Scientist
High-elevation mountain watersheds source downstream water supplies for municipal and agricultural uses. These watersheds are expected to be among first to exhibit a climate change response of decreased groundwater levels and streamflow. I am working to quantify how groundwater flow and storage change in space and time. Improved estimates of how long it takes water to move through a system, from snowmelt to groundwater to stream flow, will help develop better predictive models.
I like to play water polo, ski, and ride bikes in my free time.
COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY
Jesse Cole
Dr. Temple Grandin Honoree Scholar (1st year ARCS Scholar)
Major: DVM, PhD in Pathology
Career Objective: Board certification in anatomic pathology, conducting drug development research at the intersection of human and animal disease
My research is focused on the molecular mechanisms of peripheralization as well as the vertical transmission of Chronic Wasting Disease, a 100% fatal neurodegenerative brain disease that affects cervids (deer, elk, moose, reindeer). It is in the same family of prion diseases as Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (Mad Cow Disease), a disease in cattle associated with Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease in humans.
My interests include fly fishing, surfing, snowboarding, paddle boarding, and camping
in my truck. I am proudly a first generation college student adopted into a military family.
Jade Collins
Mary Ellen Owen Memorial Scholar (1st year ARCS Scholar)
Major: BS, Biology and Computer Science
Career Objective: To improve the quality of education in school systems, focusing on heightening collaboration within group dynamics and projects in STEM topics
My research involves training an artificial intelligence (AI) to recognize whether someone is pointing and what they are pointing to. The goal is to implement this in schools to gauge participation and facilitate communication in group discussion/project settings with the goal of ensuring group projects are beneficial and that everyone in the group is participating.
I love to read, do arts and crafts, cook and bake, and dance. I’m learning how to crochet, I’m proud to be from southern New Mexico.
Curtis Garrard
Harry L. Willett Foundation Scholar (1st year ARCS Scholar)
Major: BS, Electrical and Computer Engineering
Career Objective: To work in industry and ultimately start my own company
I have three main areas of interest: guided rocketry, affordable solar energy systems, and automation/robotics. Rocketry is important for launching commercial satellites, efficient green energy management is important to our continued response to climate change, and automation/robotics is important to manufacturing.
I enjoy exploring the mountains of Colorado and taking part in many outdoor activities including backpacking and fishing.
Alissa Morgan
Patten Davis Foundation Scholar (2nd year ARCS Scholar)
Major: BS, Computer Science
Career Objective: I hope to be a Senior Software Engineer at a technology company to make technology more accessible by providing opportunities to STEM students.
My research team analyzes cybersecurity professionals’ biases for penetration tactics and tools used. We’ve created and deployed an application to log data and send the logs to a database. The data are then exported for analysis by the phycologists on the team.
Currently we’re collecting data and modifying the User Interface (UI) to later deploy a new, upgraded application. I am part of the project team of five computer science students.
I’m a proud first generation Native American student, originally from Oklahoma. When I’m not studying or researching, I like to watch TV shows and movies! I also love to get outside when it’s warm to fish or hike.
Paloma Orozco
Barb & Don MacDonald Scholar (2nd year ARCS Scholar)
Major: DVM
Career Objective: To be a veterinarian in a mixed animal practice
The research I have been involved with is investigating the use of sheep as a better osteoporosis model than mice. By mimicking osteoporosis and collecting stem cell samples from sheep, we hope to create a better model for testing treatments and medications that can eventually be used in humans with this disease.
I am a first-generation Mexican-American and college graduate student. I enjoy spending time outdoors doing such things as paddle boarding, hiking, camping, and gardening.
After veterinary school I will be returning to Arizona to work as a veterinarian in a mixed animal practice.
Martin Perez Jaimes
Amy Davis Endowment Scholar (3rd year ARCS Scholar)
Major: DVM
Career Objective: I plan to continue my education in comparative medicine, researching zoonotic infectious disease
Currently, I am a part of the team working on a project titled “Immunotherapy to Prevent Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis.” The purpose of the project is to investigate the use of antimicrobial drugs against tuberculosis in conjunction with a vaccine and determine
if the duration of treatment can be shortened. Favorable results could provide better treatment plans for millions of people infected with tuberculosis and reduce the risk of drug resistance.
