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STEM + Interdisciplinary Undergraduate Research Symposium 2023: Biological & Life Sciences

Biological & Life Sciences (A - H)
Optimal Growth of Chlamydomonas Reinhardtii Quantifying Corticosterone in the Zebra Finch: Measuring Stress in Response to Social Isolation in a Gregarious Songbird Utilizing Organic Solvents for Biofuel Production from Lemna Minor’s Lipids
Kiara Alietti Diane Aliste Brandon M. Andino

A second-year student at the Wolfson Campus. She is a student at the Honors College as well as the President for both the Wolfson Pre-Health Club and Health and Wellness Club. This summer she was part of the STEM research program where she worked alongside her professor to learn more about the Optimal growth of Chlamydomonas and its ability to be used as biofuel. She is also a Volleyball Coach and enjoys working for her community. Kiara was able to accomplish getting the Silver service award in her first year at Miami Dade College. As a biology major, she looks forward to pursuing a career in Medicine and plans to transfer to her dream school, Duke. 

As an innate enthusiast of science and nature, Diana Aliste’s curiosity for the inner workings of reality and the natural world is what drives her to be an exceptional student of the classroom, and of life.  She is currently pursuing a bachelor’s in Biotechnology at Miami-Dade College and aspires to be part of the forefront of scientists that lead the cutting-edge discoveries of the future. In this final year of her undergrad, her main objective is to gain experience in different fields of scientific research and narrow in on her passion, setting the stage for her future in pursuing a graduate degree.

Currently a first-year student at Miami Dade College and is part of the Honors College program at the Wolfson Campus. He is completing his AA at Miami Dade College in biology, and he is pursuing a career as a radiologist. He is a member of the Student Government Association and Phi Theta Kappa. The research he is participating in focuses on lipid extraction for biofuel to further research in a clean source of energy. He is an active participant for helping the community through volunteer service. He believes that research with STEM Legacy is essential to his success as it creates and sharpens his skills. 

     
Characterization of Acetyl-transferases: Pat 1 and Pat 2 Effect of Zinc Sulfate (ZnSO4) on Broccoli Sprouts Evaluating Public Health Status using Microbiomes Prevalence of Legionella and the Microbiological Quality of Public Water Sources
Aizada Berdalinova Maria Bravo Lucciana Cabarico
[Bio is Unavailable] Chemical Engineering major Maria Bravo registered at Miami Dade College, West Campus, in Fall 2022, a year after arriving from Venezuela. She earned a GED and started college right away, where she went above and beyond her expectations. She earned the American Dream Scholarship and was nominated for the Academic Excellence Award. Bravo is the secretary of the Pre-Health Student Organization, a member of the Venezuelan Student Society, and the American Dream Scholars Club. She wants to get a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering and work in the research sector like she is doing now with Professor Dahis Manzanares in her Genes and Disease project. Maria would like to eventually obtain a master’s in analytical chemistry with the goal of teaching at college level. Lucciana is continuing her college career at Miami Dade College while working as an undergraduate intern from the MDC STEM Research Institute internship program. She has been a research intern in different areas, including cardiology, neuroscience, and primate evolution, at the Frankel Cardiovascular Center at the University of Michigan, Nova Southeastern University, and Florida Atlantic University, respectively. She was involved in extracurricular activities related to science, politics, and community services, such as the Global Solutions Conversation by the Stevens Institute, neuroscience research at NSU, and the Washington Center Seminar.
     
Mapping Urban Greenspaces Throughout Broward County, FL The Cycle of Bacteriophage Sf14 and its Genome Ejection Assessing the Fouling Community Development on Mangrove Prop Roots Across an Urbanization Gradient in Miami-Dade County
Nyla Crawford Maeva Dalce Sandy Del Sol
A third-year student at Miami Dade College, North Campus. Her reasons for becoming a research participant are to be able to study topics that allow her to better understand human effects on nature. After earning her associate degree in dietetics, she has turned her efforts to earning a bachelor’s degree in biotechnology. This would allow her to study food alternatives in cases of extreme natural events and create technologies that are able to remedy the effects of these disasters on food production.  [Bio is Unavailable]  Currently is working towards obtaining my AA in Biology at Miami Dade College to continue his studies until he becomes a doctor in medicine. Here at MDC, He has been on the Dean's list for two semesters, participating as a member of PTK and helping the community as part of the Digital Navigator Program. Since the medical field is ever evolving with new technics and treatments, He aims to participate in as many research and internships as possible to increase his skills and conduct research himself.
     
