Natalie Swerdlow

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STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

Meet Natalie Swerdlow! Natalie is a fourth-year Physiological Science major and Spanish minor, who plans on applying to medical school this upcoming cycle. She had previously co-authored a paper titled “Cell type and sex specific mitochondrial phenotypes in iPSC derived models of Alzheimer’s disease” and a review titled “Mitophagy and the Brain” during her involvement in the Wilkin’s lab at the University of Kansas. Read Natalie’s full interview below.

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

I had prior experience researching Alzheimer’s disease in a lab in my hometown at the University of Kansas and I knew that I wanted to continue work in the same field when transitioning to a research position as a student at UCLA. While exploring labs both within and outside UCLA, I broadened my search to find a project that truly resonated with me. This led me to the Koronyo Lab at Cedars-Sinai, and I started the summer after Sophomore year. The Koronyo Lab caught my attention because their research focuses on correlating brain pathology with changes in the retina. The therapeutic potential of this connection fascinated me and deepened my interest in joining the lab.

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

While there are many opportunities through UCLA, I’ve come to realize the potential in the surrounding areas as well. I’m especially grateful that I reached out to labs at Cedars-Sinai and ultimately joined the Koronyo Lab, especially since it’s so close to campus! Reflecting on my journey from when I first began research to where I am now, it’s clear how much I’ve grown and learned. It’s incredibly rewarding to work with such an amazing team, contributing to the advancement of our projects while continuously asking new questions to understand more about the field.

3. What is your year and major?

I am a fourth-year majoring in Physiological Science and minoring in Spanish.

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

Research can feel overwhelming, especially in the beginning, with all the new knowledge and techniques to learn. One of the most important aspects of research is to keep asking questions. This can not only drive the advancement of existing projects but can inspire your own project. When conducting an experiment, take the time to understand the purpose behind each technique or procedure. This insight can help you determine what aspects might be replicated if successful or modified to explore alternative hypotheses. Another piece of advice is to be patient with your project and not become discouraged if you need more time to achieve results. Starting out can be difficult, but by asking questions and being patient with yourself, you’ll gradually build the skills and confidence needed to make meaningful contributions.

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

I am planning to attend a conference in May for The Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology (ARVO) to present on an ongoing project on bacterial infection and inflammation in Alzheimer’s Disease!

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

I previously coauthored a paper titled “Cell type and sex specific mitochondrial phenotypes in iPSC derived models of Alzheimer’s disease” and a review titled “Mitophagy and the Brain” during my involvement in the Wilkin’s lab at the University of Kansas. I am currently working on a review about retinal inflammation in Alzheimer’s disease. The process can be long, however, I’m lucky to have worked with amazing lab members and a PI in both labs willing to help the editing process.

7. What are your future career goals?

I plan to apply to medical school this upcoming cycle! I want to stay involved in research throughout my medical career to continuously learn and grow in my field.

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

I have completed Research Practice 99 during the school year as well as Research Practice 195 during the summer.

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

Research has become a motivating factor in my pursuit towards becoming a physician. I’ve learned to ask sophisticated questions to acquire the knowledge needed to work independently on projects as well as communicate my findings. While some constraints in medicine are more obvious than others, research helps drive the advancement of medicine and potential to improve overall health and well-being on a broader scale. This makes me more excited for my career in medicine and commitment to lifelong learning.

 

Giselle Brown

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STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

Meet Giselle Brown! Giselle is a fourth-year Chemistry major and is currently involved in the Clare Boothe Luce Scholars Program. Giselle plans to apply to PhD programs in organic chemistry this Fall and will eventually use her degree to move into the field of drug design and discovery. She has attended a few conferences, with the largest being the American Chemical Society Fall 2023 conference in San Francisco, and is currently working on revisions for a paper submitted for publication. Read Giselle’s full interview below.

1. How did you first get involved in your research project? / How would you describe your research experience at UCLA?

I currently work in the Doyle Lab, an organic chemistry methods lab in the UCLA Chemistry and Biochemistry Department. I joined at the start of my sophomore year, and it’s been an incredible experience working on the development of new reactions. My time in the Doyle Lab has been fundamental to my UCLA experience; I’ve grown so much as a researcher and have benefited greatly from mentorship within the lab.

2. What is your year and major?

I am a fourth-year Chemistry major.

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

My advice for students considering research is to ensure that you enjoy the lab environment and are genuinely interested in the science. This passion will help you get the most out of the experience. Remember, you can always change labs if they aren’t meeting your needs or if you want to explore a different field.

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

I’ve attended a few conferences, with the largest being the American Chemical Society Fall 2023 conference in San Francisco. The most crucial part of preparation is practicing how to talk about your research. This doesn’t necessarily mean rehearsing with your poster; simply discussing your work with others is fantastic practice.

