Skip to Main Content

STEM Interdisciplinary Undergraduate Research Symposium 2024: Biological & Life Sciences

Banner

Biological & Life Sciences

Biological & Life Sciences (A - H)
Optimizing The Growth Of nitrogen-fixing Bacteria Bioinformatic Analysis of a Stress Responsive Thaumatin-like Gene in Plants Analysis of Spore Germination and Viability of Florida Endangered Ferns
Sofia Abarca Ivan Almonte Stephanie Ayala

Sofia Abarca Sosa just finish her associated of Arts in Biology in Miami Dade College in the year 2024. She also finished her research in STEM at the University of Florida, in the department of Environmental Horticulture, which her research was based on turfgrass. In this research she enjoys and learns how to work outside in the field and in the chemistry lab and sees how the turfgrass developed and its process throughout its growth. Her goals are to continue studying for a Bachelor degree of Science in Biopharmaceutical. Sofia’s goal and the end would be to become someone in the medical field.

Ivan Almonte is a dedicated student at Miami Dade College, currently completing his Associate of Arts degree. As a first-generation Hispanic student with a strong passion for biomedical engineering, Ivan plans to transfer to Florida International University to pursue his bachelor's degree in this innovative field. His academic journey is driven by a desire to contribute to advancements in medical technology and improve patient care. Ivan's commitment to excellence and his proactive approach to learning make him a promising future leader in biomedical engineering.

 

Stephanie is currently finishing her Associates in Landscape and Horticulture Technology at Miami Dade College and is pursuing a Bachelors in Botany. She is passionate about plant conservation and the vital role it plays in healthy ecosystems. Her academic journey has been fueled by hands-on experience, including volunteer work at the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden seed lab and through field work volunteering, actively participating in native plant rehabilitation and conservation efforts.

While her academic journey fuels this passion, she also brings a wealth of experience from her work as a part-time veterinary technician, fostering her understanding of the interconnectedness of all living things. She aspires to travel the world, applying her knowledge and skills to conservation efforts across diverse ecosystems and is excited to connect with fellow researchers and explore new avenues for safeguarding the plant kingdom.

 
     
Preliminary Phytochemical Screening and Chromatography Analysis Evaluating Media Effects on Novel Pepper Establishment in South Examination of Sediment Substrate Temperatures and Sediment Characteristics
Franielka Chang-Ramirez Stephanie Clervil Nyla Crawford
Franielka Chang-Ramirez was born and raised in Miami, Florida and is currently an honors College student at MDC majoring in Biology in hopes to become a doctor. Throughout Franielka’s life, her immigrant mother and sister are her biggest inspiration to keep pushing forward to earning her medical degree at the University of Florida. She thrives to be just as hardworking and independent as they are and become the first doctor in the family as a first-generation student. Franielka thrives for academic excellence and hopes to make a positive impact in her community through her field of medicine. She recognizes the difficulty in accessing feminine hygiene products with the nation’s current economic state and hopes to care for and bring awareness for those who are unable to obtain basic necessities. Therefore, during her time at MDC, she plans on leading her club We Women to expand outside of school and provide feminine hygiene to those in need while also offering emotional support and women empowerment. Franielka’s current leadership role as Director of scholarships at MDC’s PTK Honor Society will also allow her to share the vast opportunities the club offers. With this leadership role she gains communication skills, critical thinking, and collaboration, which are all the necessary characteristics to be a doctor. Stephanie Clervil is an undergraduate student who received her AA with high honors and is now focusing on her major in biopharmaceuticals at MDC, North Campus. Throughout each semester, she has earned a position on the Dean's list and maintained a 4.0 GPA. Stephanie has always been inspired to pursue her career in the healthcare field. Her natural desire to aid others and make positive changes continues to drive her. She is known for her kindness, devotion, and her all-or-nothing personality, which embodies what it means to be successful within the healthcare field. In addition, she helps her community better by taking the initiative and working with different food banks or speaking against healthcare issues affecting minorities and resolutions for them. She believes that research-based experience can go far toward discovering valuable techniques and information that will enhance medical practices. Her goal is to become a successful doctor whom her patients can fully put their trust in! As president of the Black Student Union and a student at Miami Dade College North Campus, Nyla Crawford aims to achieve greatness in her personal and academic career. As a student completing her bachelor’s degree in biotechnology, she strives to find opportunities that relate to her career path and ways to learn more about the preservation, rehabilitation, and expansion of our natural resources. She has plans to further her education in an M.S./Ph.D. after completing her current studies.
     
