Crystal Valenzuela
St. Mary’s University
Crystal is a current research intern participating in a project in biomedical engineering at her home institution to assist future patients with finger flexion and extension after trauma or disease. She is described as academically excellent and a leader. Outside of academics, she enjoys volunteering and playing in the orchestra.
Durga Meenakshi Panneerdoss
University of Texas at San Antonio
Following family experiences, Durga has passionately dedicated herself to exploring biomedical research in oncology. She has had the opportunity to contribute to prior research projects that have developed her science acumen, and she aspires to continue her studies through a research-oriented MD/PhD program.
Evan Villarreal
St. Mary's University
Evan is currently exploring the world of genome editing through the CRISPR-Cas system in a lab at his university. Through his work in STUROP, he is excited to broaden his perspective of how biomedical research can help others maintain healthy and active lifestyles. Evan has enjoyed working as a SeaWorld ride operator and library assistant at St. Mary’s University and is also a proud
member of the Marianist Society.
Fazeleh Mirghassemi
Trinity University
Fazeleh is passionate about virology research to better understand the world of minute, yet deadly diseases. She strives to become a professional that is sensitive to socio-economic challenges of communities and to ensure those in need receive equitable medical care. Fazeleh has experience in both news reporting and coordinating marketing.
Larry Diaz
University of the Incarnate Word
Larry’s fascination with signal transduction pathways and physiologic drug interactions have stoked his passion to explore graduate studies and a possible career as a pharmaceutical researcher. He is currently working on a pharmacy technician certification and seeks to gain much from hands on laboratory experience to one day tackle global health challenges surrounding access to medication.
Madilyn Dominguez-Lowry
University of Texas at San Antonio
Madilyn’s exposure to microbiology and immunology courses in high school, along with the COVID pandemic, has motivated her to become a clinical research scientist.
She is described as an independent learner who takes pride in helping her peers with course content. Madilyn likes to keep herself busy and enjoys crochet, jewelry-making, and ceramics.
Portia Berryman
Trinity University
Portia is actively involved in the musical arts including choir, symphony and orchestra. She enjoys outdoor pursuits with the Boy and Girl Scouting America where she has earned many achievements. Portia would like to explore human health through the lens of microbiology to one day impact the field of oncology through gene editing.
Promise Galloway
Trinity University
Promise is interested in Virology and Immunology, and has a particular affinity towards retroviral application. She is a self-directed learner and would like to further explore the interplay of neurophysiology on medications. Promise is involved with numerous clubs, enjoys music, archery and auto mechanics.
Sofia Stanfield
University of the Incarnate Word
Sofia is excited to explore endocrinology and would like to contribute to the discovery of novel therapeutics for Diabetes. She enjoys challenges, community volunteer activities, and tutoring students from rural areas of Texas. Sofia has served in leadership roles and has dedicated herself to making a positive impact in the lives of others.
Tristan Perez
Northwest Vista College
Tristan would like to study neuroscience as a medical professional to help communities overcome the stigma associated with mental disorders. He is very analytical and seeks to unite his innate logical reasoning with his passion for chemistry and psychology. Tristan is not afraid to make mistakes, which allows him to stay open-minded while learning for learning’s sake.