Analysis of Elodea Lipid Extraction and The Impact of Solvent Use Biofuel Lipid Extraction of Egeria Densa (Elodea) Potential Neuroprotective Effects of Broccoli Sprouts and Sulforaphane
Oscar De Leon Ricardo El Sayah Carol Espinal
Currently he is a second-year student at Miami Dade College, Wolfson Campus. He is a student at the Honors College as well as a member of the PTK Honor Society. He is currently pursuing his AA in Civil Engineering, with plans to transfer to a four-year institution to complete his bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering. His goals are to work with others in the development of new machines and tools as well as contribute to ongoing research in the
engineering field.
Ricardo El Sayah is from Lebanon, into music, and plays the piano. He loves science because it makes him think about life itself, and that is why he is studying Biology in the Honors Program at MDC for the first two years and then transferring to a 4-year institution to continue to Dental school and become a dentist. He is interested in being in this research program because he volunteered this past spring semester with Professor Morata and the other students, and it was an excellent opportunity for him to get used to the lab and its materials. This program will strengthen him to be ready and prepared for what the outside world has to offer! This knowledge may not help him now, but it sure will in the future.   Carol Maite Espinal Roman, a third-year college student finishing her associate in arts as an Engineering Science at Miami-Dade College West Campus, to continue her bachelor’s degree in Biomedical Engineering. Carol is a passionate, and focused individual who looks forward to challenges in life as she knows that hard work is privilege, enjoys learning new things. Some of her accomplishments include participating in research as this will be her second time attending a research symposium, her future goals include designing prosthetics after achieving bachelor’s degree and to expand her knowledge in the field of medicine. 
     
Using Environmental DNA to Determine Bacterial Diversity in Polluted & Non-Polluted Freshwater Sources in South Florida Assessing Belowground Response of Semi-native and Improved Grazing Pastures in Central Florida Due to Precipitation Variability. Discovery of Novel inhibitors of HIV Reverse Transcriptase (RT)
Elik Esquilin Dunnel Fennell Ferguson Richard
A passionate biology student at Miami Dade College, is captivated by animals and the intricate natural world. Recent work on a DNA barcoding project and current work on eDNA sampling research has sparked his fascination with Biotech's use in wildlife population studies, aligning with his conservation goals. The experience of investigating pollution's impact on ecosystems and its practical application has been enlightening. Elik is excited to contribute to biology, protect nature, and continue growing in the field. Dunnel Fennell is a student at Miami Dade North Campus pursing a B.S. in Biotechnology. He has participated in internships analyzing archaea in nitrification and assessing beach morphology in Northern Palm Beach Florida showing his versatility along with strengthening his skills in the research setting. Dunnel aspires to transfer to the University of Florida to study food science. As a food scientist, he would like to conduct research and create new food products. A driven first-year student at the Honors College's Homestead Campus, majoring in Veterinary Medicine. With a passion for animal welfare, Richard is committed to making a significant impact in the field and relentlessly pursues opportunities to advance his career. Over the next few semesters, he plans to gain invaluable experience in undergraduate research and clinical veterinary work, preparing himself for his academic career in the next 5-10 years. As he completes his internship, Richard is determined to hone his leadership skills, expand his network, and approach every action with intentionality. He is steadfast in his goal of establishing an exceptional sanctuary for exotic, domesticated, and ambassador animals.
     
