Student Spotlights

Student Success

The College of Science highlights extraordinary students and alums who conduct innovative research and make remarkable achievements.

Jericho McLeod, Computational and Data Sciences

This week's #studentspotlight is on Jericho McLeod, Department of Computational and Data Sciences doctoral candidate at George Mason University , who attended the International Pandemic Sciences Conference at Oxford University in July, presenting his research on the spread of COVID-19 through extended family connections. The conference, which hosted some of the top minds in the field, selected McLeod’s work as the “best poster presentation” in the Epidemiology, Data and Analytics category.

Laura Akesson, Physics and Astronomy

Today's #studentspotlight is on Department of Physics and Astronomy graduate student, Laura Akesson, has been awarded the C ommonwealth of Virginia Engineering and Science (COVES) Fellowship, where she delves into Virginia’s energy policy and work at the intersection of science and legislation. Her research focuses on assessing current energy strategies, identifying opportunities for renewable resources, and proposing policy recommendations that support sustainable and equitable energy solutions. This fellowship allows Akesson to bring her scientific expertise to the forefront of critical energy discussions, driving Virginia toward a sustainable future.

Victoria Gonzales, Computational and Data Sciences

This week's #StudentSpotlight is on Victoria Gonzales, an undergraduate researcher with a double major in the Department of Computational and Data Sciences and Statistics, with a concentration in Biology. Victoria has been involved in impactful research since October 2021 and has contributed to projects such as local gathering data analysis, YouTube data analysis, and interviewing government agencies that provide disability services. Her work reflects strong community-oriented values and excellence in both technical and qualitative research. These projects have led to several co-authored papers currently under submission to international conferences.

Victoria’s favorite part of research is working in diverse teams, which she finds enriching. She has modeled the spread of COVID-19 using phylogenetic techniques and analyzed YouTube data to understand networks of collaboration and their impact on success. Supported by her mentors, Mang Lee and Hamdi Kavak, Victoria has thrived in Mason’s inclusive and dynamic culture. Her journey showcases the potential of undergraduate research to drive scientific progress and community impact.

Trent Grasso, Environment Science and Policy

Today's #studentspotlight is on Department of Environmental Science and Policy student Trent Grasso, who received an OSCAR (Office of Student Creative Activities and Research) Student Excellence Award in April recognizing outstanding undergraduate students who participate in research and creative activities.

Grasso’s interests have long focused on the wellbeing and conservation of elephants. 🐘 When accepted to George Mason University, Grasso had already cultivated and launched a public database that hosted a collection of more than 250 articles on elephants and related species spanning from the 1500s to today. At George Mason, he began working with Department of Biology assistant professor Kathleen Hunt and participated in the Biology Undergraduate Research Semester to extract hormones from elephant tail hair from the Maryland Zoo and the Smithsonian National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute (SNZCBI). He and Hunt’s research resulted in a determination of the growth rate of tail hair in both Asian and African elephants and successfully run immunoassays, a type of biochemical test, for cortisol and progesterone.

Natasha Latouf, Physics and Astronomy

Today's #studentspotlight is on Natasha Latouf, a distinguished PhD candidate in the Department of Physics and Astronomy. Born in Millersburg, Ohio, Natasha is a Syrian-American astrophysicist and mentorship advocate who has recently been named to the Arab America Foundation's 30 Under 30 Class of 2024. Natasha has published four papers in esteemed journals, such as the Astronomical Journal. Her project, BARBIE: Bayesian Analysis for Remote Biosignature Identification of exoEarths, boldly challenges the traditional expectations for women in STEM.

Beyond academia, Natasha founded Spectrum, an organization promoting equitable excellence in physics and astronomy. She is dedicated to empowering Arabs and Arab Americans in astrophysics and fostering an inclusive environment for underrepresented groups in STEM.

Rocío Prisby, School of Systems Biology

Today, our #studentspotlight is on Rocío Prisby, a School of Systems Biology doctoral student at George Mason University. Originally from Argentina, Rocío led a study analyzing proteins in wheat starch-based pastes used in bookbinding. This study aims to create a database that historians can use to understand the evolution of adhesives, enhancing conservation practices for ancient manuscripts.

Rocío's work, published in the American Chemical Society, involved extracting wheat proteins from historic book samples. Her analysis revealed a shift from wheat-based to starch-based glues, offering insights into the changing composition of adhesives over time. Collaborating with George Mason researchers like Alessandra Luchini and Lance Liotta and the Smithsonian, Rocío's findings contribute to improved conservation techniques.

