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STEM Interdisciplinary Undergraduate Research Symposium 2024: Biological & Life Sciences

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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.
     
Environmental assessment of phosphorus pollution in Wagner Creek and Little River Canal 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 Antioxidant Properties Of Bidens alba Plant Using Different Assays Environmental assessment of nitrate pollution in Wagner Creek and Little River Canal
Ruth Marius Bruna Mompoint Marielca Mondesir
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. Bruna Mompoint is a bachelor’s student in Biological Sciences with a concentration in Biopharmaceutical Sciences at North Campus. She has consistently made the Dean’s List every semester at MDC, maintaining a GPA of 3.94. While she has always aspired to pursue a career in medicine, she recently discovered a passion for research. She has been fortunate to engage in research focused on studying the antioxidant properties of plants using various chemical assays at the University of St. Thomas. In the future, she aims to conduct research on developing treatments related to obesity, metabolic disorders, or other conditions related to fat metabolism. As obesity and related metabolic disorders are growing global health concerns, she hopes to work towards solutions that could lead to healthier populations and reduced strain on healthcare systems.

Marielca Mondesir was born and raised in Haiti, and she has been living in the United States of America for the past 7 years. She is currently enrolled at Miami Dade College, majoring in biology. Marielca has a strong passion for education. She finds it incredibly empowering and an excellent method to invest in herself. She aspires to become a pharmacist and aims to utilize herbal remedies with current technology to improve medicine for curing deadly illnesses. Marielca believes in setting goals and pushing herself toward achieving them, no matter how difficult they appear. Outside of school, Marielca enjoys spending her free time at the gym. She also enjoys cooking for her family. She believes that these activities help her stay healthy and boost her mental health more than anything else.
     
Study of Optimal Percent Yield of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii for Biofuel Production Optimal Extraction of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii The Effect of Leaf Litter on the Establishment of the Native Orchids Trichocentrum undulatum
Ashley Naval Shana Nichols Natalia Noda
A first-year Miami Dade Honors College student at the Wolfson campus. She is pursuing a Psychology degree on a pre-med track and wants to become a Sports Medicine Physician. While working towards her A.A. she has become vice-president of Wolfson’s Pre-Health Club, she hopes to provide any help towards those aspiring to work in the healthcare field. Currently she is a part of “Biofuel Research by Means of Lipid Extraction”, however she would love to research the prevention, detection, and treatment of cancer. Her future goals are to improve the healthcare system through thorough patient care, compassion, and innovation. Shana Nichols, Esq. is a second-career student who left her career as an attorney to pursue her first passion, medicine. She is completing her prerequisites for medical school while majoring in Biology at Miami-Dade College. She has maintained a 4.0 GPA while attending MDC and is currently participating in biofuel research focusing on the single-celled organism, Chlamydomonas alongside her mentor. She is interested in various types of research including zombie parasites, stem cell utilization, and communication through quantum mechanics. She enjoys reading any book she can get her hands on and spending time with her fiancé and Siberian Husky, Simba.  

Natalia is a dedicated and hardworking student currently enrolled at Miami Dade Honors College, at the Kendall Campus. She is pursuing a major in Biology with a focus on Health, which is driven by her aspiration of becoming a future Physician Assistant specializing in Dermatology. As the newly appointed treasurer of SheThePeople, a club that promotes women's empowerment and leadership, she will play an important role in the organization of the club’s
events and initiatives. In addition to her involvement on campus, she is pursuing her black belt in Taekwondo, which demonstrates her determination and resilience. She plans on attending University of Florida or Emory University to attain her bachelor's degree in Biology.

 
     
Understanding Florida’s Native Clams to Enhance Restoration Outcomes Assessing Water Quality in South Florida Coastal Waters Evaluating the effects of Bidens alba plant extracts for anticancer activity
Michelle Nunez Dillon Ork Karla Perez
A first-year student at Miami Dade College Honors College, currently majoring in Biology, also serves as the Director of Leadership and Membership of Phi Theta Kappa and Vice President of the Fitness and Wellness Club. Her passion for the sciences and commitment to academic excellence continue to drive her towards her goals. With an expected graduation year of 2025, Michelle aspires to transfer to the University of Florida to complete a Bachelor’s of Science in Biology, which she will then use to attend dental school and create a positive impact in the field of dentistry using her hands on experience. Michelle’s passion for a career in the medical field long stems since she was young, nurtured by her fascination with biology and a desire to contribute meaningfully to the healthcare community.

A first-year student at Miami Dade College pursuing an AS in Clinical Lab Science. He plans on continuing his education, staying at MDC for the BAS in Clinical Lab Science, and later pursuing a Masters in Pathology Laboratory Science or Molecular Pathology. He aspires to be a Medical Lab Technologist. His hobbies include playing volleyball, working out, listening to music, and socializing with others. He is new to research and is excited to take on new challenges.

