Victoria Gong

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STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

Meet Victoria Gong! Victoria is a third-year Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology major with a minor in Biomedical Research and Global Health. She is currently part of the Undergraduate Research Fellows Program (URFP), and will be participating in the URC – Sciences Summer Program this summer. Victoria’s independent research project focuses specifically on imaging lung cancer and immune cell interactions using immunofluorescence techniques. She credits undergraduate research in fundamentally shaping her career goals and reaffirmed her passion for pursuing a research-focused career. Read below for Victoria’s full interview.

1. How did you first get involved in your research project? Tell us a bit about the lab you are in and the research you are currently conducting.
I joined Dr. Aaron Meyer’s lab during the winter of my freshman year through cold emailing! At the time, the project I’m still working on—a collaboration with Merck—was just beginning, and it immediately aligned with my interest in biopharma-related immune research. I started by learning from graduate mentors how to perform antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) and phagocytosis assays using lung cancer cells and Merck antibodies. My current independent project stems from this larger collaboration, focusing specifically on imaging lung cancer and immune cell interactions using immunofluorescence techniques.

2. How would you describe your research experience at UCLA?
I feel incredibly fortunate to have joined Dr. Meyer’s lab early in my undergraduate career. As I learned both hands-on and through coursework, my understanding of immune and cell-based concepts deepened. Dr. Meyer, my graduate mentor Meera Trisal, and my fellow lab members have been incredibly supportive, encouraging me to pursue more independent research directions. Participating in URC-Sciences’ URFP program came at a perfect time, helping me transition from an undergraduate volunteer to a more independent scientific researcher.

3. What is your year and major?
I am a third-year Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology (MCDB) major, with minors in Biomedical Research and Global Health.

4. What is one piece of advice you have for other students thinking about getting involved in research?

Don’t be afraid to try everything! Cold email labs even if you’re unsure about your chances – persistence is key. Once you’re in a lab, take initiative to get more involved, and put genuine effort into learning and contributing. It never hurts to ask!!!

5. Have you attended a conference before? If so, can you describe your experience on preparation, presenting, etc.?
Not yet, but I will be presenting at Undergraduate Research Week this spring and am excited to participate in conferences over the summer!

6. Have you had your work published? Can you talk about what that process was like?
Not yet, but I have been involved in my lab’s peer review and manuscript preparation processes. I’ve learned that getting results published is a meticulous and sometimes tiring, but ultimately very rewarding, experience.

7. What are your future career goals?
I hope to pursue a Ph.D. in bioengineering, continuing to explore immune cell and cell-based therapies. After completing my Ph.D., I aspire to work in the biopharmaceutical industry to help advance and expand immune-based treatments.

8. Please list any URC/departmental programs you are/were involved in.
I am currently part of the URFP program, which has really boosted my confidence in presenting my research to both general and specialized audiences. I’ve also loved hearing about the diverse research projects my peers are working on, from cellular biology to computer science, and building a network of passionate researchers at UCLA. This summer, I’ll be participating in the URC-Sciences summer program, and I’m looking forward to continuing to grow within this community.

9. What was the impact of undergraduate research on your career path?
Undergraduate research has fundamentally shaped my career goals. It has taught me to think independently, question assumptions I once took for granted, and reaffirmed my passion for pursuing a research-focused career. Conversations with peers in URFP and research-related clubs have made me realize how unique and valuable it is to have this level of access and support for undergraduate research at UCLA. It’s been inspiring to be part of a community that pushes each other to think critically and grow as scientists.

Sasha Gladkikh

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STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

Meet Sasha Gladkikh! Sasha is a fourth-year Computational and Systems Biology major who plans to attend medical school to pursue a career as a physician-scientist. She is currently in the Undergraduate Research Fellows Program and will be joining the URC – Sciences Summer Program this summer. Sasha’s current research in the Lusis Laboratory investigates the protective role of microbiota-derived metabolites in abdominal aortic aneurysms. One piece of advice Sasha have for students interested in research is to “Start before you feel ready. It is completely normal to feel intimidated when stepping into a lab for the first time…that initial uncertainty is often where the most meaningful learning begins.” Read Sasha’s full interview below.