When outside of the teaching hospital, I like collecting trees for making bonsai, trying new recipes, and spending time outdoors.
George Poggemeyer
Harry L. Willett Foundation Scholar (2nd year ARCS Scholar)
Major: BS, Mechanical Engineering
Career Objective: To refine current energy production techniques with a focus on renewable energy
I intend to use my knowledge of manufacturing technology to ensure that renewable energy production is a more viable option in the future. With the objective of reducing the production cost of these renewable energy modes, ideally there is an even larger incentive to select renewable energy as a form of energy production. I work at the Rapid Prototyping Lab at the CSU Energy Institute where we use various machining techniques to create parts for the in-house engines lab and various other energy research projects as well.
Outside of school and work I enjoy mountain bike racing, fly fishing and skiing.
Alissa Romero
Patten Davis Foundation Scholar (2nd year ARCS Scholar)
Major: MS and PhD, Mathematics Education
Career Objective: To teach mathematics and continue research in academia
My research is related to funds of knowledge applied to mathematics education. Funds of knowledge is a concept that values all students’ and their families’ knowledge as strengths rather than deficits. Using a funds of knowledge approach, teachers are encouraged
to learn first-hand about students and their families. In mathematics, this would mean identifying the mathematical knowledge of families and understanding how parents view their role in supporting their children’s mathematics education.
I love spending time with my husband Erick and our dog Pinto. Erick has a huge family so we love to visit on the weekends. I also love art, plants, and my fish tank.
Brendan Scheidt
Patten Davis Foundation Scholar (1st year ARCS Scholar)
Major: BS, Computer Science
Career Objective: To help develop artificial intelligence systems
I hope to work on the advancement of artificial intelligence systems by developing more efficient algorithms for tasks or training systems with fewer pieces of data. Potential benefits include providing quicker medical responses, data analysis, and autonomous systems in industry. I hope to help change the operational landscape of future computing in industry and everyday life. I would also enjoy teaching.
I enjoy making music and creating 3-D models for marketing. I am also an actor and enjoy being a part of theatrical productions.
Luke Shuttleworth
Wayne Shank Endowment Scholar (1st year ARCS Scholar)
Major: BS, Electrical Engineering
Career Objective: I hope to work in the solar energy industry and design more efficient solar panels.
I have helped design a powerful microscope lens that would examine “mitochondrial redox” in cells, which helps scientists understand cell health and metabolism. While this was fascinating, I eventually discovered that my true passion was in the energy field.
I decided to shift my focus to solar energy, aiming to improve the efficiency of solar panels, which capture sunlight and convert it into electricity. I hope to discover new designs or elements for solar cells that will increase the conversion efficiency, and make solar the best form of energy.
I enjoy going on runs, hikes, biking, camping, and playing sports (mainly basketball and football). I also enjoy video games and puzzles, as well as making beats.
Gus Trautwein
Harry L. Willett Foundation Scholar (2nd year ARCS Scholar)
Major: BS, Civil Engineering
Career Objective: To work as a civil engineer modernizing the transportation infrastructures in older cities
I’m currently researching the environmental impacts of using recycled, crushed glass as an aggregate for concrete. My research partner and I believe this method of preparing concrete will have vast environmental benefits while retaining the strength and toughness that standard concrete is known for.
I spend my free time biking, singing, and playing basketball with my roommate. We’ve been friends since I was in 1st grade and he always knows how to cheer me up and get me out of my funk.
UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO ANSCHUTZ MEDICAL CAMPUS
Gabriella Albert
Helen and Joseph McConaty Memorial Scholar (1st year ARCS Scholar)
Major: PhD, Immunology
Career Objective: I aspire to be a scientific leader in women’s cancer research, investigating the immunological landscape of breast and ovarian cancers to improve patient responses to immunotherapy
T cells are critical immune cells involved in combating cancer. Solid tumors, such as breast cancer and melanoma, present many challenges that limit the efficacy of T cell therapies. The disease persistence and immunosuppressive environment promote a dysfunctional T cell state known as exhaustion. My research focuses on identifying new ways to overcome T cell exhaustion to improve the durability of T cell therapies. Specifically, I am investigating molecular mechanisms to re-program anti-tumor T cells to resist exhaustion and enhance longevity to improve T cell immunotherapies for the treatment of solid tumors.
Although I grew up in a desert (in Albuquerque, NM), I am a rescue scuba diver and love exploring marine life. In Colorado, I love to stay active by hiking, camping, snowboarding, and exploring new restaurants with friends. I’m also a passionate yogi and plant enthusiast.
Courtney Dobrott
Sarah & Brent Gephart Scholar (1st year ARCS Scholar)
Major: PhD, Neuroscience
Career Objective: To become a principal investigator in a systems neuroscience research lab that focuses on the neural circuitry underlying motor control
My research focuses on understanding the neural circuits responsible for our ability to execute complex movements. I specifically study the cerebellum, a key structure within the motor circuit responsible for learning new movements. I hope to broaden our understanding of the function of cerebellar output and how it contributes to motor control and learning. The findings from this study will provide further insight into the mechanisms of sensorimotor control to aid in the development of novel therapies for patients with movement disorders.
I am an avid runner and cyclist and enjoy competing in endurance races. I also enjoy spending time with my dog, Huxley, who loves to hike and spend time out in the mountains. Indoors I enjoy reading, painting or doing a big puzzle. My twin sister Natasha, has been instrumental during my time in graduate school.
Lily Elizabeth Feldman
Ludeman Family Endowment Scholar (1st year ARCS Scholar)
Major: PhD, Pharmacology and Molecular Medicine
Career Objective: To use my expertise and analytical abilities to improve outcomes for cancer patients, especially populations historically marginalized in the realm of biomedical research.
The goal of my research is to improve the effectiveness – and therefore chances of survival – for cancer patients by defining the molecular mechanisms of chemotherapy resistance and discovering opportunities for therapeutic intervention in these resistance pathways. I hope to contribute to improved outcomes for cancer patients throughout my career. I hope to understand how cancer cells evade chemotherapy on a cellular and molecular level and improve the clinical effectiveness of chemotherapy.
I am an avid climber and hiker. I love exploring the mountains and cuddling with my cat, Rutabaga.
Chloe Friedman
Donald C. Peterson Memorial Scholar (1st year ARCS Scholar)
Major: PhD, Epidemiology
Career Objective: My goal is to become an independent academic researcher working to understand how exposure to environmental chemicals leads to chronic disease risk
My research looks at the impact of exposure to environmental chemicals on the cardio- vascular and metabolic health of pregnant women and their children. The goal of my research is to contribute to a greater understanding of how these chemicals affect the health of people during these important periods in life, in an effort to inform regulatory measures that are designed to protect the public.
In my spare time, I love to hike, ski, cook, and spend time with family and friends!
Elijah Hale
James H. Shore Memorial Scholar (3rd year ARCS Scholar)
Major: MD, Child Psychiatry
Career Objective: I would like to be an academic psychiatrist, treating patients, teaching classes, and running a research lab.
My research focuses on the impacts of psychiatric illness on other specialties of medicine. While many healthcare providers are undoubtedly aware of psychiatric elements relevant to their patient care, evidence suggests that many patients experience worse outcomes due to an incomplete recognition of the patient as a whole person. Perhaps the most distinct examples of this are neurodevelopmental disorders, such as ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder, which are often disregarded in adult patients. It is my hope that further research in this area can help to improve care for this patient population.
I like to run, I have 3 adorable cats, and I have more plants than I have space for in my apartment!