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

I’m currently working on revisions for a paper we submitted for publication. The process is lengthy and often involves waiting for feedback and completing multiple rounds of revisions, but it’s incredibly rewarding to see your work come to fruition.

6. What are your future career goals?

This fall, I am applying to PhD programs in organic chemistry. My goal is to use this degree to move into the field of drug design and discovery.

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

I am part of the Clare Boothe Luce Scholars Program. Through it, I’ve connected with other female-identifying researchers, and our discussions on gender issues in the physical sciences have been very impactful. The faculty leading the scholarship share valuable advice and stories about their experiences in academia, which has helped me feel more prepared to pursue a PhD in a traditionally male-dominated field.

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

Research has been instrumental in building my confidence as a student. It has given me hands-on experience that enhances my understanding of concepts in class. I’ve also found a supportive community of graduate student mentors who show the rewarding, fun side of research, which has inspired me to mentor my own undergraduate students in the future.

Sofia Mirabal

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STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

Meet Sofia Mirabal! Sofia is a senior majoring in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology (MCDB) with a minor in Biomedical Research. She is currently conducting an independent research project that investigates how the availability of the methyl donor, choline, influences the chromatin structure of liver cells. Sofia has been involved in the National Science Foundation-funded Louis Stokes California Alliance for Minority Participation in Research program since June of 2024 and is working toward becoming an obstetrician-gynecologist (OB-GYN), open a clinic centered on women’s empowerment and comfort, and conduct clinical and translational research for real change in the women’s health sector. She is currently in the process of writing a paper about her independent research project for submission to the Undergraduate Research Journal and will be attending the Annual Biomedical Research Conference for Minoritized Scientists this November to present a poster. One piece of advice Sofia has for students thinking about getting involved in research is to “be curious! Ask questions! Even if you think they are stupid, too simple, or even too complicated…Questions that seem silly will help you understand your work on a deeper level.”

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

I consider it fate how I reached this point in my undergraduate research journey. Currently, I am conducting an independent research project that investigates how the availability of the methyl donor, choline, influences the chromatin structure of liver cells. Two years ago, Dr. Tara TeSlaa was one of the presenters in my Biomedical Research 5HA course. I thought her techniques of using heavy-labeled isotopes to trace and quantify metabolites in vivo along with liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry was revolutionary. Before her talk, I was already interested in metabolism and its connection to epigenetics and cell identity. I joined the TeSlaa Lab Liver Project in June of 2023. The project is building a metabolic flux model of healthy mice liver to understand perturbations that occur during metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). I became an expert in the project workflow from mouse handling, to dissection of an array of tissues, to extraction of polar metabolites from tissue and serum samples, and finally interpretation of mass spectrometry data. I expressed to Dr. TeSlaa that the project would benefit from adding an epigenetic aspect. She agreed and connected me with Dr. Debora Sobreira who has been teaching me how to conduct a bulk RNA-seq and assay for transposase-accessible chromatin with Next Generation sequencing (ATAC-seq). Bulk ATAC-seq can show the whole-genome chromatin structure and regulatory element landscape of genes and capture changes related to DNA and histone methylation. My project began this summer of 2024 and involves the induction of MASLD in mice using a choline-deficient diet for a set time and analyzing the harvested livers. Comparisons will be drawn between the mice given the choline-deficient diet and a control diet. The project has conducted a three-week diet and is now proceeding with a twelve-week diet for comparison.

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

I remember how daunting it was reaching out to esteemed professors, just hoping for a response, let alone an interview. The idea of research can seem ambiguous at first. However, once you pass that hill, you find yourself looking into a field of opportunity. Being a researcher does not mean you have to know everything, it is about having rigor and staying curious. Just like science evolves, so do you as a researcher. You start as an excited novice and once you get into the groove of things, you feel confident with your work. Being in research has greatly improved my confidence in science and nurtured my curiosity. I was never afraid to ask questions or inquire about pursuing my ideas. Science is all about opportunities. Science is all about communication whether oral, illustrated, or written. I have greatly improved my presentation skills so that now I genuinely enjoy the chance to present about the work I do. Being in the TeSlaa Lab has been pivotal to my growth as a first-generation Cuban-American in STEM.

3. What is your year and major?

I am a senior — go class of 2025! My major is Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology with a minor in Biomedical Research.

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

One piece of advice I have for students thinking about getting involved in research is to be curious! Ask questions! Even if you think they are stupid, too simple, or even too complicated. I asked my lab technician what phosphate buffered saline (PBS) was because I wanted to know its purpose besides being step 5. Questions that seem silly will help you understand your work on a deeper level. You want to be purposeful with your experiments. If you are adding a reagent, question why you are doing that. If you want to understand the grand purpose of the project, dive into some literature about the real human implications. During a presentation, question the data being presented to you. Ask what the axes mean, the significance of the data, and the groups being studied. Ask why someone chose to use a particular method or interpreted their data a particular way. If you have a new idea, ask your PI if it has been done before and is feasible. It does not hurt to ask, it hurts more to not.