Cultivating Anabaena for Cyanotoxin Studies Arboreal Vertebrate Diversity Monitoring in the Tanoé-Ehy Forest, Ivory Coast Determining Optimal Solvent Ratio in the Lipid Extraction of Elodea
Luis Cruz Natalie de la Gándara Oscar De Leon

Luis Cruz is a first-year student at Miami Dade College, Padron Campus, pursuing a degree in Electrical Engineering. Passionate about scientific research and innovation, Luis is currently engaged in multiple projects that highlight his dedication to advancing scientific knowledge and practical applications. His primary research focuses on developing an inoculation process for cyanobacteria, paramecium, and euglena, aiming to provide the Padron Campus with self-sufficient biological resources. Additionally, he is investigating methods to preserve halobacteria in liquid medium, which could revolutionize the standard practices for handling these microorganisms.

Luis is also working on an ENF research project under the mentorship of Professor Jyrko Correa. His broad interests and ambitions extend beyond his major, as he actively engages in creative pursuits such as playing the piano and 3D modeling. With a vision to contribute significantly to both scientific and creative fields, Luis exemplifies a well-rounded and driven individual committed to excellence in all his endeavors.

 

 Natalie de la Gándara is the coordinator for Climate Week Miami, where they curate events featuring announcements, discussions, and interviews with international leaders from business, government, and the climate community. With a robust background in environmental research, they have served as an Environmental Specialist for the Department of Agriculture and have engaged in wildlife research and biodiversity rehabilitation projects abroad, focusing on restoring indigenous forests. She holds a master’s degree in environmental science, policy, and management, having completed a thesis on the "Assessment of the toxicity and bioaccumulation of silver nanoparticles on Chlamydomonas reinhardtii and its diet-borne transfer onto Daphnia magna." Natalie's work emphasizes a commitment to understanding and mitigating environmental challenges through informed policy and scientific inquiry. She is currently completing an associate’s in biotechnology and she is planning to apply to Veterinary School where she can pursue a career in Wildlife Medicine. Oscar De Leon is currently a second-year student at Miami Dade College, Wolfson Campus. He is a member of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society and the Florida Engineering 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 concerning sustainable energy and fuels.
     
Unraveling the Microbial Diversity of Freshwater Ecosystems Under Environmental Pollution Unraveling the Secrets of Aging: the role of a chloride channel in lifespan Chlorophyll Analysis of Pseodophilothrips Ichini Effects on Brazilian
Elik Esquilin Sarah Fatal Dunnel Fennell
Elik Esquilin is majoring in Biotechnology at Miami Dade College. His passion for biology began with a childhood love for nature, fostered by exploring parks and observing wildlife. This fascination grew into my desire to protect the environment and become a conservationist. He has participated in several molecular biology research projects, particularly in the bacterial metabarcoding project studying pollution's impact on freshwater microbiomes. His goal is to pursue a master's degree and use advanced technology to support wildlife conservation and protect our planet.
engineering field.

A first-generation Haitian bachelor’s student in my senior year, aspiring to become an OB-GYN with the goal of owning my own practice. I gained valuable research experience working with Dr. Bianchi at the Miller School of Medicine, where I learned to work with microscopic and fluorescent worms, and the importance of neurodegenerative disease, enriching my passion for science and medicine.

 

 I am a recent graduate from Miami-Dade North Campus with a Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology. Currently, I’m interning at the USDA Invasive Plant Research Laboratory in Davie, FL, where I’m working on a research project to manage and mitigate the impact of invasive plant Brazilian peppertree with the use of insects as a biological control. Concurrently, I’m working with NOAA/AOML, researching the phylosymbiosis of coral in the Pacific Ocean to understanding marine ecosystems of corals and their health. I’m planning to continue my education by attending graduate school for 2025 spring semester, with the aim of furthering my expertise and honing my skills as a research scientist.
     