Kayvon Jabbari
Beverly Goodman Scholar (1st year ARCS Scholar)
Major: MD, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
Career Objective: As a physician-scientist, I hope to address the challenges of vascularized composite allotransplantation.
Whole eye transplantation (WET) is a potential method to treat irreversible blindness through surgical delivery of a fully intact eye. Successful WET outcomes require overcoming ischemia reperfusion injury and associated retinal ganglion cell death.
The use of University of Wisconsin Solution (UW) for solid organ transplantation has improved graft survival. However, ocular tissue preservation solutions for donor eyes do not exist and represent an unmet need. I am working to develop and optimize UW-based preservation solutions for whole eye transplantation with the long-term goal of making WET a clinical reality.
Outside of medicine, my hobbies and interests include: jiujitsu, tennis, soccer, learning guitar, beaches, 90’s hip hop, and more beaches.
Michael Kwong
Helen & Joseph McConaty Memorial Scholar (2nd year ARCS Scholar)
Major: MD, Radiology
Career Objective: I aspire to become a radiologist and go into academic medicine, conducting research, teaching, and mentoring students.
By surveying CT scans, we essentially created a map of the pancreatic venous anatomy and identified potential pancreatic veins to use for intravenous cancer treatment. We plan to use this information for clinical trials involving novel intravenous infusion methods and immune checkpoint inhibitors for the treatment of pancreatic cancer. Our long range goal is to create a minimally invasive and effective therapy for pancreatic cancer, one of the deadliest types of cancer.
I was born and raised in Pasadena, California. I used to be deeply involved in martial arts and MMA prior to medical school. Recently, my friends and I have been playing pickleball and I have realized my cardio isn’t that good. Also, my parents just got a new French bulldog named Beignet.
Anna Lee
Sonnie & Richard Talley Scholar (3rd year ARCS Scholar)
Major: MD
Career Objective: To work as a clinician, a researcher and a mentor
I am conducting clinical research with the goal of improving surgical treatment of congenital disease in the pediatric population. Specifically, I analyze outcomes of pediatric cranial surgeries, such as cleft lip and palate, fronto-orbital advancements, and craniosynostosis.
Outside of academic obligations, I dance on a dance team, mentor high school students interested in research and medicine, and play basketball. This past couple months, I have been exploring coffee shops around Denver to scope out who has the best matcha latte!
Madisen Mason
ARCS Members Scholar (1st year ARCS Scholar)
Major: PhD, Neuroscience
Career Objective: I would like to be an independent researcher at a university.
My current research focuses on identifying what specific cell states in the developing brainstem are susceptible to cancer mutations. It is important to determine at what point in development cells become cancer cells because understanding this timing will help in designing more effective therapeutics. In the future, I hope to work as an independent investigator researching how different cancer types develop
I enjoy reading, painting, and creative writing.
Simon Monley
Patten Davis Foundation Scholar (1st year ARCS Scholar)
Major: DDS
Career Objective: Following a prosthodontics residency I hope to conduct research on 3D printing and digital dentistry.
My research is focused on the development of 3D printing resins for 3D printed dentures. 3D printing dentures reduces the cost (from around $700/arch to about $5) and time needed to fabricate dentures (from 6 appointments to just 2 or 3) . The materials in
use today do not outperform traditional heat-cured acrylic dentures, which impedes the adoption of this fabrication technique. Our goal is to formulate novel 3D printing resins that outperform traditional acrylic dentures.
I love to cook, travel, play pickup soccer, play guitar, ride bikes, and go to concerts. I am very grateful for all of the encouragement and support of my parents, especially my mom.
Jacob Plaisted
John J. Reilley, Jr. & Lise Woodard Scholar (1st year ARCS Scholar)
Major: MD
Career Objective: I hope to specialize in critical care medicine at an academic medical center, conducting research and teaching.