Her journey began at Northern Virginia Community College and continued at George Mason, where she participated in the College of Science’s Aspiring Scientists Summer Internship Program (ASSIP). Under the mentorship of Alessandra Luchini, Rocío transitioned from studying honey proteins to research in proteomics.

Jimin Jeon, Computational and Data Sciences

Meet Jimin Jeon, Mason Korea’s first graduate in Computational and Data Sciences. Initially inclined towards global affairs, Jeon switched to computational and data sciences after her freshman year, aligning with her long-standing interest in big data. Upon her arrival George Mason University's Fairfax campus, she worked as a teaching assistant in the Department of computational and data science, engaged in an on-campus data cleaning project. She participated in a language exchange program to enhance her English skills. Jeon is now a proud graduate, reflecting on her journey and encouraging others to embrace the challenges of studying abroad.

Emily Poindexter, Environmental Science and Policy

Meet this week's #StudentSpotlight, Emily Poindexter, an Environmental science and Policy Master’s student George Mason University, who has made significant contributions in the conservation of endangered plant species.

Emily's research focuses on the Ozark Milkvetch, a small, perennial plant native to the south-central United States and parts of Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia. Despite its widespread distribution in the south-central region, Ozark Milkvetch faces critical endangerment in Virginia, where it thrives only on shale barrens. Under the mentorship of Andrea Weeks, an expert in plant systematics and evolutionary biology, Emily uses genetics methods to compare DNA sequence data from different varieties of Ozark Milkvetch. Her study aims to unravel the species' taxonomy, diversity, and evolutionary history, shedding light on its conservation status and guiding future conservation efforts.

Beyond her academics, Emily's passion for botany and conservation led her to work at the National Herbarium at the National Museum of Natural History. Her commitment to understanding and preserving biodiversity is evident in her meticulous fieldwork, where she seeks out Ozark Milkvetch populations in real-time, utilizing citizen science databases and historical data to track changes in their distribution.

Rania Hanna, Neuroscience

Rania Hanna, a Neuroscience PhD student at George Mason University, is today's #StudentSpotlight. Hanna recently achieved a remarkable milestone outside academia with the publication of her debut novel, “The Jinn Daughter.”

Hanna's novel, praised as a "haunting homage to Middle Eastern folklore," beautifully intertwines her Syrian American heritage with contemporary storytelling. Her journey as an author began in childhood, inspired by the oral tales shared by her father and her love for fantasy novels.

Despite the demands of her rigorous academic pursuit in neuroscience, studying the effects of taxanes on neuropathic pain in cancer models, Hanna finds solace and inspiration in writing.

Madeleine Becker, School of Systems Biology

This week's #StudentSpotlight features Madeleine Becker, a School of Systems Biology PhD student at George Mason University. Recently honored with the Ecological, Evolutionary, and Conservation Genomics Research Award, Madeleine's research focuses on the California Channel Island deer mouse.

Fascinated by genetics since her undergraduate days, Madeleine explores the genetic complexity of isolated Peromyscus populations across the Channel Islands. Under the guidance of mentors like Jesús Maldonado, her work delves into evolutionary history, founder effects, and conservation implications using cutting-edge museomics tools.

Madeleine's multidisciplinary approach, including the examination of the genetic legacy of invasive rat species on Anacapa Island, promises to influence conservation strategies globally and for the Channel Islands.

Lauren Distad, Biology

This week’s #studentspotlight is on Lauren Distad, a junior midfielder on the Women's Lacrosse team at George Mason University, she is not only a standout athlete but also a dedicated scholar and community leader. She recently received the prestigious 2024 Aimee Willard Commemorative Award, recognizing her excellence in sports.

On the lacrosse field, Lauren has proven herself to be an invaluable asset, particularly as the team's draw specialist. Her skill and determination have propelled the team to success, with her tally of 87 draw controls ranking among the top three in the A-10 conference.
Off the field, Lauren excels academically as a biology major, consistently earning recognition as a George Mason Athletics Provost Scholar and making the Dean's List every semester. Her passion for medicine is evident in her volunteer work at the Lloyd Moss Free Clinic and Regions Hospital in Minnesota, where she assists in the birth center and breast health care center.

In addition to her academic pursuits and athletic achievements, Lauren is deeply committed to serving her community. As a member of various organizations on campus, including the Student Athletics Advisory Committee and the One Love club, she works tirelessly to raise awareness about important issues like relationship violence.

Spotlights by Department

Valentina Chirico

Meet Valentina Chirico a BAM student studying Geology in the Atmospheric, Oceanic, and Earth Science (AOES) department. She chose AOES because their philosophy and approach to learning stood out to her. The professors and her classmates also cultivated a safe space that enriched her academic experience.