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

I will be attending the Annual Biomedical Research Conference for Minoritized Scientists this November to present a poster for my independent project. The title of my abstract is: Investigating the Influence of Choline on Hepatocyte Chromatin Structure in Relation to MASLD Development.

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

I am in the process of writing a paper about my independent research project for submission to the Undergraduate Research Journal.

7. What are your future career goals?

My career goals are to become an obstetrician-gynecologist (OB-GYN), open a clinic centered on women’s empowerment and comfort, and conduct clinical and translational research for real change in the women’s health sector.

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

I have been involved in the National Science Foundation-funded Louis Stokes California Alliance for Minority Participation in Research program since June of 2024.

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

Research is one of my passions. I want to revolutionize women’s health practices by being a leader in clinical and translational research as an OB-GYN. As an OB-GYN, I could not allow myself to repeat the cycle of neglect and pain that women face in healthcare. I will become a champion for advocating for female bodily empowerment by investing in modernizing practices.

Sohan Talluri

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STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

Meet Sohan Talluri! Sohan is a senior majoring in Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics (MIMG), with a minor in Biomedical Research. He has previously been involved in the Undergraduate Research Fellows Program in 2022-2023 and the Undergraduate Research Scholars Program from 2023-2024. Sohan currently serves as Editor-in-Chief for the UCLA Undergraduate Science Journal (USJ), a peer-reviewed publication registered by the Library of Congress featuring top-quality research performed by UCLA undergraduates in all STEM fields, including life sciences, engineering, statistics, physics, mathematics, and computer science. He has co-authored two review papers, published in Current Opinion in Biotechnology and Molecular Oncology, and has had extensive experience presenting his work at UCLA Undergraduate Research Week, as well as various symposia and conferences. One piece of advice Sohan has for other students thinking about getting involved in research is to “reflect on classes you found particularly intriguing and reach out to the course instructors and TAs. Though they may not have space in their lab, they may know other faculty who are looking for students.”

1. What is your year and major?

I’m a senior majoring in Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics (MIMG) with a minor in Biomedical Research.

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

The summer after my sophomore and junior years of high school, I got the opportunity to conduct research into the epigenetics of mental disorders and the neuroscience of chronic itch/pain respectively. These experiences cemented my desire to continue pursuing research as an undergraduate, but I hadn’t yet decided what field my passions lay in. As I reflected on my own childhood growing up with asthma, eczema, and food allergies (all incurable immune disorders), I realized that I wanted to conduct immunology research to develop more effective treatments for these diseases. I decided to major in MIMG as a result, and in the Winter of my freshman year, I cold-emailed various MIMG professors whose work intrigued me. I joined Dr. Yvonne Chen’s lab in Spring, and have since contributed to multiple projects, including my most recent work on engineering multi-output CAR-T cells to treat glioblastoma, a deadly brain tumor.

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

In a word, transformative. Both my wet lab work with Dr. Chen and clinical research with Dr. Maria Garcia-Lloret have given me near graduate-level experience in experimentation, data presentation, and publication, and this would not have been possible without the mentorship-centered culture of their research groups. My labs have also continuously supported my applications to numerous UCLA fellowships, summer research internships, and the national Goldwater Scholarship, all of which have added new perspectives to my growth as a scientist. Outside of the lab, working with the UCLA Undergraduate Science Journal and CTSI Research Associates Program has given me the opportunity to engage with like-minded peers and the broader scientific community at UCLA. These research experiences have challenged my original goal of solely becoming a physician, and I’m now confident in my choice to incorporate research into my future career.

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

Finding your lab at a large institution like UCLA can seem overwhelming, but there are a plethora of resources to support your search! To start, the URC–Sciences hosts informational workshops about getting into research, and also maintains the Undergraduate Research Portal, where faculty can post open positions from their labs. Another great method is to reflect on classes you found particularly intriguing and reach out to the course instructors and TAs. Though they may not have space in their lab, they may know other faculty who are looking for students. Finally, you can check out the faculty profiles on departmental websites and send a personalized email to any professor you’d like to work with. Most students send 10-20 emails before receiving a “Yes” when cold-emailing professors this way, so maintain that initial energy and continue reaching out until you find your perfect lab!