My current research is focused on determining the association between platelet recovery and mortality after cardiac surgery. The use of a cardiopulmonary bypass machine during cardiac surgery is known to cause several physiologic changes, such as a significant decrease in platelet number and function. Platelets are later regenerated within the microvasculature of bone marrow. We use the rate of platelet recovery as a marker to measure the rate of reperfusion within the body’s microvasculature. We hypothesize
that measuring platelet count following cardiac surgery could be used an effective early warning sign of impending ischemia-related organ injury and death in patients who otherwise have normal hemodynamic monitoring parameters such as cardiac output and central venous pressure.
In my free time I really enjoy going for long runs or bike rides where I have the space to clear my head and mentally “reset.” I am also a sucker for a good doughnut shop.
Rachel Steinmetz
Ann & Gordon Brown Scholar (1st year ARCS Scholar)
Major: PhD, Cancer Biology
Career Objective: I hope to become a Principal Investigator in a research/translational research lab.
The objective of my research is to improve outcomes for patients with the most common subtype of breast cancer (BC), known as estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) BC. Our team investigates the role of a neuronal development protein, Semaphorin 7a (SEMA7A), which is associated with decreased survival when it is abnormally expressed in ER+ BC. My research focuses on the molecular signaling that occurs when SEMA7A binds to a tumor cell and the subsequent tumor progression. SEMA7A has the potential to be a clinical diagnostic marker and a novel therapeutic target to personalize treatment regimens for ER+ BC patients.
My interests outside of research include painting, hiking with my dog, exploring new places and spending time with family.
UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO BOULDER
Sandra Bae
Sarah & Brent Gephart Scholar (3rd year ARCS Scholar)
Major: PhD, Creative Technology and Design
Career Objective: I would like to research the intersection of Human-Computer Science, Materials Science, and Data Science
Data is ubiquitous--our interactions with data are currently limited to a 2D screen. I hope to push data beyond the boundaries of the flat display. The physicality of data creates opportunities to incorporate data into everyday activities and render physical models of scientific phenomena. I create new data rendering processes using advanced additive manufacturing techniques. The application of this research includes assisting domain experts, such as pre-surgical planning, and supporting education.
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When I’m not in the lab, you can find me under a barbell, on a rock, or in the mountains. I also enjoy homebrewing and new recipes, often dabbling in molecular gastronomy.
Kylie Boenisch-Oakes
Nancy Seacrest Wright Memorial Scholar (1st year ARCS Scholar)
Major: PhD, Environmental Engineering
Career Objective: I hope to work in academia, translating research into effective regulations that protect public health and the environment.
I research direct potable wastewater reuse, the process of treating wastewater for human consumption. While disinfection destroys harmful pathogens, the disinfectant can react with organic matter to form disinfection by-products (DBPs), some of which are known to be harmful to human health. My research is centered around understanding these compounds in water distribution systems to inform regulations and protect public health.
I am an avid rock climber, hiker, skier, and an aspiring mountaineer.
Sarah Coffin
Patten Davis Foundation Scholar (2nd year ARCS Scholar)
Major: PhD, Social Psychology
Career Objective: I hope to advance scientific knowledge at the intersection of human psychology and the way we relate to the natural environment.
Many climate change solutions face psychological barriers to implementation. Effective solutions require understanding how people make decisions and how human behavior factors into every part the environmental movement. My research in social/ ecopsychology seeks to inform policy-makers and other stakeholders about how people make decisions about climate change solutions and what leads to acceptance.
I enjoy wood-burning, nature photography, writing and poetry. I also love to hike with my two dogs Xóchitl and Rocky and my partner Ryan, a Boulder artist.
Deanna Gelosi
Nancy Seacrest Wright Memorial Scholar (1st year ARCS Scholar)
Major: PhD, Creative Technology and Design
Career Objective: My career goal is to research new fabrication tools and technologies that support creativity.
I am a computer scientist and design researcher who has a fascination with making tools for creative expression. I integrate software, hardware, and material explorations, reflecting on the machines in our lives that help fabricate our realities. I am a proponent of open-source projects and work in the field of Human-Computer Interaction (HCI). I hope to develop tools and technologies to support new interactions with objects.