1. How did you first get involved in your research project? Tell us a bit about the lab you are in and the research you are currently conducting.
I joined the Lusis Laboratory at the David Geffen School of Medicine in my third year to pursue my interests in cardiology and bioinformatics. The Lusis Lab applies a systems genetics framework to investigate complex cardiovascular and metabolic disorders, including atherosclerosis, heart failure, and fatty liver disease, by integrating multi-omics data from both human cohorts and mouse models. Under the mentorship of Dr. Aldons J. Lusis and PhD candidate Jenny Cheng, my current research investigates the protective role of microbiota-derived metabolites in abdominal aortic aneurysms, a degenerative vascular condition that currently ranks as the 15th leading cause of death in the United States.

2. How would you describe your research experience at UCLA?
Transformative. I entered UCLA with no prior research experience and little guidance on how to begin. As the daughter of refugees, I was accustomed to navigating uncertainty independently, but stepping into research introduced a new world, one shaped by rigorous inquiry, collaborative problem-solving, and intellectual humility. Joining the Lusis Lab gave me the structure, mentorship, and environment I needed to grow. I learned to approach scientific questions with both curiosity and precision, to treat setbacks as essential to the learning process, and to recognize persistence as a critical part of progress. This experience sharpened my analytical skills, deepened my appreciation for discovery, and solidified my long-term commitment to research.

3. What is your year and major?
I am a fourth-year majoring in Computational and Systems Biology.

4. What is one piece of advice you have for other students thinking about getting involved in research?
Start before you feel ready. It is completely normal to feel intimidated when stepping into a lab for the first time; I certainly did. However, that initial uncertainty is often where the most meaningful learning begins. You do not need to have all the answers to contribute. What matters most is approaching research with curiosity, accepting feedback, and being willing to grow through trial and error. Ask thoughtful questions, take responsibility for your mistakes, and seek mentors who will challenge your thinking while supporting your development. With the right environment, you will not only strengthen your skills, but also grow into a confident and capable researcher, often in ways you could not have anticipated.

5. Have you attended a conference before? If so, can you describe your experience on preparation, presenting, etc.?
I attended the 2024 UCLA Cardiovascular Theme Symposium, a two-day conference that convenes leading researchers across disciplines to explore advances in cardiovascular metabolism, epigenetics, oncology, and therapeutic development. Although I did not present, attending keynote talks by physician-scientists, early-career investigators, and biomedical engineers deepened my understanding of the pressing questions shaping the field. Observing how researchers framed their findings and engaged their audience helped me think more intentionally about how to communicate science with clarity and purpose. The experience broadened my perspective and provided practical tools I will carry into future presentations of my own work.

6. Have you had your work published? Can you talk about what that process was like?
Yes, I have co-authored two publications:

● The impact of plakophilin-2 deficiency on the atrial myocardium: electrophysiological insights and therapeutic implications, The Journal of Physiology (2025). DOI: 10.1113/JP288315.

● Trimethylamine-N-oxide affects cell type-specific pathways and networks in mouse aorta to promote atherosclerotic plaque vulnerability, bioRxiv (2025). DOI: 10.1101/2025.02.25.640205.

The publishing process gave me a deeper appreciation for the full trajectory of scientific research, from hypothesis generation to public dissemination. I came to understand that impactful science is not only grounded in data, but also in how clearly and rigorously it is communicated. Each stage, from data interpretation to manuscript revision, pushed me to think critically, collaborate across disciplines, and refine the way I present complex ideas. Contributing to these studies strengthened my commitment to research and taught me that discovery becomes meaningful through precision, persistence, and shared purpose.

7. What are your future career goals?
I plan to attend medical school and pursue a career as a physician-scientist. My goal is to bridge clinical practice with bioinformatics-driven research, particularly in cardiology, to uncover novel mechanisms of disease. I hope to contribute to the development of more targeted, data-informed therapies that advance both patient outcomes and our broader understanding of human health.