She chose the geology concentration because the classes span over several disciplines within geology, giving her exposure to a broader array of sub-disciplines. This encouraged her to pursue an accelerated master's, since it is a fantastic opportunity for her to slowly begin working on graduate-level classes as well as thinking about her Master's research.

“The program has enabled me to begin my career in research early on, and I've been able to make connections with important professionals.”, says Valentina

During the Fall 2022 semester, Valentina got the opportunity to travel to Lawrence, Kansas, with her graduate advisor, Dr. Geoff Gilleaudeau , where they worked with the Kansas Geological Survey to analyze a core from the Permian Basin.

After graduation, she hopes to work for a few years, possibly with the USGS or a state geological survey, to practice her research skills and better understand where her passion within Earth sciences truly lie. She also plans to pursue a PhD and would love to eventually become a professor to spread the good word of geology!

Madison Mateo

Meet Madison Mateo, an Atmospheric, Oceanic and Earth Sciences undergrad with a burning passion for geology and paleontology. Starting her journey as a volunteer at geological survey sites in North Dakota, she is now a regular at M-NCPPC Dinosaur Park, known for its rich and diverse fossils. Madison's love for dinosaurs and fossils shines brightly as she educates visitors and assists in crucial site excavations. Over the summer, Madison made a groundbreaking discovery, unearthing a 3-foot-long tibia of an Acrocanthosaurus, an Early Cretaceous predator. This significant find has reshaped our understanding of dinosaurs in North America. Madison’s work has opened doors to prestigious opportunities, including an invitation to a paleontological resource inventory in Yellowstone. Learn more about the discovery.

Brian Smith

Meet Brian Smith, an undergraduate student pursuing a degree in Atmospheric Sciences. He chose AOES due to the various opportunities available to pursue internships and conduct research while in the program, which are immensely beneficial to students looking to work in the field of Atmospheric Science.

"One of the things that stood out to me about the department was its diverse faculty and its wide range of expertise in atmospheric science." The department's program boasts smaller class sizes, providing students with more individualized instruction, hands-on learning, and a greater sense of camaraderie with their peers and department faculty. During my time in the program, I have formed a close friend group and have made incredible connections with professors and others in the AOES department."

Brian also serves as the president of Weather Club at Mason, which he helped reestablish alongside three other Atmospheric Science students in 2022. He encourages fellow weather enthusiasts to attend the club's weekly "Weather and Coffee" hangouts on Mondays at 4 p.m.!

Kai Huang

Kai Huang, a Doctoral Student in Climate Dynamics, recently won First Place in a Student Poster Presentation at the 11th Symposium on the Madden-Julian Oscillation and Sub-Seasonal Monsoon Variability.

Kai's presentation was on “Captured QBO-MJO Connection in the CESM2 Subseasonal Prediction System with a Stratospheric Nudging.” He has done #MasonNation very proud!

Louise Singer

Congratulations to senior Biology major, Louise Singer for being one of the three OSCAR students to be awarded the Summer 2021 Top Presentation. Singer used her OSCAR funding to examine snails from two different lakes in Fairfax, VA. Singer said that it was meaningful to design and execute her own research project. Watch her video presentation “Analyzing the Microbiome of Avian Schistosomiasis Vector Gyraulus Parvus.”

Spogmai Ahmadzai

Meet Admadzai, an outstanding example of triumph through adversity! From Kabul, Afghanistan, to George Mason University, she tackled challenges with grace and determination. Mason's Early Identification Program guided her journey, offering essential resources and mentorship. As she pursues her Biology major, Admadzai reminds us that education has no boundaries. Let's applaud her courage and resilience, celebrating her embodiment of the pursuit of knowledge against all odds!

Volunteers Around the World- Dental, Student Spotlight

Volunteers Around the World-Dental (VAWD)

Mason’s chapter of Volunteers Around the World-Dental (VAWD), a student-led organization that gives volunteers an opportunity to shadow dental professionals abroad. This past summer, a team of eight Mason students helped provide dental services in Cusco, Peru and found that the impact they made in the communities left an everlasting impact amongst themselves. The students helped set up a free dental clinic in a local elementary school to aid the rural community of Ccoyllorpuquio, near the city of Cusco. Biology student Julia Hakeem stated that “We helped them with the health of their teeth and therefore the health of themselves...”. Congratulations to this student organization for going above and beyond to help out communities in need of health services. Read the full story.