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

Along with presenting my work at three UCLA Undergraduate Research Week (URW) oral sessions, the UCLA MIMG Research Symposium, and three internal symposia during my summer internships at the NIH, I’ve also received the opportunity to present at the Southern California Conference for Undergraduate Research (SCCUR) and the National Conference for Undergraduate Research (NCUR) with support from the URC–Sciences Travel Grant. Each of these conferences were amazing platforms to showcase my efforts in the lab and also be inspired by my peers’ work. For poster sessions, I’ve found it particularly useful to prepare both a less technical version of my talk for non-experts, as well as a more in-depth version for scientists in my field. By contrast, the audience for an oral talk typically includes both generalists and specialists, so I make sure that my talk is comprehensible to friends and family while simultaneously conveying enough detail to impress my lab mentors.

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

I’ve co-authored two review papers: one in Current Opinion in Biotechnology on “Advances in Promoting Chimeric Antigen Receptor T cell Trafficking and Infiltration of Solid Tumors” and one more recently in Molecular Oncology as “Metabolic Dialogues: Regulators of Chimeric Antigen Receptor T cell Function in the Tumor Microenvironment.” As a whole, the publication process is long but immensely rewarding. I began working with my mentors to outline our articles a full year before their eventual publication, and the subsequent drafting, submission, and revision steps gave me firsthand experience in building a scientific narrative, designing figures, and making edits following peer review. If you are looking to publish your own work as an undergraduate, check out the UCLA Undergraduate Science Journal (USJ), which annually publishes peer-reviewed undergraduate research and review articles across all STEM fields.

7. What are your future career goals?

I plan to conduct translational research into developing more effective cancer and allergy immunotherapies as a physician-scientist at a major academic hospital.

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

With the URC-Sciences, I have been involved with the 2022-2023 Undergraduate Research Fellows Program (URFP), 2023-2024 Undergraduate Research Scholars Program (URSP), and I currently serve as the Editor-in-Chief of the UCLA Undergraduate Science Journal (USJ). In the MIMG Department, I am involved in Path 2, the research-intensive pathway for my major, as well as MIMG Departmental Honors, where I will be completing my senior thesis. Along with these programs, I am also part of the Biomedical Research minor and UCLA College Honors.

Ashlyn Sloane

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STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

Meet Ashlyn Sloane! Ashlyn is a senior majoring in neuroscience and is looking to pursue a PhD in Neuroscience or Human Genetics. She is involved in UCLA’s Amgen Scholars Program, a national program aimed to increase learning and networking opportunities for students committed to pursuing a career in science or engineering. Her current research project explores mTOR signaling defects and the potential rescue of cellular phenotypes by rapamycin of Jordan’s syndrome patient cell lines. When asked about one piece of advice Ashlyn would have for students just getting into research she says, “Don’t be afraid to do research in a field outside of your comfort zone! You might feel like you have to do research in a field that reflects exactly what you want to study for your career, but your undergraduate experience is a perfect time to explore.”

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

I chose to major in Neuroscience because I am passionate about researching neurodevelopmental disorders, particularly autism. I reached out to Dr. Wells during my sophomore year because I was drawn to his interdisciplinary approach to research and his use of novel techniques, and I feel so lucky that I am a part of such a caring, dedicated team! My current research project explores mTOR signaling defects and the potential rescue of cellular phenotypes by rapamycin of Jordan’s syndrome patient cell lines. Jordan’s syndrome is characterized by autism and macrocephaly, and it has been gratifying to research this disorder. My research aligns closely with the field I want to pursue for my career, which is very motivating!

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

My research experience at UCLA has been incredibly rewarding and inspiring! I have grown as an undergraduate researcher far more than I could have imagined when I first started college. But more importantly, in both of my undergraduate research experiences, I have found a community of like-minded individuals who are passionate about mentorship and pursuing answers to complex questions. They have helped me grow as a person and have shown me that the research environment can be uplifting and collaborative.

3. What is your year and major?

Senior; Neuroscience

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

Don’t be afraid to do research in a field outside of your comfort zone! You might feel like you have to do research in a field that reflects exactly what you want to study for your career, but your undergraduate experience is a perfect time to explore. You have an incredible opportunity to learn and grow in a research lab as an undergraduate, so take advantage of this! If you have your heart set on cancer research, but you hear of a cool lab that studies cardiovascular disease, don’t be afraid to pursue that path. Your interests will evolve as you gain more experience, and sometimes, it’s just as important to figure out what you don’t like as it is to figure out what you do like.

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 with the Amgen Scholars Program about my summer project at the Undergraduate Research Showcase for SPUR Programs! It was a fantastic experience to prepare for an oral presentation. You have to be able to communicate the bigger picture “why” of the research that you’re conducting to people who might not know that much about it. For example, I’m researching a rare neurodevelopmental disorder that affects only a small subset of people worldwide. I didn’t know about the disorder before I started doing research in my lab, so it’s extremely important to convince people to care about what you’re working on when you share an oral presentation.