Utilizing Organic Solvents for Biofuel Production From Lemna minor Utilizing Organic Solvents for Biofuel Production from Influence Of Precipitation Variability On Soil Moisture And Organic Matter
Isabella Gonzalez Jennifer Gonzalez Silvia Gonzales
Isabella Gonzalez is currently studying Psychology at The Honors College at Miami Dade College. She aspires to become a doctor in the future. Dedicated to learning new skills, she is actively involved in research. Isabella enjoys helping her community at school and serves as the Communications Director for Phi Theta Kappa and Vice President of Mind-Body Psychology. She is excited to continue her research journey and deepen her knowledge in the field of science. Jennifer is a Cuban-born immigrant who has lived in the US for more than a decade. She attends the Eduardo Padron Campus of Miami Dade College and plans to transfer to FIU to finish her bachelor's degree in biology. She is currently seeking her AA in biology. Her goals are to apply for a master's degree in medical illustration to work as a qualified illustrator in the profession. She enjoys reading, writing, painting, and working out in addition to her academic work. Jennifer hopes her background in science will give her a better understanding of what should be expected in the Medical Illustration field.

Silvia Gonzales is a senior at Miami Dade College North Campus pursuing a Bachelor of Sciences with a concentration in Biotechnology. Currently, she works in a pharmaceutical contract testing lab where she has had the privilege to work with sophisticated machinery like HPLC and ICP-OES. She would like to use her knowledge and experience to enhance the quality of our everyday lives. After graduation, her goal is to pursue a career in environmental research. She is very passionate about wildlife conservation and has high hopes of finding more opportunities to be a part of research where she can make a positive change and protect our local flora and fauna. By protecting our planet, we can ensure that all its inhabitants can thrive in abundance.

 
     
Using Environmental DNA (eDNA) to Understand the Biological Diversity of Soil Microbiomes Scanning Electron Microscopy of Leptogium Cyanescens Lipid Extraction of Elodea densa for Biofuel Production
Tatiana Guerra Meghan Herrera Patrick Heydasch

Tatiana Guerra is a student at Miami Dade College and is almost in her last year to graduate with a Bachelor of Biotechnology. She is a member of the bio-innovators and has met some new opportunities for her future by joining the club. Her research interest is in agriculture biotechnology to help scientists understand the genetic makeup of organisms that could be useful in agriculture. One of her professional goals is to develop skills to help her find these interests and already have those skills by the time she starts working for her future dream job.

 

Meghan Herrera is a post-graduate student with a bachelor’s degree in Natural and Applied Sciences and a Business minor from Florida International University. She has over 3000 hours of clinical experience, in both private practice and the hospital setting. She is currently enrolled at American University of Antigua College of Medicine and begin my first semester as a medical student in January. 

 

 As a dedicated second-year Biology major at MDC Honors College, I am deeply passionate about medical research with a specific focus on interventional radiology. I have excelled academically and have been taking on leadership roles in crucial student organizations, such as Wolves in Training and the Pre-Health Club. My current research involves Bio-Lipid Extraction, where we explore innovative ways to extract plant lipids for potential applications in biofuels and beyond. Driven by a profound desire to contribute medical advancements, I am inspired by personal experiences with health crises in my family. My ambition is to continue my education in medical school, specializing in interventional radiology, to develop and refine minimally invasive image-guided procedures.
     
