Biomedical & Life Sciences Summer Fellows

Dylan Agha

Program of Study:

Neuroscience Major, Pre-Med Track

Why did you choose to get into research?

I chose to get into research because I wanted experience for the medical field and I wanted to get involved with working in a university laboratory. 

Alexandria Balde

Program of Study:

Data Science and Biochemistry Minor

Why did you choose to get into research?

Volunteering at a computational biology summer camp and UMich’s Girls Who Code Club gave me the opportunity to teach and expand my passions for computer science and neuroscience. I aspire to explore and answer biological questions using my technical knowledge, and my research mentor during my freshman year is a pivotal inspiration for my interests in a research career.

Hailey Cunningham 

Program of Study:

Biomedical Engineering

Why did you choose to get into research?

Before the summer of 2024, I had yet to gain research experience but was extremely interested in the MD-PhD pathway. The UROP Summer 2024 Fellowship for Biomedical Life Sciences allowed me to gain ten full weeks of clinical (lab) research experience. This fellowship allowed me to gain experience in a laboratory with minimal Biological and Chemical course credit, which is rare in competitive health-centered programs. As a student researcher full-time with the U-M Cardiovascular Regeneration Core Laboratory, I contributed to the Bioengineering Human Heart Tissue project, focusing on 2-D and 3-D tissue models. Through this role, I have gained valuable experience in cell culture techniques and protocols, including the analysis of muscle contractions and cell imaging and the freezing and purification of cardiomyocytes. I am thankful I matched with my mentor, Dr. Todd Herron, who believes students learn by doing and making mistakes. I am so glad I got the opportunity to participate in this program and would recommend it to anyone who wants to see if research is for them!

Maia Linter

Program of Study:

Neuroscience (Pre-Medicine) Minor: French/Francophone Studies & Music

Why did you choose to get into research?

I chose to pursue research to deepen my understanding of immunology and disease pathology, while also building valuable professional connections with my mentors. Research has taught me how to approach complex questions with a structured yet open-minded mindset. I am passionate about addressing healthcare challenges, particularly in oncology, and I believe that a strong research foundation is essential for making evidence-based clinical decisions and effectively communicating scientific concepts to diverse audiences.

Hassan McQueen 

Program of Study:

Biomolecular Science on the pre-med track

Why did you choose to get into research?

I chose to pursue research to explore my interests and broaden my understanding of various areas within the medical field.

Gillian Moraga

Program of Study:

Biology, Health, and Society with a minor in Business Administration

Why did you choose to get into research?

I wanted to be able to apply the concepts I was learning in class to real life situations.

Sonia Parveen 

Program of Study:

Biopsychology, Cognition, and Neuroscience on the Pre-med track

Why did you choose to get into research?

My decision to pursue research stems from a deep fascination with how biological processes influence behavior and cognition. During my coursework in biopsychology, I became captivated by the brain's complex mechanisms, which sparked my desire to delve deeper into this field. My passion for mental health, in particular, drives me to contribute to research that has the potential to improve treatment options.

Currently, I am working under the mentorship of Dr. Valikodath, with the assistance of Molly, on a project that examines head positioning after vitrectomy surgery and its impact on patients' quality of life. My role involves recruiting patients for our surveys and collecting data from MiChart, providing me with hands-on experience in clinical research and patient interaction. I am learning so much from these brilliant mentors, and every day offers new opportunities to expand my understanding of the research process.

This experience has not only enhanced my critical thinking and problem-solving skills but also deepened my appreciation for teamwork and patient-centered care. As I pursue a career in medicine, I believe that combining research with clinical practice will enable me to provide more informed, compassionate care to my future patients.

Riley Stipe 

Program of Study:

Psychology

Why did you choose to get into research?

I want to become a clinical or counseling psychologist, so research is a huge part of my career

Aayush Udupi 

Program of Study:

Biochemistry

Why did you choose to get into research?

I chose to get into research because it allowed me to apply my curiosity and love for science in a hands-on way, while also contributing to advancements in the field.

Ally Wang 

Program of Study:

Biomedical Engineering major, Computer Science minor

Why did you choose to get into research?

I chose to get into research because I wanted to learn more about applications for the STEM knowledge I had gained through classes prior. It was incredible to be able to see concepts come alive in front of me, and to be hands-on alongside my mentors and peers at the lab.