Maggie Walker

Did you know road salt gets rid of ice, snow…and ecosystems? Meet Maggie Walker, a Mason Biology, Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation, and Honors College student studying the negative effects of road salt on our environment. Road salt has been touted as a lifesaver when it comes to combatting icy roads. Yet using this snow-melting mineral has a dark side once it enters waterways. Read more here.

Afraz Shirazi

The spotlight is on Afraz Shirazi today! Afraz is an Advanced Biomedical Sciences (GeorgeSquared) student who served as co-class president for this year’s cohort. He found his way to the GeorgeSquared (G2) program after being denied by all the dental schools he applied to after undergrad, despite having a competitive DAT score and experience shadowing in a dental office. While he was initially disappointed, he was not ready to give up. He researched different post-bac programs and decided to apply to GeorgeSquared because he was intrigued by the curriculum and impressed by the provided resources.

As he wraps up the program, Afraz says “it was the best decision I made for my future.” GeorgeSquared has helped him develop his vital skills, build his academic confidence, and has taught him new study skills that will help in the future.

For anyone considering the GeorgeSquared program, “take the leap and apply!” Afraz goes on to say, “despite the dense material and heavy coursework, the support and dedication from the faculty are unparalleled.”

After finishing the program, Afraz plans to continue his education at Georgetown University to obtain his Master’s degree. He plans on applying to dental school this upcoming cycle while continuing to work in a dental office to build his clinical skills and knowledge.

Finally, Afraz offers a special shoutout to the faculty and staff who supported him during his time at G2, including Dr. Hahn, Dr. Couch, and Ms. Wever.

Anyah Skipwith

This week, the spotlight is on Anyah Skipwith. Anyah just completed the GeorgeSquared (G2) program and earned a certificate in Advanced Biomedical Sciences. She chose the G2 program after hearing positive remarks about the program from a close friend who had recently graduated. The G2 program not only helped Anyah discover what study techniques worked best for her, but it also boosted her confidence. After underperforming in undergrad, she was filled with self-doubt. But after changing her mindset and finding what works best for her, she started to see her hard work pay off in the program. Anyah is proud of her progress throughout the program and is now a better and more confident student. This newfound confidence leads her to start the Georgetown Physiology summer master's program. By the end of August, she will have her Master’s degree.

Fun fact: Anyah is incredibly passionate about reproductive health! She founded @thehappycatinc , an LLC geared to combat the shame and stigma of female genitalia through education.

Anyah also offers a special thank you to all of the GeorgeSquared faculty for helping her throughout the process and to her peers for their support.

Jonathan A. Teinor

This week's #StudentSpotlight shines on Jonathan A. Teinor, an aspiring medical student currently enrolled in the GeorgeSquared Advanced Biomedical Sciences joint program at George Mason University and Georgetown University Medical Center. As a nontraditional student preparing for medical school, Jonathan sought a program that would lay a solid foundation for his future career. The GeorgeSquared program's rigorous curriculum, closely aligned with the first year of medical school, immediately appealed to him.

Jonathan offers valuable advice to aspiring students, urging them to follow a similar path of persistence and seizing opportunities, especially through active engagement with professors and exploration of research interests. He expresses gratitude to Dr. Robin Couch for his effective teaching methods in biochemistry.

Looking ahead, Jonathan's post-graduation plans involve applying to medical schools, confident in the preparation he's received through the program. With his strong foundation and determination, Jonathan is poised for success in his medical career.

Melissa Miliam

Meet Melissa Miliam, GeorgeSquared alumna. She recently completed the GeorgeSquared Advanced Biomedical Sciences Program in May 2022 and is set to complete her Master’s in Physiology Georgetown University. Why did she choose the G2 program? “It’s the perfect program for students who want to pursue careers in health,” stated Miliam, “and it’s a learning environment established on compassion and support.” Prior to starting the program, she struggled with feelings of doubt and imposter syndrome. After completing the program, she has become an entirely new person. Not only did she learn the study skills needed for medical school, but she became a more confident student.

To any student considering applying to the program, “it could be the best decision they make for themselves,” Miliam says, “The program will give them the confidence they need to succeed in their future endeavors and the skills necessary to do so as well.”

Kaitlyn Kutz

Meet Kaitlyn Kutz, this week's #StudentSpotlight. Kaitlyn is not just your average chemistry enthusiast; she is a vibrant member of the Women's Rowing team and a fantastic chemistry tutor. She loves how chemistry helps her understand the world around her and enjoys the logical and challenging problems she gets to crack. Dr. Ward’sOrganic Chemistry 2 is her favorite class so far, where each mechanism is a new puzzle to solve and a new opportunity to learn.