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

My first graduate student mentor, Ileana Callejas from the lab of Dr. Jennifer Jay, submitted a paper and it’s currently in review! We researched the impacts of antibiotic resistance genes in the LA River Watershed. I will be listed as one of the contributing authors. It was an amazing experience to learn from Ileana during her last year of graduate school, and I was very proud to contribute to such an important and relevant topic.

7. What are your future career goals?

One of my future career goals is to pursue a PhD in Neuroscience or Human Genetics and ultimately study the genetic and molecular origins of neurodevelopmental disorders. I also want to find ways to incorporate more science education and awareness into my research so that people who have personal connections to these neurodevelopmental disorders, but may not have a scientific background, can learn more!

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

I have also been extraordinarily lucky to expand my research experience at UCLA through the Amgen Scholars Program! This program has been a rewarding and valuable experience that has taught me how to communicate about science, how to stay motivated despite setbacks, and how to navigate the next steps after graduation. It has been very fulfilling to work on my individual project in a focused environment and to dedicate all of my time to troubleshooting, asking scientific questions, and growing my confidence.

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

Undergraduate research has shown me the path I want to take for my career path, and it has shown me that research can be exciting, frustrating, motivating, and challenging. Research is not a linear path, but when you reach your end goal, reflecting upon that twisting, up-and-down path makes the successes that much more rewarding!

10. What are your pronouns?

she/her

Helen Benitez

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LATINX HERITAGE MONTH

Meet Helen Benitez! Helen is a third-year Physiological Science major with a minor in Global Health. She is aspiring to obtain a medical career to expand the services available to minority groups in low-income areas and diversify the field to enhance the level of understanding between patients and the care team to improve the overall quality of care. Read more about what she’s currently researching, a bit about her background, and advice she has for other Latinx students!

1. What are your pronouns?

She/Her

2. What is your year and major?

I’m currently a junior (Class of 2026) majoring in Physiological Science with a minor in Global Health.

3. In one sentence, what are you currently researching?

I’m currently involved in cardiovascular research in Dr. Tzung Hsiai’s lab, specifically the development of cardiac atrioventricular valves!

4. What research experience did you have before joining a lab at UCLA?

None! As a first-generation college student, I had no idea what research was until coming to UCLA. I was first introduced to research through the UCLA Program for Excellence in Education and Research in the Sciences (PEERS) during my first year.

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

During my first year, I heard about an opportunity to conduct cardiology-related work in Dr. Tzung Hsiai’s cardiovascular bioengineering lab through a recent graduate in my club (Spanish in Healthcare). I was drawn by the lab’s focus on cardiology since it was a field within medicine that I was most interested in pursuing in the future. Upon speaking with graduate students, touring the lab, and discussing the current lab projects, I initially joined the lab as a student volunteer to work on a zebrafish project involving chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity associated with Doxorubicin (Dox). I recently transitioned my focus to work on our cardiac valve development project earlier this year.

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

Challenging, Exciting, Insightful/Invaluable. Getting involved with research at UCLA has provided me with an amazing opportunity for growth as an individual and scientist. Throughout my undergraduate career, I gradually gained confidence in my abilities and sought to become more involved in research: first as a student volunteer as a freshman, to now, working as a MARC trainee in my lab. It challenged me to think critically, embrace flexibility, and give myself grace, not only when learning new concepts or lab techniques, but also when dealing with personal struggles such as imposter syndrome. Previously, my scope of knowledge about STEM careers was limited since I had no family members or relatives who worked in such fields/areas. My research experience served as an avenue for exposure to science careers which greatly helped me consolidate my future career choice. The mentorship I have received from lab members and my PI has been invaluable to my growth as a scholar. The insights they have shared about their academic and personal journeys have broadened my scope of understanding of graduate/professional school and have begun to minimize the disadvantages I experience as a first-generation college student.

7. Can you share a bit about how your experiences growing up and your cultural background has influenced your decisions on your academic and career journey?

Growing up in an immigrant low-income household, I experienced many challenges due to my disadvantaged background and learned to be self-reliant at a young age. As the second oldest of 5, I desired to be a role model for my younger siblings and aspired to pursue higher education – an opportunity my parents never had – to advocate for the needs of my Latino community. Having experienced first-hand many health disparities due to my background, I aspire to obtain a medical career to expand the services available to minority groups in low-income areas and diversify the field to enhance the level of understanding between patients and the care team to improve the overall quality of care. In particular, I am interested in gaining exposure to the field of cardiology as understanding the functionality of the heart is critical in developing effective CVD treatments. Such advancements in medicine are significant since cardiovascular diseases disproportionately affect the Latinx community. As a Latina, I want to get involved in such areas of research to contribute towards discoveries in medicine that will empower Latinos and other people of color by addressing and reducing health illnesses that reduce their quality of life and ability to uplift themselves. The lack of Latinos/Hispanics in professional fields such as medicine and academia/science continues to ignite my passion for empowering my Latino community by being a role model to demonstrate that we can attain success through resilience and hard work.