8. Please list any URC/departmental programs you are/were involved in.
I am currently a scholar in the Undergraduate Research Fellows Program (URFP) and will participate in the URC–Sciences Summer Program this summer. URFP has played a pivotal role in shaping my development as a researcher by providing financial support and a thoughtfully structured environment for academic and professional growth. Through the RES PRC 103 seminar, taught by Dr. Jorge Avila, I strengthened my skills in science communication, research proposal writing, and graduate school preparation. One of the most impactful aspects of the program was engaging with a diverse cohort of undergraduate researchers across the life, physical, and engineering sciences. Learning from their perspectives encouraged me to approach my own work more critically and broadened my appreciation for interdisciplinary collaboration. Beyond the skills I gained, URFP gave me a lasting sense of connection to UCLA’s research community and reaffirmed my commitment to a career grounded in discovery and impact.

9. What was the impact of undergraduate research on your career path?
Undergraduate research has been foundational in shaping both my career goals and my sense of purpose. It affirmed my aspiration to become a physician-scientist, someone who not only delivers clinical care but also investigates the molecular mechanisms driving disease. Research taught me that science is not about having immediate answers, but about asking the right questions and approaching uncertainty with patience, creativity, and persistence. It pushed me to think more critically, embrace setbacks as part of the process, and recognize the value of sustained effort. Most importantly, it helped me discover how deeply I care about advancing knowledge in ways that ultimately improve patient lives.

 

 

Data Tracking & Entry Research Assistant: Study of social cognition and attention in schizophrenia patients

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Qualifications: 

Students with an interest in schizophrenia and psychopathology research are encouraged to apply. This position is particularly appropriate for undergraduates with a minimum overall GPA of 3.5. Second year students are especially encourage to apply, but all years will be considered. Must be extremely reliable and dependable (excessive tardiness and absences are NOT acceptable). Must be able to balance competing demands and must be competent in multitasking and adapting to fluctuating priorities. Candidate must be detail-oriented, organized, accurate, and efficient with minimal supervision. Candidate must have excellent oral and written English communication skills. Ability to understand issues of patient confidentiality and safety is required. Proficiency in the use of standard PC office equipment and standard PC software (i.e. MS Office, Word, Excel, Internet searching) is also required. Must have excellent interpersonal skills and demonstrate appropriate interpersonal boundaries with patients and staff and be able to work in a shared workspace with a diverse team of mental health professionals.

Approximate hours per week: 8 hours

Document to submit: Resume, Cover Letter, Unofficial Transcript, Writing Sample

Applications accepted until: July 1, 2027

Send materials to: ksubotnik@mednet.ucla.edu

Company/department website: https://www.semel.ucla.edu/aftercare

Document Submission Notes: Please name each file with the following format (in the following example, the applicant’s name is “Jane Doe”, the content is “Resume” and date (e.g., Jane Doe Resume 9-1-2017). Other documents should use a similar file naming format. Writing sample can be a term paper for college level class, preferably one with a literature review included.

Job Description:

The UCLA Aftercare Research Program has been on the UCLA campus for over two decades, and provides free psychiatric treatment for patients with a recent onset of schizophrenia who participate in the research study. Our longitudinal research program examines whether we can accentuate our effort to get first break patients back to work to precent the onset of chronic disability. Duties include data entry, scheduling research subjects, updating of clinician referral database, and administering research measures to research participants.

The student will assist the Aftercare Research Program staff with general research/project tasks including: data file management, data entry and data collection, tracking and triggering research measures, and updating the data entry site. Other tasks can include off-site data storage inventory, and assisting the patient coordinator with file maintenance and errands.

Approved for credit: SRP-99 credit only

Employment Period: Year-round, long-term (2 years)

 

Research Opportunity: Study of antipsychotic medication adherence in schizophrenia

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Qualifications: 

Students with an interest in schizophrenia and psychopathology research are encouraged to apply. This position is particularly appropriate for undergraduates with a minimum overall GPA of 3.5. First and second year students are preferred so that they have longer to serve the position. Must be extremely reliable and dependable (excessive tardiness and absences are NOT acceptable). Must be able to balance competing demands and must be competent in multitasking and adapting to fluctuating priorities. Candidate must be detail-oriented, organized, accurate, and efficient with minimal supervision. Candidate must have excellent oral and written English communication skills. Ability to understand issues of patient confidentiality and safety is required. Proficiency in the use of standard PC office equipment and standard PC software (i.e. MS Office, Word, Excel, Internet searching) is also required. Must have excellent interpersonal skills and demonstrate appropriate interpersonal boundaries with patients and staff and be able to work in a shared workspace with a diverse team of mental health professionals. Some experience in library literature reviews, use of Pubmed on UCLA library website, some experience in reading and summarizing psychology research articles. Experience in the use of SPSS is preferred.