I am a new media artist who has created works in kinetic sculpture and algorithmic art, as well as fine woodworking and ceramics.
Tajanae Harris
Harry L. Willett Foundation Scholar (3rd year ARCS Scholar)
Major: PhD, Information Science
Career Objective: I hope to work in industry for several years before pursuing a tenure-track position, ideally in a historically black college or university or a minority-serving institution,
My research seeks to support environmental justice advocates by understanding how data come to matter in social movements, and how organizing around data within a social movement are structured to enable justice. I have worked in west Dallas, following data collectors, mapping allies and enemies. Data collection should be equitable, empowered, and environmentally just.
Much of my free time is dedicated to spoiling my 11-year-old puppy, Collie Cow. I love learning to do handstands and sharing meals with friends. I have a blog where I write op-eds about technology and design.
Brianna Hibner
Bruce & Marcy Benson Scholar (1st year ARCS Scholar)
Major: PhD, Geology
Career Objective: I hope to teach at a smaller community college with a focus in creating community in the classroom and fostering an interest in scientific exploration.
I study how climate change impacts low-lying carbonate islands in the tropics. I research the formation of a small uninhabited island in the Turks and Caicos called Little Ambergris Cay. I use sediment cores, radiocarbon dating, and field experiments to understand the dynamics allowing for the island to build during a period of sea-level rise and hurricane impacts. I hope to apply this knowledge to other shorelines at risk from climate impacts.
I spend most of my free time hiking, biking, trail running, climbing, and skiing.
Casey Hunt
Jo & Richard Byyny Scholar (2nd year ARCS Scholar)
Major: PhD, Creative Technology and Design, ATLAS
Career Objective: In the future I see myself being a Human Computer Interaction researcher.
I hope to provide insights into tangible interaction. I work in the relatively technical sub- field of Human Computer Interaction. I collaborate with young people; I have worked with children to design a tabletop telepresence robot platform that facilitates creative collaboration among physically distant 8-13 year olds. In the future, I plan to explore how reconfigurable rooms might support identity formation and emotional wellbeing for teens.
When I’m not focused on my studies, I like to walk my dog Boots, dance around my living room, or crochet hats. I am also a proud home cook and a mediocre (but passionate!) runner.
Nathan Jarvey
Sei Solo Foundation Scholar (2nd year ARCS Scholar)
Major: PhD, Chemical Engineering
Career Objective: I hope to be a leader in renewable energy research, an advocate for environmental justice, and a teacher and mentor to future scientists.
I model the movement of ions in electrolytes where many kinds of ions are present. I use physics-based modeling to capture the effects of both physical attraction of ions to a surface and electrochemical reactions at an electrode surface simultaneously. I am most
interested in applications of this work to batteries, carbon dioxide reduction, desalination, and small-particle motion.
I am involved with a social justice & science club in my department as well as the Elementary Arts Lab at CU-Boulder. I also enjoy creative writing and music, as well as hiking, tennis, and disc golf.
Jessica Rush
Patten Davis Foundation Scholar (1st year ARCS Scholar)
Major: PhD, Ecology and Evolutionary Biology
Career Objective: I hope to teach at an undergraduate institution, mentoring and encouraging scientists early in their careers.
I am a biogeochemist studying carbon cycling in northern peatland ecosystems, focusing on how microbes living in these peatlands are able to breathe without oxygen and instead use different, complex carbon molecules for energy. This process is a major control on carbon greenhouse gas production. which is important in the face of global climate change. I have overcome my fear of chemistry in order to do this research.
Every year I set the goal of reading 50 books for fun. My favorite genres range from horror to science fiction to fantasy. Another goal of mine is to read every work published by Stephen King (I’m at 26 novels so far!).
Sadie Sago
Bruce Peterson Scholar (2nd year ARCS Scholar)
Major: PhD, Integrative Physiology
Career Objective: I hope to conduct research into developing diabetes treatments to support long-term health outcomes in Native American and Indigenous communities.
Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a significant health problem in many Native American and Indigenous communities. Research in T2D has increased understanding of the mechanisms underlying this multifactorial disease. Previously, T2D was thought to be due to decreased insulin sensitivity. Now, T2D is considered to be a multifactorial chronic low-grade inflammatory disease with a number of negative health outcomes. I hope to contribute to development of safe, effective, and accessible prevention and treatment interventions to support long-term health outcomes in Native American and Indigenous communities.
I’m a Brazilian Zouk dancer. I also enjoy music, soccer, and collecting exotic plants. I love spending time with my family, and with Ricardo the Betta fish, and Bubba Izzy and MoMo the hedgehogs.
Elora Williams
Harry L. Willett Foundation Scholar (2nd year ARCS Scholar)
Major: PhD, Behavioral Neuroscience
Career Objective: I hope to become the editor of a high impact journal, effectively communicating research methods and advances in technology.
A core aspect of anxiety disorders is the abnormal processing of threat-related information, mostly the inability to modify responses to the absence of real threat. Chronic opioid use and withdrawal elicits changes throughout the brain, altering circuitries responsible for learning and threat processing. Importantly, withdrawal often leads to an increase in autonomic arousal and induces anxiety, which can then initiate drug-seeking behavior and relapse. However, it is not entirely known what brain regions are involved in these two disorders when in concert. Understanding how behavior and neurochemical signaling change during anxiety-provoking experiences during withdrawal is a foundation step in developing therapeutics for opioid use disorder and preventing relapse.
I clear my mind with yoga, running, and sand volleyball and playing in nature by hiking, camping, and snowboarding in the Rocky Mountains.
UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO COLORADO SPRINGS
Alyssa Jimeson
Harry L. Willett Foundation Scholar (1st year ARCS Scholar)
Major: MS, Mechanical Engineering
Career Objective: I aspire to work in the medical device field to improve current processes and develop new devices.
My research focuses on glaucoma. Damaged systems for draining aqueous humor from the eye cause optic nerve damage as liquid builds up without a constant out flow. The goal is to determine if vibrating certain structures of the eye will promote drainage.
Electronic simulation will be compared to a mechanical model. Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness; this work has the potential to advance our understanding of glaucoma and its treatments.
In my free time I love to do arts and crafts. I have won three national and two congressional awards in charcoal drawing. Now I draw to help me decompress. My family was always there to support me however they could. I would not be in the same position if I did not have a constant reminder of my family’s love and support to keep me grounded.
Kaylie Maddux
ARCS Members Scholar (1st year ARCS Scholar)
Major: MS, Electrical Engineering
Career Objective: I hope to conduct research throughout my career. My current work in the field of battery controls includes two things of interest to me: electrochemistry and controls.
I am currently researching the modeling and control of lithium-ion batteries. This involves both an understanding of the electrochemical behavior of battery cells as well as control theory. A strong background in controls will enable me to apply control theory to nearly any field. Because I also have a strong interest in electrochemistry, I would like to continue delving into the inner workings of the chemistry of battery cells. My long-range career objectives are to continue pursuing research in the field of controls and battery modeling, furthering the understanding and safety of use for lithium-ion batteries.
My main hobby is learning foreign languages, including Spanish and Japanese, I also enjoy sewing, cooking, and genealogy, as well as spending time with my family and hiking in Colorado.
Katrina Rosemond
Patten Davis Foundation Scholar (1st year ARCS Scholar)
Major: PhD, Computer Science
Career Objective: After earning my PhD, I plan to enter industry and continue my work focused on embedded system security.
Many of today’s systems are systems of systems, and the convergence of these multiple systems can create security vulnerabilities that can wreak havoc on our infrastructure. My research interests focus on improving security in embedded system to ensure they are resilient to cyberattacks.
Outside of research, I enjoy painting, baking, and playing video games.
Rebekah Shepherd
Harriet Peterson Scholar (1st year ARCS Scholar)
Major: MS, Manufacturing Engineering
Career Objective: I plan to pursue a career in Manufacturing Engineering.