8. Do you have any advice that you would give to Latinx students who are thinking about pursuing STEM or getting involved in research?

  • Don’t let imposter syndrome prevent you from even applying to desirable opportunities! There’s no harm in applying, so go for it!
  • Learn to advocate for yourself and build a supportive community that will encourage your research endeavors! I understand that it can be extremely daunting and discouraging to be the only Latino/Hispanic in the room, but remember, you have a seat at the table!
  • If you’re struggling with finding a research opportunity, talk to your peers and see how they got involved with their labs!

9. Please list any URC/departmental programs/clubs you are involved in.

  • Research related:
    • UCLA Program for Excellence in Education and Research in the Sciences (PEERS)
    • UCLA CARE Fellows
    • Maximizing Access to Research Careers (MARC) U*STAR Program
  • Non-research related:
    • PULSE UCLA (Pre-medical Undergraduate Learning through Shadowing Experience)
    • UCLA Spanish in Healthcare

Isabel Rosales

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LATINX HERITAGE MONTH

Meet Isabel Rosales! Isabel is a third-year Biochemistry major, with an aspiring minor in Chicana/o Studies. She is currently doing research with the Diaconescu Group, exploring the reactivity of a metal-center catalyst to polymerize novel epoxide monomers. Read more about Isabel’s research-packed background and how her cultural background has influenced her current academic and career goals.

1. What are your pronouns?

She/Her

2. What is your year and major?

Third Year and Biochemistry Major, with an aspiring minor in Chicana/o Studies

3. In one sentence, what are you currently researching?

I am currently exploring the reactivity of a metal-center catalyst to polymerize
novel epoxide monomers.

4. What research experience did you have before joining a lab at UCLA?

Before joining the Diaconescu Group, my research experience consisted of my participation in the Biomedical Sciences Enrichment Program (BISEP) in the summer of 2023. In this program I learned about common experiments and techniques used in molecular biology laboratories.

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

I was looking to join a research laboratory that focused on chemistry and I saw that my Program for Excellence in Education and Research in the Sciences (PEERS) class page posted that the Diaconescu Group was looking for new undergraduates. As such, I began to read about their research concerning the use of redox-switchable catalysis to synthesize biodegradable multi-block copolymers. I was really intrigued by the process and the fact the synthesized polymers would be biodegradable. So, I sent an email to Dr. Diaconescu and she paired me up with my graduate student mentor, Shiyun Lin.

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

My research experience at UCLA could not have happened without the help of PEERS. They have helped me become less anxious about participating in research and seeing students like me, latina and first-generation students, in research. I find research highly rewarding as I am always learning and improving my skills in the laboratory. I get to apply the topics I learn in lecture to my research skills and vice versa. Being in research has only strengthened my interest in a career in the STEM field.

7. What are your future career goals?

Following the completion of my bachelor’s degree, I want to attend graduate school to study chemistry. Currently, I would like to research either materials chemistry or biochemical pharmacology. Post-graduate school I hope to either work for industry or for the government.

8. Can you share a bit about how your experiences growing up and your cultural background has influenced your decisions on your academic and career journey?

Growing up, my parents always emphasized to me that education and hard work were the most important things. Despite not having gone to college, my parents are the smartest people I know and I strive to be like them. In high school, I discovered my love for chemistry and decided I wanted to pursue that in university. My dream school has always been UCLA, as my aunt who did go to college attended here. As such, receiving my acceptance meant so much to me and my family. I strive to embody the two principles my parents instilled in me: learning and hard-work.

9. Do you have any advice that you would give to Latinx students who are thinking about pursuing STEM or getting involved in research?

Believe in yourself, you know more than you think you do. As long as you are interested in STEM, you are qualified to pursue it. You are never alone at UCLA, there are so many programs and the Undergraduate Research Center to help you get into research. They want to see you succeed and want to help you in your academic journey here at UCLA.

10. Please list any URC/departmental programs/clubs you are involved in.

I was involved with the Program for Excellence in Education and Research in the Sciences (PEERS), CARE Fellows, and Biomedical Sciences Enrichment Program (BISEP). I am currently apart of UC LEADS.

Cristian Ponce

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LATINX HERITAGE MONTH

Meet Cristian Ponce, a third-year Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics major, minoring in Biomedical Research. The URC-Sciences was able to learn a bit about Cristian’s current research in Dr. Anthony Covarrubias’ lab and how his cultural background ties into what is he working towards today. Read more about Cristian below:

1. What are your pronouns?

He/him/his

2. What is your year and major?

I am a rising third-year student majoring in Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics and minoring in Biomedical Research.