Approximate hours per week: 8 hours

Document to submit: Resume, Cover Letter, Unofficial Transcript, Writing Sample

Applications accepted until: Oct 01 2026

Send materials to: ksubotnik@mednet.ucla.edu

Company/department website: https://www.semel.ucla.edu/aftercare

Document Submission Notes: Please name each file with the following format (in the following example, the applicant’s name is “Jane Doe”, the content is “Resume” and date (e.g., Jane Doe Resume 9-1-2017). Other documents should use a similar file naming format. Writing sample can be a term paper for college level class, preferably one with a literature review included.

Job Description:

The UCLA Aftercare Research Program has been on the UCLA campus for over two decades, and provides free psychiatric treatment for patients with a recent onset of schizophrenia who participate in the research study. Our longitudinal research program examines whether we can accentuate our effort to get first break patients back to work to precent the onset of chronic disability. For this SRP position, the student will help maintain our extensive database on medication adherence among our schizophrenia patients. In addition, the student will assist in the review of the literature on medication adherence in schizophrenia and summarize articles related to medication adherence.

Approved for credit: SRP-99 credit only

 

Dr. Monica Gonzalez Ramirez

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FACULTY SPOTLIGHT

Dr. Monica Gonzalez Ramirez is the newest Assistant Director at the Undergraduate Research Center – Sciences and plays a vital role in running many of our department’s programs, including PEERS, TREP, and more. We had the opportunity to speak with Dr. Gonzalez Ramirez to ask about her experiences with undergraduate research at UCLA and how she supports students through their various career trajectories in science, among many other topics. Read Dr. Gonzalez Ramirez’s full interview below.

1. How would you describe your experiences with undergraduate research at UCLA?

Being a part of the Undergraduate Research Center – Sciences has provided me with the opportunity to interact with and mentor several students during my time at UCLA. Each experience is unique, as the students come from diverse backgrounds, possess varying levels of exposure to research, and have distinct career aspirations. My aim is to understand their overarching life goals so that I can effectively support them in overcoming both academic and personal challenges. Having a research background myself enhances these conversations, allowing me to share insights about the research experience and how to navigate the obstacles that often accompany it. These interactions are incredibly rewarding, as I witness the growth of undergraduate students in their academic capabilities, the confidence they gain in pursuing research opportunities, and their success in reaching their objectives.

2. What are your most effective approaches to promote undergraduate research success?

I believe that the most effective strategies for promoting undergraduate research success are transparency, networking, and support. It is essential for students to understand what it takes to become a researcher. This includes selecting a laboratory with a supportive research mentor, fostering a healthy work culture, being aware of the competitive nature of the field, and recognizing the significant amount of troubleshooting involved in obtaining data. Collaborating on laboratory projects or other initiatives with peers is an excellent way to advance both science and society. One of the rewarding aspects of engaging in research is the multitude of opportunities to connect with other researchers within your field and beyond. Just like in any profession, there will be days when things don’t go as planned, and it is during these times that researchers need a robust support system. The encouragement of mentors, peers, friends, and family can help make challenges, setbacks, and failures more manageable. This support reminds you of your strengths, acknowledges the limitations beyond your control, and offers fresh perspectives to navigate these obstacles.

3. What should undergraduates consider before they begin their research journey?

As undergraduates begin to envision their research journey, it is essential to consider their capacity to confront adversity. While pursuing a research career can be incredibly fulfilling, it is not without its challenges. In addition to possessing the academic intelligence to grasp complex topics, researchers must demonstrate exceptional problem-solving skills and creativity to develop innovative tools. Equally important is the resilience needed to navigate rejections and failures. Not every email sent in the hopes of joining a research lab will receive a response, and those that do may not yield a positive outcome. Once in the laboratory, it is important to recognize that not every experiment will succeed or provide conclusive evidence to support a hypothesis. Similarly, journals may not accept your manuscript on the first attempt, and securing grant funding can be a challenging process. In these instances, researchers must persevere, remain focused, and acknowledge that the research process is inherently time-consuming. Throughout this journey, we cultivate resilience and adaptability, which ultimately equip us for success despite the myriad challenges we may encounter.