My research involves solid-state battery manufacturing. The goal is to find better ways for energy to be efficiently transferred. This research ties into my goals within manufacturing. Society will benefit from the research of more sustainable and efficient energy sources.
I enjoy being outdoors, as well as art, and music. Overall, I love that engineering has been able to tie my passions of science, math, and creativity together.
UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO DENVER
Ananya Alfred
Lyda Ludeman Scholar
(1st year ARCS Scholar)
Major: BS, Bioengineering
Career Objective: I hope to focus on the study of chronic lung diseases and how to use nanotechnology drug delivery to target diseased areas of lungs and other tissues in the body.
Up to now my focus has been on building a solid foundation in science. In my junior and senior years and in graduate school, I will research ways to alleviate chronic lung
disease. I hope to work in the Magin Lab to engineer cell cultures that mimic the dynamic complexity of lung tissue to study lung disease. I am particularly interested in the use of nanotechnology to deliver drugs to diseased areas in the human body.
I play piano and violin, and especially love spending time with my family. My favorite conversations are with my 103-year-old grandfather, whom I have grown to admire. He was born in 1920, grew up impoverished in a tiny fishing village, but always dreamed big from reading newspapers. He left his family, got on a boat to the big city, with empty pockets but big dreams. He charmed his way into a news agency and worked himself up from there to the pinnacle of his profession, traveling all over the world covering news events and interviewing leaders such as Mahatma Gandhi. His grit has rubbed off on me!
Sydney Dodson
ARCS Light Scholar (1st year ARCS Scholar)
Major: BS, Mechanical Engineering
Career Objective: My career goal is to become a mechanical engineer and work in the renewable energy industry.
As an undergraduate mechanical engineering student, I believe that both research and industry experience are essential to successful innovation and discovery. Once I graduate with my bachelor’s degree, I plan on gaining five years of renewable energy industry experience before pursuing my master’s degree, after which I will obtain a doctoral degree with my research focusing on critical needs.
I am passionate about protection of the environment and animal welfare. I am working toward a Leadership Certificate in Sustainability offered by my university. This course of study is providing me with a holistic view of the myriad of challenges that we must overcome as a society and will guide me in my future research.
David Morton
Valerie Brown Memorial Scholar (1st year ARCS Scholar)
Major: BA, Computer Science
Career Objective: My goal is to complete my undergraduate and masters studies concurrently and enter into a cybersecurity role in the private or public sector. Long term, I intend to open a cybersecurity consulting firm.
Research shows that the prevalence of technology in everyday human life and the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) systems will continue to increase the need for cybersecurity professionals around the world. There will come a time when AI systems are deployed in cybercrime activities, and my goal is to acquire the knowledge and tools needed to be part of a team seeking to thwart these crimes and the danger to innocent civilians.
I’m an avid video gamer and enjoy programming in my free time. Occasionally, I write poetry was published in a journal when I was in high school. My family is originally from Scotland, and we try to make a trip to Inverness whenever we have the time and funds.
Mouayid Yessoufou
Amy Davis Endowment Scholar (2nd year ARCS Scholar)
Major: BS, Electrical Engineering
Career Objective: My career objective is to excel in the field of Microelectronics and Very Large Scale Integration (VLSI) design. I also have a keen interest in Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence (AI).
I have developed a smart software tool that can automatically detect special radio waves called “sferics” produced by lightning strikes around the world. They are quick and intense electromagnetic wave energy bursts, lasting only approximately 1 millisecond. These sferics play a crucial role for communication experts and space researchers, offering insights into how radio waves navigate the lower atmosphere. There are four key stages: preparing the data, teaching the computer what sferics look like, creating a model for the computer to learn from, and determining how well the model worked. I hope to leverage this expertise to tackle more intricate challenges in space science and communication systems.
As a polyglot, I embrace linguistic diversity, and am fluent in French, English, Yoruba, and Fon. Additionally, I possess proficient reading and writing skills in Arabic. Leisure finds me engrossed in soccer and tinkering with robotics.