As a tutor, Kaitlyn finds joy and satisfaction in guiding other students through difficulties in the subject. Beyond the chemistry lab, she also found a passion for the water with Mason's Women's Rowing team. She loves the discipline and motivation it brings to her life, complementing her academic goals.

Kaitlyn is not stopping here; she dreams of becoming an organic chemist. She is the perfect example of hard work, teamwork, and supporting the community at Mason. Her story shows the university's lively atmosphere, where students like her not only survive but thrive and inspire others.

Quintin Carroll

Today's #studentspotlight is on Quintin Carroll, a junior biochemistry student whose academic ambitions extend beyond the classroom. Quintin began his interest in biochemistry, working closely with a pharmacist. Learning the mechanisms by which pharmaceuticals interacted with the human body intrigued him enough to continue his pursuits in drug discovery.

George Mason gave Quintin the opportunity to conduct research with faculty members, where he can further understand pharmaceutical mechanisms to develop effective antibiotics for tuberculosis. Outside of school, Quintin enjoys watching movies and playing competitive games with friends. Quintin aspires to become a leader in science to inspire other minoritized students to pursue their goals in the sciences and influence scientific policy for a more equitable world.

Virginia Lopez

This week's #StudentSpotlight is on Virginia Lopez, a graduate student in Mason’s Chemistry Program. Motivated by her desire to understand the molecular basis of biomedical issues like Alzheimer's, Virginia chose a path in chemistry and sees this as a way to gain insights into larger societal challenges.

Virginia was drawn to Mason Science for its collaborative research opportunities, and under Dr. Lee Solomon's mentorship, she has delved into electrochemistry, collaborating across disciplines and utilizing a fellowship for the Quantum Science Center.

Post-graduation, Virginia plans to pursue a Ph.D. in Biochemistry, aiming for a future in the industry. Her advice to aspiring students is to remain persistent and seek out opportunities, especially by engaging with professors and exploring research areas of interest. Virginia's journey exemplifies the spirit of Mason Science, a dynamic community where students like her thrive, fueled by curiosity and determination

Carissa Hunter

Carissa Hunter, a Ph.D. Student studying Chemistry and Biochemistry at the #MasonScience, has volunteered with the Committee of Minority Affairs for a year. Composed of chemists from local universities, Hunter joined the American Chemical Society to become more involved and share important skills she learned while working with the Minority Affairs Committee. Hunter said, “I am really excited to see how far the Minority Affairs committee can grow…” Read more about Hunter’s story here.

Watch a glimpse of Hunter's graduate school journey.

Brianna Tilghman

Meet Brianna Tilghman, head STAR (Student Teachers and Research Assistants) for the Department of Computational and Data Sciences (CDS). Brianna fell in love with the CDS department when she took CDS 130 with Dr. Ralph Romanelli. She was engaged with the coursework and was excited to further her knowledge of computation and data sciences. While she was taking CDS 130, the STARS in her class were incredibly helpful. They encouraged her to apply to the STARs program and the rest was history. For Brianna, the best part about being a STAR is helping and supporting students, and seeing how excited they get when they finally start to understand a difficult problem.

Brianna would like to shout out Natalie Lapidot-Croitoru! A hardworking, funny, and caring woman who deserves appreciation! She also offers a shoutout to all of the CDS faculty!

Fariha Askar

Meet Fariha Askar, a Computational and Data Science student who helped create NECX, a multi-platform service for policing, uniting victims, officers, and stakeholders on a centralized platform. NECX helps streamline workflows, keep victims informed, and foster a safer community with innovative software solutions.

The idea was born when Communication major Arastalis B. Choudhury sought a better way to communicate with the police in non-emergency situations. Choudhury and Askar teamed up, and NECX was born, thanks to the resources from the Mix at Mason.

Shahrier Huq

Welcome Shahrier Huq, our new Mason Science Student Ambassador! A sophomore majoring in Computer Scienceand international student from Bangladesh, Shahrier embodies Mason's diversity and global perspective. With a passion for leadership and building connections, he's eager to assist students in overcoming college life challenges. He's dedicated to promoting the exceptional STEM opportunities at Mason and fostering a welcoming community. Through mentorship and workshops, he's committed to supporting fellow students in their academic journey.Here's to a great journey ahead with Shahrier!