4. How do you support students as they navigate different career trajectories in science?

I encourage students to pursue their happiness, trust their intuition, and recognize that as human beings, we are in a constant state of change and evolution. While change can be intimidating, it is ultimately beneficial and essential for our growth. Higher education provides us with the knowledge and tools necessary to make well-informed decisions that align with our skills, talents, and values. Transitioning between career paths within the field of science is not only acceptable but also encouraged. What is essential is having a plan, along with a contingency plan, to navigate any challenges that may arise. I want students to chase their dream careers without the fear of disappointing their mentors, professors, or family. By choosing a path that fosters fulfillment and joy, they will become better resources and role models for those around them. Teaching students that they have the autonomy to shape their life and career choices empowers them to trust themselves and emerge as leaders.

5. What is one of your most memorable or rewarding moments in mentoring undergraduate students?

There isn’t a single moment that stands out above the rest in my experience mentoring students. Each student brings a unique story, set of needs, and challenges, resulting in numerous rewarding experiences for me as their mentor. I take great joy in guiding them through complex situations, witnessing their confidence and resilience grow, watching their frowns transform into smiles, and celebrating their journey toward self-fulfillment and happiness in their life choices. The ultimate reward, however, lies in the trust my students place in me, knowing that I am always here to support them.

 

Kyla Letko

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STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

Meet Kyla Letko! Kyla is a third-year Physics major with a minor in Anthropology. She is currently part of the Undergraduate Research Fellows Program (URFP), a two-quarter program that supports UCLA students who are conducting a life science, physical science, or engineering research project with UCLA faculty. Kyla’s current project under Dr. David Leibrandt consists of miniaturizing atomic clock setups with the goal of ultimately sending ultra precise measurement and timekeeping devices to space. In the future, Kyla plans on pursuing a PhD in physics and working in research and development in industry or conducting research at a national lab. Read Kyla’s full interview below.

1. How did you first get involved in your research project? Tell us a bit about the lab you are in and the research you are currently conducting.
As a freshman, I knew I wanted to get involved in research, but I had no idea what subfield of physics I was interested in. I kept tabs on the types of research my professors were doing, and I tried to attend as many physics colloquiums, professor talks, and lab tours as possible to continue learning about the various disciplines of physics and what working on those projects looks like. Last year, I became interested in atomic, molecular, and optical (AMO) physics because of the size, scale, and applicability of AMO research. Professor Leibrandt had taught me in a class freshman year, and I reached out to him because I was interested in his AMO lab working on trapped ion precision measurement devices. Fast forward to today, and I have a project at his lab miniaturizing atomic clock setups with the goal of ultimately sending ultra precise measurement and timekeeping devices to space.

2. How would you describe your research experience at UCLA?
I am extremely grateful for all of the opportunities the physics department presents to undergraduates, both through direct research openings and other opportunities to interact with professors, graduate students, and their projects. I was happy to be able to join a research lab when I was just a freshman with little experience, and to continue to learn about almost every other discipline of research, both within and outside of my major. Without the help of UCLA’s physics department and URC-Sciences’ resources, I would be incredibly lost about my interests as a student and as a researcher.

3. What is your year and major?
I am a third year majoring in physics with a minor in anthropology.

4. What is one piece of advice you have for other students thinking about getting involved in research?
Embrace the learning curve! As an undergraduate, research labs are filled with people who have years of experience in a very niche field, and learning what is going on and how you fit in can be very challenging. Remember that most of them have been in your position before, so don’t be afraid to ask for help. Trust that finally getting a hang of your project is one of the most rewarding experiences of being an undergraduate in research.

5. Have you attended a conference before? If so, can you describe your experience on preparation, presenting, etc.?
I have not attended a conference before, but I have presented my research in previous labs to academic and international audiences. I always have a lot of fun wrapping all of my work together in a presentation and sharing how I’ve helped to advance the research and its greater global impact.

