Abbey Muenchow
University of Texas at San Antonio
Abbey’s exposure to research through the Voelcker Academy and her own medical journey encouraged her to pursue research with the goal of helping others. She is deeply interested in neurodevelopment disorders and how they affect the brain and behavior. Abbey enjoys spending time outdoors, reading, climbing, and participating in an honors society for students with
disabilities that is focused on support and advocacy.
Alexis Garcia
Texas State University
Alexis has a natural interest in the biological and chemical sciences, and after witnessing the effects of cancer in her personal life, she was driven to pursue a career in medical laboratory science. Through biomedical research, she hopes to broaden her understanding in fields such as pharmacology and oncology to one day play a role in the treatment of various cancers.
Anja Shakocius
Trinity University
Anja is fascinated by microbiology and forensics, and has past experience working with pharmacology and physiology in a lab setting. This has motivated her to explore pursuing a career in clinical or forensic pathology. Anja is involved in multiple clubs around campus including Trinity Choir and her sorority Sigma Theta Tau.
Brianna Garrett
Trinity University
Brianna is a Chemistry major and Mathematics minor at Trinity University with a strong interest in research and scientific discovery. Her work at the Southwest Research Institute introduced her to organic synthesis and drug design, and she continues to deepen her understanding through tutoring students in math and chemistry.
Elizabeth Mamczarz
Trinity University
Elizabeth, born and raised on the island of Guam, developed a passion for improving healthcare systems after seeing the challenges of an underserved medical community firsthand. She is especially interested in research as a way to drive meaningful change. In her free time, she enjoys playing the violin.
Gabriella Gilliam
University of Texas at Austin
Gabriella is a hard working, dedicated individual who is passionate about understanding the cellular and molecular basis of disease, as well as projects that advance community health. She aims to combine her love for research and helping others to improve people’s lives through biomedical research. In her free time, Gabriella can be found in the lab, taking care of her plants, and attending sporting events.
Marelly Perez
University of the Incarnate Word
Marelly has a strong interest in biomedical research and drug development. She currently studies the cytotoxic effects of thymol derivatives on triple-negative breast cancer cell lines. She is involved in the Biology Club, Chemistry Club, UIW Honors Program, and LSAMP. She plans to pursue a PhD and career in medicine to continue exploring ways to improve human health through science.
Nizalia Siddiqui
University of Texas at Austin
Nizalia is passionate about leveraging stem cell therapy to target glioblastoma cells. She is excited to explore the intersection of neurology and oncology. In her free time, she enjoys baking, exploring nature, discovering new coffee shops around Austin, and playing board games with her family.
Taylor Gonzalez
St. Mary’s University
Taylor is a biology major with a strong interest in the pathology of neurodegenerative diseases and cardiovascular research. Outside of academics, Taylor volunteers at Methodist Hospital in the patient escort department, works as a customer service representative at Planet Fitness, and enjoys playing tennis. She is excited to gain hands-on experience and grow as a researcher this summer.
Y Nguyen
University of Texas at Austin
Nhuy has always been interested in navigating healthcare disparities among disadvantaged communities. She foresees herself applying her knowledge in research and healthcare to become a clinician-scientist. Outside of academics, she loves to spend time hosting creative art workshops for children and adults at local libraries, reading books, and spending time in nature.