Molecular Barcoding Of New And Known Planthopper Species In The Genus Cedusa Examination of Human Proteins as Potential Novel Inhibitors of HIV-1 Reverse Transcriptase (RT) Assesing the effects of Amendments on Soil Moisture Retention
Enrique Infanzon Camari Jackson Daniel Jarrin
Enrique is originally from Cuba and has been living in the US for 2 years. He is a second-year student at Miami Dade College, North Campus. He is currently pursuing his AA degree in Biotechnology and will transfer to Jhons Hopkins University in the Fall 2024 semester to complete his bachelor’s degree in biology. His long-term aspirations include obtaining an MD/PhD in a biomedical field that prepares him to do research in cancer treatments and the causes of aging. He has been a member of PTK, Shark Pals, as well as a peer mentor and lab assistant at his home campus. Enrique has also participated as a judge of the SECME Olympiad, organizer at Children's Holiday at North Campus, and organizer at Miami Dade College Research Symposium. He is an active member of his community and has raised funds in the Running for Rescues 5K Marathon, helped in Miami Beach clean ups, and participated in a Hialeah Campus clean up. He is very proactive when it comes to new challenges and loves studying to prepare himself for the future. Camari Jackson is a dedicated biology student with a concentration in biopharmaceuticals at Miami-Dade College with a strong determination to become a dentist. Originally hailing from Miami, Fl. She has a wealth of experience in the medical field, having worked as a home health aide and med tech. Camari has obtained her CPR, med tech, phlebotomy, EKG, and home health aide licenses. She also has a certification in adobe illustrator. Her passion for healthcare and helping others drives her academic pursuits and her ultimate goal of becoming a top-notch Dentist. With her combination of academic knowledge and hands-on experience, Camari is well-equipped to excel in her chosen field. A second-year student at Miami Dade College on West Campus pursuing an associate of arts degree. When Daniel was little, he lived in Ecuador until he decided to move with his family and study in the United States 3 years ago. In his free time, he likes to exercise and make music. This is his first-time doing STEM research and he is very excited to participate and continue gaining experiences for his future. His plan is to transfer to the University of Florida and earn a degree in electrical engineering.
     
{missing} A Screen To Identify Genetic Factors Involved In Fungal-Fungal Interactions  
 
David Jean Carline Jean Baptiste  
David is currently pursuing his Bachelor of Science in Biopharmaceutical. He is an individual that loves to help others. He successfully completed more than two thousand volunteering hours for one of his school’s non-profit organizations: Single Stop. With the help of the organizational skills developed through his services and his passion for chemistry, he plans to further his education in the pharmacy field. With primary interest the knowledge to physicalize the concept that he learned; he intends to pursue post graduate research education, granting him the opportunity help toward development of new ways maximizing the expected results for prescribed drugs. Carline Jean Baptiste is currently a medical technologist with more than 10 years of experience in Blood Bank and a student at Miami Dade College for the bachelor’s program on biotechnology. For the Summer, she will do her undergraduate research at the University of Florida at Davie on plant pathology. The research project will consist of the factors that contribute to diseases in palms. She would like to work in a research laboratory to help her better understand some of the new gene therapy that is used like CAR-T cell therapy, autologous or allogenic transplants that help to cure some diseases like multiple myeloma, sickle cell, HIV, etc. She leads the stem cell checklist for bone marrow patients. Even the Internship research will be different because she will be dealing with plant pathology while her daily job duties are on human pathology. Her interest is to participate in research, so she can be part of the innovation of the advanced technology and techniques used to find a breakthrough. She plans to obtain her master’s in biotechnology.   
Biological & Life Sciences (I - W)
Standardizing crude DNA Yields from Halobacterium salinarum Documenting Vocal Responses to Adult Song in Wild-caught Juvenile Sparrows Use of qPCR to Detect Genetic Modifications in Various Food Products
Liz Jorge Liz Linares Anamichelle Madrid

I am a dedicated and accomplished student at Miami Dade Honors, pursuing a biology degree. Notable achievements and a clear vision for my future in the medical field mark my academic journey. Continuing my pursuit of knowledge, I have maintained a solid academic record in college with a 3.8 GPA, demonstrating my dedication and capability in my studies. My research interests lie in the field of cyanobacteria, where I am eager to explore and contribute to the scientific community. My fascination with cyanobacteria stems from their unique role in the environment and their potential applications in biotechnology and medicine. Looking ahead, I have set my goal of becoming a doctor. This future goal drives me to excel in my studies and research, preparing me for the rigorous path of medical school and a healthcare career. My academic journey is characterized by outstanding achievements, dedication to research, and a clear vision for my future, making me a standout student in biology.