6. Have you had your work published? Can you talk about what that process was like?
I have had my work published in a paper and a couple of conference proceedings for a previous lab I worked with. It’s very satisfying to see your work read, used, and cited in the real world!

7. What are your future career goals?
I plan on pursuing a PhD in physics and working in research and development in industry or conducting research at a national lab.

8. Please list any URC/departmental programs you are/were involved in.
This quarter, I am in the URFP program. The program has boosted my confidence in communicating about my research to both general and a specialized audiences. I have also really enjoyed hearing about the labs my peers are involved with in other fields, from cellular biology to computer science. It has been great to continue to build a supportive network of researchers at such a large school.

9. What was the impact of undergraduate research on your career path?
Undergraduate research has helped me decide which subfield of physics research I am most interested in, and it’s made me confident in my abilities to participate in research in the real world. The mentorship I have received from graduate students and PIs throughout my undergraduate research journey has been invaluable towards helping me get a better idea of my career path, and it’s made me feel more connected to my professors and UCLA as a whole.

Mrinalini Mishra

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STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

Meet Mrinalini Mishra! Mrinalini is a fourth-year Neuroscience major who plans to become a physician, as well as continue her research focusing on neuroscience-related public health issues and associated health disparities. Mrinalini is a URFP scholar, and is currently conducting research around analyzing imaging data from acute stroke patients to see if early imaging can reveal the risk of developing post-stroke epilepsy as part of the Mazumder Lab. One piece of advice Mrinalini has for students thinking about getting involved in research is “…it never hurts to try emailing a potential research mentor if you truly are interested in their research!” Read Mrinalini’s full interview below.

 

1. How did you first get involved in your research project? Tell us a bit about the lab you are in and the research you are conducting.

I work in the Mazumder Lab, which is a clinical research lab focused on epilepsy and global health. I got involved in my specific research project at the start of this school year, though I have been a research assistant for my lab since my 2nd year here. My project centers around analyzing imaging data from acute stroke patients to see if early imaging can reveal the risk of developing post-stroke epilepsy.

 

2. How would you describe your research experience at UCLA?

My research experience at UCLA has been positive overall! During my first year, it was definitely challenging trying to figure out how to contact researchers at school. However, through a chance encounter after a neurology interest event, I was able to find my PI and have been with my lab ever since! I am glad I am part of the Mazumder Lab, especially because of the kind people who I get to work with, from my PI to my fellow research assistants. I enjoy going into the lab and getting to spend time with them!

 

3. What is your year and major?

4th year, neuroscience!

 

4. What is one piece of advice you have for other students thinking about getting involved in research?

I would say that it never hurts to try emailing a potential research mentor if you truly are interested in their research! If they don’t respond to you or tell you they don’t need research assistants, it’s ok. I would much rather live with a no than think about what could have been had I been brave enough to email them.

 

5. Have you attended a conference before? If so, can you describe your experience on preparation, presenting, etc.?

I have not attended a conference before, but I will be presenting my research at the neuroscience capstone poster day and the undergraduate research week symposium!

 

6. Have you had your work published? Can you talk about what that process was like?

As of yet, I have not had my work published. However, I might be able to begin work on a manuscript about my project once the school year ends!

 

7. What are your future career goals?

My future goal is to become a physician, but I do not want to give up research! My goal is to continue research in some capacity in the future, focusing on neuroscience-related public health issues and associated health disparities.

 

8. Please list any URC/departmental programs you are/were involved in.

I am not part of any other URC programs besides the URFP. I really value the URFP and my experience has been really impactful. On the first day of the research practicum class all URFP scholars must take, I got to hear about my peers’ research projects and I was amazed at how intelligent and hardworking they all are! Being surrounded by such incredible researchers has pushed me to put more work into my own research. I am also very grateful for Dr. Avila, who encourages all of us and makes himself available for all of our questions.

 

9. What was the impact of undergraduate research on your career path?

Research has solidified my desire to pursue medicine as a career. I want to be able to explore new ideas that can help patients and then actually be able to apply them in clinical practice as well. I also am interested in pursuing an MPH as well to learn more about public health as a whole.