 

Karla Perez is a second-year student at Miami Dade College. She is pursuing an Associates of Arts in Biology and plans to achieve a Bachelor of Science in order to become an optometrist. She is a recipient of the Annual MDC Academic Excellence Award and achieved second place at the Excellence Across the Curriculum Symposium for her literature review on climate policies in the U.S. Additionally, she is the Director of College Project for the Phi Theta Kappa Honors Society and works as a writing tutor for Learning Resources at MDC, North Campus. Karla seeks to create a nonprofit organization that provides aspiring optometrists with countless research, shadowing, and formation opportunities while offering accessible eye care to the most vulnerable members of the community.
     
Utilization of A.I. to Discover Potential Inhibitors of HIV Reverse Transcriptase Using eDNA to Assess the Soil Microbial Diversity in High-grazed Pastures Use Of Computational Biology To Analyze Interactions Between Human Proteins
Nephtalie Plancher Ahuva Schneck Kerene Severe
Nephtalie Plancher is currently a student at School for Advanced Studies, North Campus. She is pursuing Computer Science, while pursuing the pre-med track. She is currently working with Dr. Madison on an HIV research project at MDC Homestead Campus. On campus, she is Co-President of the math and coding club, secretary of the medical club, and Senior Editor of Literary Magazine. She volunteers at Joe DiMaggio Children’s hospital. She aspires to complete her bachelor’s in computer science. She aspires to become an M.D./Ph.D. graduate.

Ahuva Schneck has a passion for molecular biology and genetic engineering that has led her to enter undergraduate biotechnology studies. She is committed to continuous growth and is constantly seeking new experiences. Throughout her academic journey, she has been involved in diverse research initiatives, where she honed her expertise in DNA manipulation, protein analysis, and molecular biology protocols. Through participation in cutting-edge research projects, she plans to develop her proficiency in advanced biotechnological techniques. As a scientist, she aims to make significant contributions to global health and environmental sustainability, particularly in the areas of personalized medicine and sustainable agriculture.

Kerene Severe is a current student at Miami Dade College, where she is pursuing her bachelor’s degree in biotechnology. While at Miami Dade College, she participated in undergraduate research alongside Dr. Madison on HIV research, where she analyzed interactions between HIV RT and proteins present in the human body. Kerene has also had the opportunity to volunteer with elementary and middle school students, teaching them about science and conducting experiments with them. After graduating, Kerene wants to pursue a career in veterinary medicine, aiming to cure diseases found in animals to improve their well-being.
     
Identification of Potential Inhibitors of HIV Reverse Transcriptase (RT) Using A. I. Cultivating Oscillatoria for Cyanotoxin Studies The Impact of Solvent Use with Elodea, Duckweed, and Chlamydomonas
Monique Sterling Samantha Tang Thristian Thomas
Monique Sterling is pursuing an associate’s degree in chemistry at MDC. Her goal is to get her bachelor’s in forensic science and Neuroscience. Her long-term goal would be to become a Forensic Toxicologist or a Neuropsychologist.

Samantha Tang is a first-year student at the Honors College at the Padron Campus, studying Zoology with a deep interest in environmental sciences and cardiology. Enthusiastic and engaged in everything she does, she prioritizes her academic pursuits. Samantha is the new treasurer for the Biological Honors Society, TriBeta (Beta Beta Beta), where she actively encourages others to join and participate in the society's activities while fulfilling her role on the e-board.
Her current research focuses on finding the optimal conditions for the growth of cyanobacteria, such as Euglena and Oscillatoria, aiming to boost our understanding of microbial life and its environmental relevance. Additionally, her studies include learning about DNA, microbes, and other protozoa, further fueling her passion for scientific discovery. Her short-term goal is to transfer to a university after completing her associate degree to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Zoology, where she aims to expand her expertise in the biological field.

 

Thristian Thomas was Born in New York and raised in Florida, I have embraced the role of being the oldest of three siblings, striving to set an example for them to pursue their dreams. Currently a senior in college, my passion for science runs deep. Majoring in Biopharmaceutical Sciences,
I am captivated by the fusion of biology and medicine, with a particular interest in anesthesia. Looking ahead, my goal is to conduct research in anesthesia to enhance its affordability and safety, merging my passion for science with a commitment to advancing patient care and medical research.
     
An Analysis of the Invasive Weed, Cogongrass, and Potential Biological Control Agents Investigating Grafting Effectiveness in Multiple Mango Varieties  
 
Jorge Troche-Martinez Juliet V’Miranda  
A recent recipient of an AA in Biology from MDC, Jorge is continuing his academic career to become a Ph. D. in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology and pursue a research career. He is fascinated by life and the pressures across geologic time that force species to adapt. Thanks to the opportunities given by Dr. Dahis Manzanares of MDC, he has gained a great appreciation and respect for scientific research, leading him to participate in research with the USDA-ARS-IPRL. He hopes to work with them again in the future.

She has a dream to become a botanist. She is a senior at Miami Dade College pursuing an AA degree in biology with the intention of transferring to the University of Florida to pursue a PhD in botany. She has a deep passion for plants and the ecosystem. She got the chance to participate in research studies like Hydroponic Microgreens Cultivation, the Growth of Tokyo Bekanna and Lettuce with M. Nia Madison, Ph.D. in the homestead campus and Synthesis of Novel Cannabinoids with James J. Ley, Ph.D. also in the homestead campus. She has enhanced her academic skills and acquired practical insights into the techniques used in botany.  

 

 

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