Analysis of Three Fertilizer Treatments for use in the Production Schedule for Native Long Strap Fern Egeria densa (Elodea) Biofuel Lipid Extraction Preference of Hibiscus Bud Weevil (Anthonomus testaceosquamosus Linell) to Hibiscus Plant Parts
David Fundora Sophia M. Galvez Ana Garcia

A fourth-year student at Miami Dade College, Kendall Campus. Working on Landscape and Horticulture Technology degree. He has participated in the STEM Undergraduate Research Program since August 2021. Research on endangered Florida fern species. He has done volunteer work at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, The Kampong Botanical Garden, and at the Landscape Technology Nursery at Miami Dade College, Kendall Campus. He has earned college credit certificate Horticulture Specialist in 2021 and Horticulture Professional in 2022 from Miami Dade College. He also enjoys the outdoors and working with plants. His future goal is to continue to learn and gain experience in the different aspects of Landscape and Horticulture Technology.

 

Majoring in Biology at Miami Dade Honors College at Wolfson campus. She is currently working on getting her AA and aspires to become an OBGYN in the future. She is the secretary of the pre-health club working towards helping students learn more about the health field.

 

She is in her first year at Miami Dade College Homestead Campus. She is a student at the Honors College as well as the secretary of the YES for Environmental Sustainability club at the Homestead campus. Last fall semester, she had the pleasure of working with Professor Madison in hydroponics research. This opportunity allowed her to gain research skills that she did not have and found her deep interest in research. She is originally from Cuba and speaks Spanish, English, and is currently working on French and German. As a biology major, she looks forward to pursuing a career in veterinary medicine. For my Doctorate degree, I hope to attend UF School of Veterinary Medicine.
     
Obesity-Related Health Problems Lipid Extraction from Egeria densa (Elodea) for Biofuel Production Understanding the Phycosphere of Microcystis Aeruginosa
Natalia Gil Fabian E. Gonzalez Rugama Christian Goodwin (Morgana)
Currently she is a student at Miami Dade College, West Campus. She is Pursuing her associate degree in chemistry with the goal of transferring to a four-year institution where she will get her bachelor’s degree in chemistry. Natalia is an international student who came from Colombia in 2022 after graduating from high school. Eventually, she would like to work on her master’s degree in forensic chemistry with the purpose of focusing on the research field as she is starting now with Miami Dade College. A second-year student at Wolfson Campus. He is an Honors Student at Miami Dade College and is excited to pursue his studies in Biochemistry. Fabian collaborates with Dr. Juan Morata and his colleagues in their Biofuel Lipid Extraction Research throughout the Fall 2022 and Spring 2023 semesters. His long-term goal is to attend medical school and follow his aspiration of becoming a doctor of internal medicine. Nonetheless, due to the impact of the School of Science STEM Research Institute, Fabian has opened doors inside research and plans to continue to be active in research in the fields of biology, chemistry, and biochemistry in the future. He is dedicated, determined, inquisitive, and eager to help those around him in any way he can. He believes that by pursuing this path, he will be able to help others in the future when he enters the medical field and continues to encourage others as they work to reach their goals. A second-year student at Miami Dade College. They are pursuing their AA in Chemistry. After which, they plan to transfer to a four-year university to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Biochemistry.
     
How Does the Intron Variation rs7903146 in the TCF7L2 Gene Impact Diabetes Type 2? Comparison of Grafting Success of Common Mango Varieties in South Florida  
 