Dr. William Lowry

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FACULTY SPOTLIGHT

Dr. Lowry is a professor in the Department of Molecular, Cell, and Developmental Biology. His research investigates whether stem cells found in different tissues utilize similar mechanisms to undergo self-renewal and differentiation. We had the opportunity to ask Dr. Lowry about his experience mentoring undergraduate students. Read Dr. Lowry’s full interview below:

1. How would you describe your experiences with undergraduate research at UCLA?

Undergrad research has been among the most satisfying aspects of my career at UCLA. The breadth of excellence amongst undergraduates at UCLA is fantastic, and the fact that so many want to take part in lab research is highly gratifying. We have had dozens of student researchers in the lab over the last 18 years, and every one of them has performed important work, and the vast majority have ended up contributing to published papers. I have always appreciated the effort, but also the spirit the undergrads bring to the lab. They not only contribute intellectually, but also in terms of atmosphere.

2. What are your most effective approaches to promote undergraduate research success?

My approach has always been to first determine what the student is keenly interested in, and then point them towards a project that scratches that itch.

3. What resources at UCLA have been the most beneficial to including undergraduates in your research?

The biomedical minor program run by Ira Clark (MCDB), and the CIRM Bridges Program, run by Cindy Malone (CSUN). These programs have guided fantastic students based primarily on their interest to my lab. Both of these programs are fantastic resources, and have been indispensable for the success of my lab.

4. What should undergraduates consider before they begin their research journey?

To start with, undergrads should be willing to take on any kind of project to get their foot in the door. Then, when reaching out to labs, it is important that they do some homework on what the lab is studying. With the number of undergrads that want to get into research labs, it is vital to have a specific interest in the lab, informed by looking into the research in the lab.

5.How do you support students as they navigate different career trajectories in science?

I push students to take every opportunity to present their data possible. From lab meeting, to local and national meetings, I feel it is important to have this experience, even if you don’t plan on having a career in research. These opportunities are unique to research, but the skills gained for taking part are critical to almost any field.

Nirajara Dungwatanawanich

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STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

Meet Nirajara Dungwatanawanich! Nirajara is a fourth-year, double majoring in Computer Science and Physics, and is looking to become a researcher in either industry or academia, in the field of condensed matter physics and/or quantum information science. She is involved in the Clare Boothe Luce (CBL) Scholars Program, which has not only connected her with other undergraduate researchers, but also provided classes on essential research/career knowledge, such as authorship, presenting, conferences, and graduate school. Nirajara advises students thinking about getting involved in research to “Take the time you need to learn all the new information and techniques, and don’t forget to ask questions!” Read Nirajara’s full interview below.

1. How did you first get involved in your research project?

I first reached out through email to Dr. Steven Furlanetto in my third year. After a couple of meetings, I started learning how to use the 21cmFAST code for my research, creating models, and now I am in the process of writing a paper.

2. How would you describe your research experience at UCLA?

My research experience at UCLA has been very rewarding. It has taught me a lot about the research process and how research is about incremental progress. I have learned to stay persistent and develop a research workflow, especially when it comes to generating, saving, and making data presentable. Being organized has been a very important part of my research experience.

3. What is your year and major?

I am a fourth year double majoring in Computer Science and Physics.

4. What is one piece of advice you have for other students thinking about getting involved in research?

Be patient with yourself. Starting a new research project can be intimidating and can come with a huge influx of new information. Take the time you need to learn all the new information and techniques, and don’t forget to ask questions! Also, make sure to take notes throughout the process. It is very easy to forget what you did 6 months ago.

5. Have you attended a conference before? If so, can you describe your experience on preparation, presenting, etc.?

I have yet to attend a conference to present my research! However, I have attended the Clare Boothe Luce Program Women in STEM Conference in Chicago, where I attended workshops and met many accomplished scientists.

6. Have you had your work published? Can you talk about what that process was like?

Not yet, but hopefully soon!

7. What are your future career goals?

I am looking to become a researcher either in industry or academia in the field of condensed matter physics and/or quantum information science.

8. Please list any URC/departmental programs you are/were involved in. How has your experience been as a Clare Boothe Luce Scholar?