3. In one sentence, what are you currently researching?

My current research aims at identifying genes associated with mitochondrial DNA production and how they can possibly serve as a novel target for treating age-related inflammation and diseases.

4. What research experience did you have before joining a lab at UCLA?

Absolutely none! One of my biggest insecurities when initially applying for lab positions was the fact that I had no understanding of practical research skills. But that’s the great thing about labs here at UCLA: they make sure to create a learning and collaborative environment that allows you to develop as a successful student researcher.

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

At first, it took a lot of reading to understand potential knowledge gaps I could address for my project. But then, after meetings with my mentors, I was guided to my first project, looking at a mitochondrial-bound enzyme necessary for DNA synthesis and how it can be targeted to attenuate markers of sterile inflammation.

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

It has been an amazing experience to participate in research at UCLA, especially in Dr. Anthony Covarrubias’s lab. The environment is welcoming, collaborative, and tight-knit. I’ve learned so much already and am super excited to see where my next two years at the lab will take me.

7. What are your future career goals?

Ultimately, my plan is to pursue a PhD and conduct research in aging and age-related diseases. I think it would be super neat to contribute to such a new and rapidly expanding field and support aging populations in increasing their quality of life.

8. Can you share a bit about how your experiences growing up and your cultural background has influenced your decisions on your academic and career journey?

Growing up in a Mexican household, right from a young age, I learned what it means to put in an honest day’s work and embrace resilience. This past summer was my first time constantly working on my project, and while there were plenty of ups and downs (mostly downs), I was motivated and driven towards my work. These were necessary and valuable experiences that demonstrated the difficulty but also the beauty behind biomedical research. So, going forward, I am even more motivated to conduct research and build a successful career in academia.

9. Do you have any advice that you would give to Latinx students who are thinking about pursing STEM or getting involved in research?

I would highly recommend that everyone reflect on their experiences and determine what fuels them to pursue STEM or become involved in research. Most of the time, research can be tedious, frustrating, and confusing. So, it takes a lot of motivation and resilience to become successful and create a lasting impression. But having that sense of drive, support, and vision can really make a difference.

10. Please list any URC/departmental programs/clubs you are involved in.

This past summer, I was fortunate to participate in the URC-Sciences Summer program under the direction of Dr. Jorge Avila. Going into this fall quarter, I will be participating in the Louis Stokes California Alliance for Minority Participation program funded by the NSF.

Angela Liang

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STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

Meet Angela Liang! Angela is a fourth-year Physiological Science major and 2024 Amgen Scholar looking to “help advance scientific knowledge and hopefully use science to develop therapies and tools that enhance quality of life!” She credits the Amgen Scholars Program for allowing her to be “fully immersed in research as a full time researcher without the pressures of exams and classes” and feels that the program “does a very good job of developing each scholar as a scientist and equipping [students] with the skills to embark on the next part of [their] scientific journey.” She advises other students to “not be afraid to reach out to professors to ask about their research! In my experience, it has always been really fun. You never know until you ask, and the worst thing anyone can say is ‘no’.” Read more about Angela below.

1. How did you first get involved in your research project?
When I was first looking for a lab, I explored the faculty page of my departmental website, where there will often be a little blurb describing each faculty’s research interests or bio. I found a couple of professors whose research interests aligned with mine and explored their lab website and publications to get a sense of the specific projects in the lab and reached out!

2. How would you describe your research experience at UCLA?
My research experience has been incredibly rewarding and enriching. It is so exciting to be able to help advance scientific knowledge and work towards answering relevant questions. I have also met some of the best mentors and friends through research, and I am grateful that they have helped me become the person and scientist I am today.

3. What is your year and major?
I am a 4th year majoring in Physiological Science.

4. What is one piece of advice you have for other students thinking about getting involved in research?
One piece of advice is to not be afraid to reach out to professors to ask about their research! In my experience, it has always been really fun. You never know until you ask, and the worst thing anyone can say is “no” 🙂

5. Have you attended a conference before? If so, can you describe your experience on preparation, presenting, etc.?
I have attended a couple of symposia where I had to present! Although presenting may seem intimidating, it is really fun to create a poster or presentation and discuss your project with others. To prepare to present, I recommend practicing with your research mentor, who can give valuable insights as someone familiar with the field. Because you will most likely be presenting to scientists who study different fields as well as those in your field, I also recommend practicing with mentors or friends whose research is not in your field, as they can give you a different perspective and advice on topics such as clarity. They can also let you know whether the terms and jargon that you are familiar with day to day are confusing, and you can edit your presentation based on their feedback.