Manuela Grisales Graciela Hahn Berberena  
A biology student finishing her second year at Miami Dade College, West Campus in the summer of 2024. She has Colombian roots, making her complete most of her studies in her country. She started medical school there; however, she moved to the United States, which is the country where she was born. On the other hand, she mentions that her objective as a professional is to obtain a position in a large hospital and to be able to transmit all her knowledge to others while helping them to continue both themselves and their families forward. Thanks to this great life goal, she fights daily to achieve it. Her first step was the transfer of the country, later she managed to create the new Pre-Health Student Organization in the Miami Dade College West campus, together with some students and professors. Of said club, Grisales is the president, however, she is also a member of the Student Government Association. Grisales begins to see the importance of research and all the help and happiness it provides to others when they know that someone has identified something new. This is why she decides to give her all to participate in Professor Dahis Manzanares's research in her Genes and Disease project, something that she is very passionate about since one of her favorite subjects has been genetics. She hopes to meet all her challenges and, in the same way, create more to achieve her goal. A 19-year-old student at Miami Dade College – Kendall Campus. She is a second-year student working towards her AS in Landscape and Horticulture Technology. Throughout her classes in MDC, she has been able to learn the ins and outs of the landscaping industry. She has learned to: identify various kinds of plants including Florida natives, different methods of propagation, mixing fruit varieties, and the basics of nursery management. Her research program for this summer is about the Comparison of grafting success of scion varieties. During her research, her goal was to improve her data taking skills, make connections with like-minded people at MDC, and to perfect her grafting skills. In the future she hopes to own a nursery where she will grow and sell various kinds of ornamental plants and fruit trees.  
Biological & Life Sciences (I - W)
Investigating Cytotoxicity and Cell Motility Effects of Mexican Pepperleaf Extracts on Breast Cancer Cells Screening of Potential Biocontrol Agents Against Magnaporthe oryzae Microscopic Observations of Structural Differentiation of Gametophytes in P. calderonense and T. heracleifolia
Enmanuelle Iglesias Antonella Rodriguez Ortega
Enmanuelle Iglesias Sophia Jerez Devin Leon Fernandez de Castro
Currently in his 3rd year at Miami-Dade working on my bachelor’s in biotechnology. An intern at Galatea which is a clinical/ research laboratory that has a partnership with Miami-Dade. As of now his goal is to continue his education specifically in the field of biology, working this summer on this research project and Interning at the lab will greatly help him develop important skills that he will need in his career. His end goal is to pursue a PhD. in genetics, giving him the opportunity to further his career in the field of research and clinical studies. [Bio is Unavailable]

Is currently on the pathway to obtaining an Associate Degree in Biology. However, his goal is to become a pediatrician. This is his first year at Miami-Dade College. Although he is on the pathway to becoming a doctor, he has always had a passion for nature and its intricacies; as such, he decided to participate in the “Fern Project”, which essence is to educate people in fern cultivation. During his first semester on the project, he was able to discover a soil mixture that accelerated the growth of gametophytes, the first stage of fern germination. All this was exciting, but he still has more to learn and more to discover!

     
Synthetic Cannabinoids as a Potential Anti-inflammatory Treatment Against Bacterial Infection A Variant in TCF7L2 Associated with the Risk of Type 2 Diabetes is Inversely Related to Obesity Discovery of Novel Proteins Binding to HIV Reverse Transcriptase
Antonella Rodriguez Ortega
Claudia Leon Meijia Lin Ruth Marius
[Bio is Unavailable] A student at School for Advanced Studies – West Campus, currently working toward her Associates. She wants to major in Chemistry in university, with goals of entering medical school to become a surgeon. At SAS, she is a part of various STEM-related clubs like Mu Alpha Theta or Science National Honor Society. She hopes to gain experience conducting research and laboratory procedures from this summer research opportunity.

A first-generation Haitian American college student. She has participated in the Alternative Breaks Program, partnering with a non-profit called MEDICI,
addressing issues like homelessness, poverty, hunger, and education. She helped feed the homeless and tutor students in Georgia. Encouraged by this experience, she joined another Alternative Breaks Program in New York. On campus, she is actively engaged in student organizations such as the STEM Club, Women of Tomorrow Organization, and Haitian IBO Club. My ultimate goal is to pursue MS in Public Population Health research and a Ph.D. in Epidemiology at Boston University. Her aim is to focus on social and health research, analyzing and resolving major human health crises.