Winning Team: Addressing Hunger with Bits and Bytes

Congratulations to the Mason team for winning second place for their presentation on Addressing Hunger with Bits and Bytes, the theme of the 2021 Virtual Virginia Datathon. The team, with Faysal Shaikh, MS student, Computational and Data Sciences, as team leader, also included Bikram Adhikari, PhD student, Computer Science; Amira Al-Khulaidy, PhD student, Computational Social Sciences; Kokou Wilfried Letsou, PhD student, Computational Science and Informatics; and Luke Palmieri, BS student, Computational and Data Sciences. The Mason team analyzed available data, in one scenario taking into account car ownership (or lack thereof) and reasonable access to a grocery store. Presentations were judged on impact, innovation, feasibility, completeness of idea, and presentation.
Learn more about the initiative.

AmeAmor Blatchford Rodriguez

Congratulations to #MasonScience student AmeAmor Blatchford Rodriguez for being awarded the National Leader in Education award as a top 10 scholar of the year for the Hispanic Scholarship Fund. Rodriguez is majoring in Computational and Data Science and started the data science and computation society here at Mason. Learn more about her achievements.

Nikita Lad

Today's spotlight is on Nikita Lad, an accomplished PhD Candidate in Environmental Science and Policy at George Mason University. Originating from India, Nikita's academic journey, from Microbiology to Bioanalytical Sciences, showcases her diverse expertise. Excelling in regulatory affairs, she now focuses on sustainability in higher education. Nikita pioneers a survey tool to assess the impact of coursework on students' sustainability literacy, contributing to Mason's commitment to innovative research. Engaging with the National Science Policy Network, she's a Science Diplomacy Fellow and Scholar-in-Residence, embodying Mason's dedication to global impact. Mason Nation is proud and inspired by her leadership, guiding new members.

Alex Murphy

Meet Alex Murphy, alum, Environmental Science and Policy. Alex graduated from Mason in May 2022 as an environmental science major with a concentration in ecological science.

His classes, experiences, and research he participated in at Mason prepared him to land a great job right after graduation at the Prince William Soil and Water Conservation District where he is currently a Conservation Specialist.

In this position, Alex has ample opportunities to do fieldwork and computer work in GIS, soil nitrogen modeling, nutrient management planning, erosion management planning.

He also has access to state, local, and federal databases, which allows them to collaborate in a multidimensional way with professionals in the field. Alex routinely networks with natural resource professionals across the Commonwealth and is learning a great deal about state programs, environmental laws and regulations.

The classes he took at Mason prepared him well. Microbiology with Dr. Salerno, for example, showed him how microbes, an essential resource in aquatic food webs, are reliant on water quality. Soil Ecology with Dr. Ahn gave him the knowledge to understand soil characteristics and diversity, which he now uses in conservation planning. And his policy-infused ecology classes with Dr. Smith showed him how they implement conservation practices for important ecological areas.

PWSWCD is dedicated to hiring passionate individuals who strive to improve our environment. If you would like to learn more, you can reach him at alexmurphy@pwswcd.org

Ashley Robertson

The spotlight is on Ashley Robertson this week! Ashley is graduate student pursuing a Master’s degree in Environmental Science and Policy (ESP) . She chose ESP thanks to the amazing faculty and the classes they offer. She always felt supported by the department and was often encouraged to step outside of her comfort zone.

One of her proudest moments at Mason was earning the Boren Fellowship for the 2022-23 academic year to study abroad. Thanks to the fellowship, Ashley is conducting her master’s thesis research at Ewha Woman's University in Seoul, South Korea.

After she graduates in Fall 2023, Ashley hopes to find a job within the federal government to work on energy policy issues.

To conclude this #StudentSpotlight, Ashley offers a shoutout to Alpha Kappa Chi , Dr. Jennifer Sklarew , Dr. Ted Hsuan Yun Chen , Dr. Karen Akerlof , and Dr. Younsung Kim !

Jordan Sims

Mason Science congratulates Jordan Sims, second year PhD student, Environmental Science and Policy, for earning an NSF Graduate Research Fellowship. Sims, a student in The Salerno Lab, is studying microbial ecology of coral reef ecosystems to better understand the role that bacteria play in coral reproduction and disease. The fellowship will fund her ongoing project, “Understanding the Bacterial and Environmental Drivers of Stony Coral Settlement.” Read more about this exciting achievement here.

Katheryn Hout

Meet Mason Science student, Katheryn Hout, who is studying Environmental Science with a concentration in human and ecosystem response to climate change. She co-founded a sunrise chapter during the COVID-19 pandemic to enact change and provide other students with a voice. Hout has researched and worked with various climate models simulations to predict the climate for the next 100 years using dynamic models with previously collected data. Learn more about her efforts and research here.