6. Have you had your work published? Can you talk about what that process was like?
I have not had my work published.

7. What are your future career goals?
Since there is so much unknown, I would like to help advance scientific knowledge and hopefully use science to develop therapies and tools that enhance quality of life!

8. Please list any URC/departmental programs you are/were involved in. How has your experience been in AMGEN?
I was a part of the UCLA Amgen Scholars Program 2024 cohort and had a wonderful experience. It was rewarding to be fully immersed in research as a full time researcher
without the pressures of exams and classes. Additionally, the program does a very good job of developing each scholar as a scientist and equipping us with the skills to embark on the next part of our scientific journey. We had a wonderful writing instructor dedicated to helping us with our research papers and faculty mentors who guided us through the PhD or MD-PhD application process. We also had a symposium where we had the opportunity to meet Amgen Scholars from other universities in North America and learn about careers in science, which was eye-opening.

9. What was the impact of undergraduate research on your career path?
Before getting involved in research, I had little idea what a career in academia or industry would entail or that a career in research was possible. My research experiences have helped me realize my passion for research and allowed me to gain valuable insights into careers in science, which helped me solidify my goals.

10. What are your pronouns?
She/Her

Emily Silva

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LATINX HERITAGE MONTH

Meet Emily Silva! Emily is a third year Neuroscience major with a minor in Musicology. She is currently conducting research in the Massaly Lab at UCLA that aims to understand pain-induced neuronal alterations and how they affect motivation-reward systems within the brain, paving the way for improvements in pain pharmacology. Read more about Emily’s research experience at UCLA, how her cultural background has influenced her academic and career journey, and advice she had for other Latinx student researchers.

1. What are your pronouns?

I use she/her/hers pronouns.

2. What is your year and major?

I am a third year Neuroscience major with a minor in Musicology.

3. In one sentence, what are you currently researching?

As an undergraduate SRP student in Massaly Lab at UCLA, I aid the team in research that aims to understand pain-induced neuronal alterations and how they affect motivation-reward systems within the brain, paving the way for improvements in pain pharmacology.

4. What research experience did you have before joining a lab at UCLA?

Before joining Massaly Lab, I took a two year AP Capstone course administered by the College Board in high school. This course required me to design an independent project. I investigated the effects of organic and non-GMO corn on the nutritional value of soil. After measuring pH, ammonia, potassium, and nitrogen over four weeks, I compiled a research paper that explained how GMOs are part of a solution to mass producing food when faced with climate change and soil erosion.

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

I first became involved in my research project after discussing with my mentors what I can do to help with a larger project that explores whether or not inhibiting a specific set of neurons causes effects in motivation. I communicated that my interests lie in aseptic surgery techniques and data analysis which led me to better understand the motivation-reward systems in the brain.

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

My research experience at UCLA is full of learning opportunities and is an overall challenge to remain proactive. My mentors provide me with much needed guidance in the wet lab environment and teach me the basic procedures I’d need to know as a student researcher from using proper protective equipment to operating a cryostat. My neuroscience courses reinforce my knowledge of the brain and shed light on the implications of scientific research in society, offering increasingly better alternatives to invasive procedures done on a number of health conditions.

7. What are your future career goals?

My goal is to continue developing my skills in research by learning how to expertly operate equipment, conduct experiments, and write out research papers. I’ll eventually apply these skills to graduate school after I complete my undergraduate years at UCLA.

8. Can you share a bit about how your experiences growing up and your cultural background has influenced your decisions on your academic and career journey?

I am an East LA native with a strong history of Hispanic culture and lived experiences supporting my development. As a first generation college student, I’ve learned how valuable it is to receive an education when many people who make up the pillars of my life rarely had the opportunity to think about pursuing a higher education. Instead, they thought about where to work or when the rent was due. Those before me worked under the sun so I can work with an air conditioner in the room. Neuroscience research as a career allows me to prioritize my interests and contribute to something larger than myself. With the aid of the scientific community, mentors, and peers, I am continually excited to help solve problems that impact people’s lives and represent my community in a field where Hispanics are largely underrepresented.

9. Do you have any advice that you would give to Hispanic students who are thinking about pursuing STEM or getting involved in research?

My advice to Hispanic students thinking about pursuing careers in STEM or exploring the sciences during their college career is to follow wherever your curiosity leads you with reasonable goals in mind. As a young student in college, you have little career experience and must learn, fail, and try again at any skills you’d like to develop inside or outside of research. Use this season of learning to your advantage. By consistently developing those skills, no matter how disconnected they may seem from the main goal, they will become more valuable to you in the future when you slowly see the life you worked for come into light.

10. Please list any URC/departmental programs/clubs you are involved in.

I am a former Care Extender volunteer and am currently involved in the PEERS, AAP, and LEAF programs at UCLA