     
Role and Composition of Cyano-biomes and Environmental Factors During Blooms eDNA Collection from South Florida’s Water and Soil Lemna Minor (Duckweed) - Lipid Extraction for the purpose of Biofuel Production
Manuel Martinez Sara Martinez Christell Meonez
A dedicated second-year student at Miami Dade College, Padron Campus, pursuing an AA in Biomedical Engineering. A member of the Honors College Dual Language Program, he holds the position of President of the Student Government Association's Community First Committee. He serves as Vice President of Engineers for a Sustainable World (ESW). A passionate advocate for his community, Manuel actively participates in volunteering events such as food distributions and math tutoring, reflecting his commitment to positive change. Outside his academic pursuits, he enjoys reading, playing the piano, and practicing calisthenics. Manuel aims to transfer to a 4-year institution to further his study in Cognitive Neuroscience. With a keen interest in the confluence of biotechnology and computational neuroscience, he aspires to a future career that will allow him to contribute to groundbreaking advances in these fields. A second-year student at Miami-Dade College, pursuing a bachelor’s degree in biotechnology. She joined the undergraduate research program in spring of 2023 and has become passionate about her ongoing project. She has made the Dean’s list for five consecutive semesters and recently won an Academic Excellence Award in Biology, Health, and Wellness at the North Campus. She intends to continue her studies and attain a Ph.D. A second-year student at Wolfson Campus attending The Honors College studying biology as a pre-PA student. She is working towards getting certified as a Nursing Assistant to gain experience in the healthcare field. She plans to transfer to an out-of-state university to complete her bachelor’s in biology and master’s in physician assistant studies. She wants to work at a big hospital as an OBGYN PA and has a great passion for learning. She is a Miami Senior High School graduate and was a leader for multiple clubs as well as receiving multiple awards. She was the Class of 2022 president, secretary for the National BETA club, and Best Buddies. During her time at the Honors College, Christell has taken a role as a Biofuel research intern, became a motivated member of multiple clubs like Phi Theta Kappa and Student Government Association, Vice-president for the Pre-Health Club, and The Honors College Ambassador.
     
Examining the effects of Renin-Angiotensin System targeting medications on a mouse model of Cerebral Amyloid Angiopathy Survival of Micromonospora Strains to Dessication for Three Years Focusing on Microbes in Polluted and Clean Soil in South Florida
Shay Moen Stacy-Ann Morose Juliet Orozco
Graduating soon with her Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology from Miami Dade College, Miami, Florida. She is passionate about using biotechnology to solve real-world problems. During her time at MDC, she gained a strong foundation in the fundamentals of biotechnology, including molecular biology, biochemistry, and cell biology. She is also gaining experience in research, working in a lab on a project to study the identification of dementia and neurological diseases in rat models with a distinguished professor, Dr. Robinson, from Nova University. She is a highly motivated and results-oriented individual with a strong work ethic. She is eager to learn and grow in her career and make a positive impact on the world. A 4th year student at MDC, currently finishing my bachelor’s in science in biotechnology. She is from Haiti and has been living here for the past 4 years. Her hobbies include reading, music, Pilates, and she also enjoys going to the museum and parks. She is proud to be part of the PHI BETA DELTA honor society at Wolfson campus and a shark pal at North campus as well as her academic success. Her research interest revolves more about biology. After graduation, she hopes to work in the biotechnology industry in which she hopes to be able to apply her skills and knowledge and to learn much more about gut health and reproductive health. She also plans to get her master’s degree in biological sciences, possibly microbiology to be precise.

Currently working towards a bachelor’s in biotechnology while doing undergraduate research with eDNA. She wishes to work in agriculture to strengthen crops, or by making the world cleaner with bioremediation. She enjoys watching science fiction shows and crafting with her hands.

     
Assessing Nitrogen Concentration and the Impact of Reclaimed Water on Turfgrass Comparison of DNA extraction methods in recalcitrant tropical crop species Broccoli Sprouts and Your Health
Juan Porras Skarlet Quiroz Brenden Reyes
Is an international student from Colombia, currently in his fourth year at MDC. He is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in biological sciences with a concentration in Biotechnology. His job as a chemistry laboratory assistant has inspired him to further his education with the intention to gain the qualifications to enter the field of scientific research focused on ecological agriculture and teaching.

A second-year student attending Miami Dade College for Ocean Engineering. As a former swimmer and water sports enthusiast, she has always felt a great love for the ocean. She also feels very passionate about climate change and environmental issues and hopes to pursue a career involving both fields.

 

An MDC student in the STEM field and currently majoring in biological sciences. He has just completed his associate in agriculture and is willing to open himself up to more opportunities such as research. His decision to join the Genes and Diseases research was to learn; how research is conducted and how to express information he gained throughout. He hopes to share awareness about how nutrition can prevent diseases like diabetes. His future goal is to use all tools and resources to spread what he has learned to help others in life to achieve a healthy lifestyle. He is thankful for all the opportunities and will make sure to make the most of it.