Camille Goblet

Camille Goblet, a doctoral student co-advised by Cody Edwards, Associate Provost, Institute for a Sustainable Earth, & Executive Director, Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation, and Elizabeth W. Freeman, Associate Professor, School of Integrative Studies, is conducting genomic analysis of managed Eastern Black Rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis) populations in institutions of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. This project will aid in management and conservation of the critically endangered black rhinoceros by performing genetic analyses of individuals within the North American population. Read more on her research.

Kimberly Todd

Kimberly Todd, a master's student pursuing a degree in Environmental Science and Policy with a concentration in conservation science and policy, was recently featured in "Focus on the Future," a series that seeks to highlight the early career scientists who conduct research at the Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute.

Currently, she is involved with the ongoing swift fox reintroduction program at the Fort Belknap Indian Reservation in north-central Montana.

Marcus Chua

Marcus Chua, a doctoral student co-advised by HC Lim, Assistant Professor, Biology and Thomas Lovejoy, Professor, Environmental Science & Policy, is investigating the systematics and taxonomy of the living chevrotains- animals also known as mouse-deer. Read more about his research.

Wren Bell

Meet Wren Bell , an Environmental and Science Policy alum who graduated in December 2022 with a major in environmental science and policy concentrating on ecological science with minors in conservation studies and computer science.

Wren's interest in stream ecology began when she watched a video of a stream scientist standing in waders, chest-deep in a stream, in Dr. Cindy Smith's Biomes and Human Dimension’s class. When she took Dr. Amy Fowler's Aquatic Invertebrate Ecology class, it confirmed for her that she wanted to work with these amazing organisms. In her microbiology class with Dr. Jennifer Salerno, she learned techniques that would benefit her in her current role as a Field Technician for Prince William Country Watershed Management Division.

In addition to her passion for stream science, Wren has always advocated for people with disabilities, especially those like her who rely on mobility devices. Wren is very visible with her disability because she feels fortunate to have the opportunity to work in these fields and wants others to know that they, too, can be a scientist or ecologist, regardless of physical ability.

Maddie Bowers

This #StudentSpotlight features Maddie Bowers, graduate student in the Forensic Science Program. Bowers decided to pursue forensic science due to her love for DNA and genetics. Some of her favorite moments in the program include being in the DNA lab where they got to analyze the DNA profiles they worked on all semester. Bowers encourages anyone who is considering a Forensic Science degree to check out our Mason Forensic Science Program. With so many amazing opportunities, hands-on learning, crime scene investigation, and experienced professors, it’s a one-of-a-kind experience. After earning her Bachelor’s in Forensic Science this past spring, and now working to earn her Master’s in Forensic Biology, along with her DNA research internship, she will be well-prepared for her future career in the forensic DNA field.

Oliver Denaburg

Meet Oliver Denaburg, graduate student and teaching assistant pursuing his Master’s in Forensic Science, with a concentration in Crime Scene Investigation. After watching shows like CSI: Miami, Denaburg was hooked to forensic science. He chose #MasonScience thanks to our top-notch facilities and equipment like the Crime Scene House and the FARO 3D laser scanners. Some of his fondest memories of being a part of the program include working at the Research and Training Laboratory and working with the individuals from FARO Technologies . In fact, Denaburg has started his research on the comparison of firearm trajectory determinations by using traditional hand measurements and the FARO 3D scanners. Thanks to all the opportunities and training provided by our Forensic faculty and partners, Denaburg will undeniably be a stand-out candidate when applying to crime scene units in the area after graduation.

GISDay

Happy #GISDay, #MasonNation! #DYK the Department of Geography and Geoinformation Science offers various undergrad and graduate programs here at Mason? Such as urban informatics, geographical information systems, and more! Check out what #MasonScience alumni Amy Rose has to say about her experience in the GGS department.

Emma Von Hoene

Meet Emma Von Hoene, BAM student, Geography and Geoinformation Science. Geography is a family affair for Emma, with both her parents studying geography, and her dad being a Mason alum, she quickly became fascinated with the topic after taking a few GGS courses her freshman year. After a couple of years of undergraduate studies, Emma decided to enroll in the BAM (Bachelor's/Accelerated Master's) program to get a head start on her graduate courses. The BAM program has provided her with opportunities to develop specialized skills, participate in research, and accelerate her career. After completing her Master’s next year, Emma plans to pursue her PhD in Earth Systems and Geoinformation Sciences. She plans on continuing her research on the improvement of representation of human behaviors in agent-based models of infectious disease spread, alongside Dr. Taylor Anderson.