 

 Liz Linares was born in Cuba and immigrated to the United States when she was 11 years old. She is currently pursuing an associate degree in biology at Miami Dade Honors College on the North Campus. Her plan is to transfer to the University of Miami or the University of Florida to complete her bachelor’s degree in biology. Her aspiration is to enter medical school and pursue a medical career, which has been her dream from a very early age. Liz is currently the vice-president of Global Medical Brigades and is working on a project to provide support to children affected by cancer at Holtz Children's Hospital. In her free time, Liz enjoys working out, reading, and spending time with her family and friends.

Anamichelle Madrid is a first generation Honduran American in her family and the first to be receiving a college degree as well. Madrid is currently completing her second major with Miami Dade College in Biology. Madrid has previously graduated with an associate in science for Crime Scene Investigation specializing in Forensic Science. She is currently the current Vice President of Miami Dade College's FSCSI club, as well as a member of the Biology National Honor Society. Madrid has also participated in high school tours for Miami Dade College North Campus, a speaker for the Response and Recovery Synopsis, attended workshops outside of school for Forensics and helped represent her club in STEAM Expo. Her current plan is to continue to pursue her bachelor's degree in Biochemistry at Florida International University, with the goal to become a Lab Technician specializing in DNA analysis.
     
Computational Analysis of Human Protein Interactions with HIV Reverse Transcriptase 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
Ruth Marius Meijia Lin Ruth Marius
Ruth Marius is a first-generation Haitian American college student. I participated in the Alternative Breaks Program, partnering with a non-profit called MEDICI, addressing issues like homelessness, poverty, hunger, and education. I helped feed the homeless and tutor students in Georgia. Encouraged by this experience, I joined another Alternative Breaks Program in New York. On campus, I actively engaged in student organizations such as the STEM Club, Women of Tomorrow Organization, and Haitian IBO Club. My ultimate goal is to pursue an MS in Public Population Health research and a Ph.D. in Epidemiology at Boston University. I aim to focus on social and health research, analyzing and resolving major human health crises. 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 Understanding The Information Content of Animal Vocalizations: A Comparison of Methods to Measure Vocal Performance in Bird Song
Shay Moen Stacy-Ann Morose Analuz Nieves
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.

Analuz Nieves is a student at the Honors College in Miami Dade College, her major is Biotechnology. She is the Secretary of the student government association. In the student government association, she ensures that the student body’s concerns and needs are resolved. As a first generation Cuban American in college, she became a TRiO student. Analuz is also a STEM and Honors ambassador. She is also in the Phi Theta Kappa Honors society as the Director in Fellowship. Analuz is also a part of the student programming board. Through the student programming board, she creates activities for the students to promote student engagement on campus. Analuz was also nominated to be a part of the grades appeal committee. Analuz is a student who is very involved and passionate about her college. In terms of career goals, Analuz would like to work in a laboratory doing research on DNA. One of her favorite quotes is “You lose more by not trying than by trying.”
     
Focusing on Microbes in Polluted and Clean Soil in South Florida Assessing Nitrogen Concentration and the Impact of Reclaimed Water on Turfgrass Comparison of DNA extraction methods in recalcitrant tropical crop species
Juliet Orozco Juan Porras Skarlet Quiroz
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.

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.
     
Broccoli Sprouts and Your Health Lipid Extraction of Lemna Minor for Biofuel Production Biofuel Lipid Extraction of Egeria densa (Elodea)
Brenden Reyes Britney Reyes Sarahi Rodriguez
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.

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.
     
Exploring the Link Between TCF7L2 Gene Variants and Schizophrenia Topoisomerase-1 Inhibits HIV Reverse Transcriptase Pharmacogenomics in Miami Dade County: Prevalence of Genetic Variations in Clinically Relevant SNPs in CYP2C19
Ana Salvador Perez Kerene Severe Reanna Thomas
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. 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.
     
Genetic Mechanism of Melatonin Biosynthesis and Physiological Effects in Plants Allele Mining for the Hull-Less Candidate Gene in Pumpkin Seed Pinus elliottii Juvenile Transplant for Reforestation: Phase II
Marlon Vargas Castillo Yennifer Velazquez Rodriguez Tekiyah Wilson
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. 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.

Comments