     
Lipid Extraction of Lemna Minor for Biofuel Production Biofuel Lipid Extraction of Egeria densa (Elodea) Exploring the Link Between TCF7L2 Gene Variants and Schizophrenia
Britney Reyes Sarahi Rodriguez Ana Salvador Perez
Currently studying at Miami Dade College for her Associate Degree in. She is majoring in Computer Engineering. She greatly enjoys studying math and different sciences. However, she is also interested in politics and business. With her love for sciences, she applied for STEM research programs and found them amusing and fascinating. She plans to transfer to FIU after graduating and broaden his education with earning a Bachelor Degree.

Sarahi Rodriguez is now a second-year student at the Wolfson campus of Miami Dade Honors College. Currently majoring in environmental science, she wants to switch to environmental engineering. She is a board member of the YES! Club, an environmental awareness group. Additionally, With the assistance of the Earth's Ethics Institute, she was able to attend Narrowridge this past summer and spend an entire week living off the grid in the middle of nature. There, she learned how to live sustainably and exclusively with the natural resources that the planet has to offer. With this experience she gained, she hopes to find and produce new methods through her scientific profession so that low-income families can live sustainably and without harmful environments at a reasonable price. To contribute to the development of a more environmentally conscious society, one of my key objectives is to promote environmental literacy throughout communities and even globally.

She is from Cuba who has recently arrived in the US in search of exciting opportunities. She is an undergraduate first-year student at MDC and is on the path to becoming a bioengineer. She really likes crafting innovative solutions to address contemporary challenges. She is excited to join the 2023 Summer Research Program for STEM. This experience promises personal growth and the chance to navigate uncharted territories. Her goal is to contribute to groundbreaking advancements that make a tangible difference in the healthcare industry.
 

 

     
Topoisomerase-1 Inhibits HIV Reverse Transcriptase Pharmacogenomics in Miami Dade County: Prevalence of Genetic Variations in Clinically Relevant SNPs in CYP2C19 Genetic Mechanism of Melatonin Biosynthesis and Physiological Effects in Plants
Kerene Severe Reanna Thomas Marlon Vargas Castillo
Currently a student at Miami Dade College and is pursuing a B.S. in Biotechnology. She is currently working on an HIV research project with Dr. Madison, through MDC, to observe the interaction between HIV RT and the human body on a cellular level. Participating in the research gave Kerene a better understanding of what she wants to do in the future. Upon graduation, Kerene plans to go to veterinary school to obtain a PhD-DVM in veterinary medicine to promote the well-being of animals and humans. A fourth-year student at Miami Dade College and is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in Biotechnology. Through her internships at St. Thomas University, she has discovered a love for research. She hopes to pursue a Ph.D. in either molecular biology or biochemistry.

A biotech enthusiast with a strong background in research. His goal is to advance in bioinformatics, biotechnology studies, and use genetic engineering skills. He is thrilled to be part of the dynamic world of biotech, where science and tech work together for a healthier future.

     
Allele Mining for the Hull-Less Candidate Gene in Pumpkin Seed Pinus elliottii Juvenile Transplant for Reforestation: Phase II  
 
Yennifer Velazquez Rodriguez Tekiyah Wilson  
Currently a first-year student at Miami Dade College, Homestead campus, as well as Vice President in Phi Theta Kappa Honors Society. In fact, she is part of the first cohort of honors students in the Honors College at the Homestead campus. During this summer, Yennifer will be part of the STEM Research Institute where she will be working alongside a University of Florida mentor focusing on the application of conventional and molecular tools for vegetable improvement. As a biology major, she aspires to further her career in becoming an anesthesiologist in the future with great hopes of transferring to the University of Chicago. A proud SHARK and S.T.E.M. student. Currently, she is pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in Biopharmaceutical Sciences at Miami Dade College. Her love for science can be traced back to her early childhood where she spent most of her time outdoors discovering different life forms in her backyard. Her ultimate goal is to be a dermatologist and work alongside brilliant scientists in developing specialized skin care that does not harm the environment.