Mark Bossinger

Meet Mark Bossinger, BAM Student, Department of Geography and Geoinformation Science. Mark chose GGS because it covers the technical aspects of nearly any scientific discipline, all while providing a broad range of research topics and opportunities. Slowly but steadily, Mark started to gravitate towards remote sensing and forestry-related monitoring. When he discovered the Geoinformatics and Geospatial Intelligence BAM, it was a perfect fit. The program provides many courses in the areas he’s interested in, so Mark really gets to sink his teeth into the material and its conceptual information. For anyone considering GGS, Mark encourages you to ask around the department and see what interests you- there’s specialists in cartography, urban planning, drone surveying, and more! Mark gives a special shoutout to some of his favorite professors: Konrad Wessels, Lori Mandable, Ed Oughton, and Christine Rosenfeld!

Three-Minute Thesis Winners

This past spring, our #MasonScience PhD students made a near sweep at the 2023 Three-Minute Thesis competition. The conference, hosted by GAPSA, Mason Graduate Student Life, and Mason's Graduate Division, showcased scholarly, research, and creative works from Mason graduate students across disciplines through posters, oral presentations, and creative, visual, and performing arts.

The winners include:
-First Place: Steven Zhou, College of Humanities and Social Science: “Measuring Profiles and Patterns of Leadership Behavior”
-Second Place: Amy Rose, Geography and Geoinformation Science: “Hyperspectral Signature Development for Aircraft-Induced Clouds from Aerial and Ground-Based Sensors”
-Third Place: Doreen Peters, Environmental Science and Policy: “Using Dragonfly Exuviae as a No-Kill Approach to Monitor Mercury along the Freshwater Potomac River”
-People’s Choice: Patricia Sinclair Interdisciplinary Program in Neuroscience: “Energy and Aging: The Estrogen Connection”

Congratulations to all the winners, and kudos to all the participants!

Alonso Gabriel Ogueda-Oliva

Meet Alonso Gabriel Ogueda-Oliva, a standout Mathematical Sciences Ph.D. candidate and one of the brilliant minds in the second cohort of IDIA Predoctoral Fellows George Mason University! His groundbreaking project, 'A New Data-Driven Machine Learning Framework to Predict Dynamics of Infectious Diseases,' integrates social sciences and predictive analytics to revolutionize our understanding of disease spread. With a mission to address health disparities and improve public health interventions, Ogueda-Oliva is charting new territories in computational research.

Learn more about the project.

Sky Ratcliffe

MasonScience congratulates, Sky Ratcliffe, incoming doctoral student, for being one of four students to earn the 2022 Graduate Inclusion and Access Scholarship. Thanks to this scholarship, Ratcliffe is set to start their Mathematics PhD program this fall.

Meet Mason Science alumni Dr. Jenna Cann, an astrophysicist with a BA in Astronomy and PhD in Physics from the Department of Physics and Astronomy here at George Mason University. Dr. Cann's research focuses on black holes in dwarf galaxies. Dr. Cann found their place in astronomy when she transferred to Mason from Nova Community College. She worked on various projects with blackholeGMU and is most proud of their work with spectrum.gmu, a diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility advocacy group at Mason. As one of the co-founders, she worked relentlessly to acknowledge the barriers that members of under-represented groups face when pursuing STEM education and careers. Congratulations on your achievements Dr. Cann! Learn more about their story here.

Geovanny Reyes-Matute

This #StudentSpotlight features Geovanny Reyes-Matute, Graduate Student in the School of Systems Biology (SSB), and EMDP2 alum. Geovanny’s journey at Mason has been unique yet rewarding. He completed his Pre-Med Post-Bac through the EMDP2 program, which allowed him to pursue his Master’s in biology, all while applying to medical school. Geovanny always had a desire to continue learning and advancing in science, and the MS Biology program was the perfect place to do that. The program not only set him up for success in medical school, but it has led him to a more thorough understanding of many biological processes.

Kerianne Richards

Meet Kerianne Richards, Doctoral Student in the School of Systems Biology (SSB) studying Bioinformatics and Computational Biology. After completing her Master’s, she took a break from academia to gain experience in her field before pursuing a doctoral degree. During this break, she realized SSB would be the perfect place to pursue her PhD. In her words, “SSB is a uniquely integrated department that seamlessly pairs STEM with current and pertinent affairs in the research, academic, and clinical world.” This factor, along with faculty members with industry and academic research experience, helped make Kerianne’s decision.

Graduate Life at Mason

Meet Carissa Hunter, third year PhD student in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry. This video, made in collaboration with Mason's Graduate and Professional Student Association (GAPSA), gives a sneak peek into her life as a graduate student at George Mason University.