I am grateful to be involved in the Clare Boothe Luce (CBL) Scholar program at UCLA. CBL has not only connected me with other undergraduate researchers, but it has also provided classes on essential research/career knowledge, such as authorship, presenting, conferences, and graduate school. Additionally, CBL has given me the opportunity to visit Chicago and meet other CBL scholars from around the nation.

9. What was the impact of undergraduate research on your career path?

Doing research as an undergraduate student has ultimately led to my decision to pursue a research career. I have really enjoyed the novelty and the creative aspect of research, as well as its interdisciplinary nature. I have happily used my programming skills in each of my research projects and I look forward to continuing to do that.

Kimberly Jorge

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STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

Meet Kimberly Jorge! Kimberly is a third-year Human Biology and Society major with a minor in Chicana and Chicano studies. She has been involved with the URC – Sciences Summer Program, a 10-week program designed for undergraduate students to undertake research with a UCLA faculty and receive professional development through workshops and seminars. Through this program, Kimberly is now a California Alliance for Minority Participation (CAMP) scholar, which she credits for helping with her public speaking skills, as well as opening up doors for additional opportunities to present her research. Kimberly is currently preparing to present at the CAMP Scholars Symposium, and plans to become a pediatrician in the future! Read Kimberly’s full interview below.

1. How did you first get involved in your research project?

I got involved with my research project/lab due to the PEERS (Program for Excellence in Education and Research in the Sciences). They held an event where we could meet potential faculty looking for undergrads and that was where I met my mentor, Dr. Hayes.

2. How would you describe your research experience at UCLA?

My research experience has been amazing. Admittedly, coming into UCLA I was very nervous to venture out and get involved in research as I had little exposure to what research consisted of. However, due to PEERs and my mentor, research has helped me gain confidence in skills consisting from lab skills to networking, etc. I’ve gained so much knowledge about the lung cancer field that I otherwise would not have been exposed to and am excited to continue learning these next couple of quarters.

3. What is your year and major?

I am a third-year HBS (Human Biology and Society) major with a minor in Chicana and Chicano studies

4. What is one piece of advice you have for other students thinking about getting involved in research?

Look at sites such as Handshake or ask around to learn about labs. Put yourself out there as scared as you may be. Most importantly, when interviewing or thinking about potentially joining a lab, ensure you will have a great mentor who can guide you and that the overall lab environment makes you feel comfortable as you will be around this environment a lot.

5. Have you attended a conference before? If so, can you describe your experience on preparation, presenting, etc.?

I have not yet presented at a conference and will be doing so soon. I will be attending the CAMP scholars symposium where I will present my current findings on a poster. I have been in the process of gathering materials and thankfully my mentor has been there to guide me along the way. She has helped me feel prepared by giving advice and feedback whenever needed. I have presented in smaller settings such as the URC-Sciences Summer Program where at the end of our 10-week session we presented on what we did during our 10 weeks in the lab. My mentor also has us present in our lab meetings to begin facilitating our public speaking skills.

6. Have you had your work published? Can you talk about what that process was like?

I have not had any work published yet.

7. What are your future career goals?

My future career goals are up in the air. I know I certainly want to become a pediatrician but am constantly going back and forth on if I would like to pursue a PHD/MD or just continue with my original plan of getting an MD.

8. Please list any URC/departmental programs you are/were involved in. How has your experience been as a CAMP Scholar?

This past summer I was involved with the URC-Sciences Summer Program which was a 10-week full-time program. This program helped me develop the skills I would need for this school year to begin independently working on my experiments/projects. Through this summer program, it is how I became a CAMP scholar. Overall being a CAMP scholar has tremendously helped in my public speaking skills due to the presentations we had during the program and during our research seminar. Not only has it helped my public speaking, but has opened the door to opportunities of presenting my own research which I otherwise probably would not have done. This current school year I am part of the Undergraduate Research Scholars Program where I can continue working in my lab and then present my work/submit a paper, helping me gain more skills in the research field.

9. What was the impact of undergraduate research on your career path?

It has led to me seeing the many different career paths I can take, and really hone in on what exactly I would like to see myself doing in the future. As of now, it’s created some confusion on what path I’d take, but I know this is all part of the process of figuring out what is best for me.