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Ephrath is a sophomore at Rice University pursuing a B.S. in Biosciences (Pre-Med track), graduating in May 2028. She conducts research in the Segatori Lab on therapeutic strategies using mammalian cells and synthetic biological circuits, building on prior experience sequencing mitochondrial DNA of the endangered Houston toad. Alongside her research, she has gained clinical exposure through volunteering and physician shadowing, and leads campus health initiatives promoting education and equity. Ephrath is eager to expand her research expertise through the UPWARDS program while exploring diverse career paths in biomedical science.

Yusuf is an Honors Biomedical Sciences major at the University of Houston and aspires to become a physician-scientist (MD/PhD). He serves as an undergraduate research trainee at MD Anderson Cancer Center, where he has contributed to projects in cancer biology, anesthesiology, and bioinformatics, leading to co-authorship on an upcoming manuscript and a conference presentation. His experiences combine rigorous research with clinical exposure and a strong commitment to addressing healthcare disparities. Beyond academics, Yusuf has demonstrated leadership through mentorship, student government, and health equity initiatives.

Benjamin is a sophomore at Rice University majoring in Cell and Molecular Biology. He has conducted advanced research in RNA therapeutics, gene editing, and cancer immunotherapy, including projects on modified mRNA synthesis, RNA ligation optimization, and Locked Nucleic Acid technologies. His long-term goal is to develop next-generation RNA-based immunotherapies, particularly CAR-NK and CAR-macrophage platforms, with a focus on accessibility and cost-effectiveness. Beyond academics, Benjamin is a QuestBridge Scholar and Bishnoi Research Scholar, actively engaged in leadership, ministry, and community service.

Isaiah Le is pursuing a double major in Data Science and Applied Statistics at the University of Houston-Downtown. He has engaged in research and leadership through the NNSA scholarship program and various leadership roles on campus. After graduation, he plans to pursue a Ph.D. in Statistics and continue supporting laboratories through his passion for data analysis in natural science research.

Jiwang is a returning Summer UPWARDS trainee and rising senior at Rice University, majoring in Exercise Physiology with a Minor in Biochemistry and Cell Biology, and maintaining a 4.0 GPA. As a current AYL UPWARDS trainee and returning UPWARDS/CURE trainee, he has notable cancer research experience, particularly in translational breast cancer therapies, with hands-on training in cell cycle checkpoint inhibitors and targeted molecular therapy. His experience includes cell cycle analysis, DNA damage repair mechanisms, and biomarker identification for potential responders. Jiwang is and has been an ideal trainee ¨C he is focused, dedicated and bright with an unmistakable passion for biomedical research and data analysis. As Vice President of Rice University¡¯s QuestBridge Chapter, he is committed to mentoring first-generation, low-income students in STEM research. With his academic excellence, hands-on research skills, commitment to advancing biomedical research, and dedication to community engagement, Jiwang is a standout UPWARDS/CURE trainee, poised to make a meaningful impact this summer.

Daniella is a junior at Rice University pursuing a B.S. in Bioengineering with a 3.65 GPA. She has research experience in conservation
genetics through the Rice Emerging Scholars Program and further explored molecular biology and cancer genetics during an externship at Baylor College of Medicine. This summer, she participated in the CPRIT-CURE Program at MD Anderson, studying transcription factor mutations in hematologic cancers. Daniella is passionate about developing targeted cancer therapies and plans to pursue graduate studies in biomedical research.

Martin is a senior at Houston Christian University pursuing a B.S. in Biology. As a current UPWARDS AYL trainee and former RAMP trainee, he has conducted research in cancer immunotherapy and molecular biology, focusing on tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) and colorectal carcinoma therapies. His work explores strategies to enhance tumor targeting and overcome immune suppression through TGF¦ÂNDII-engineered TILs and fucosylation. Beyond research, Martin serves as a peer mentor and teaching assistant, aspiring to pursue an MD/PhD and inspire future scientists through teaching and discovery.

Madeline is a sophomore at Rice University pursuing a B.S. in Cell and Molecular Biology. Originally a Materials Engineering major, she
shifted to biosciences to align her academic interests with her goal of becoming a pediatric physician-scientist specializing in neuro-oncology. She
has research experience in nanomaterials and bioinformatics, complemented by community service through hospice volunteering and mentorship. Madeline is particularly interested in developing viral vector¨Cbased therapies and immunotherapies for pediatric brain tumors, aspiring to an MD/PhD career that bridges research and clinical care.

Carmen is a junior at Rice University majoring in Biosciences with a concentration in Cell Biology and Genetics and minoring in Medical Humanities. Motivated by her mother¡¯s breast cancer journey, she has pursued oncology research from high school through independent projects at Rice, including work with IL-6 knockout mouse models to study inflammatory signaling in breast cancer. She is skilled in molecular biology techniques such as PCR, Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, and mouse colony management. Alongside her research, Carmen explores the ethical and social dimensions of cancer care through medical humanities and policy-focused internships, aspiring to a career as a physician-scientist.

Zara is a Mexican-American first generation student at UHD.  Per Zara, ¡°I have been lucky to be a part of UPWARDSand Dr.Calin's lab for a year now, where I have been able to apply my education as well as learn many new concepts and techniques, since I am currently investigating the role of an ultra-conserved element in a knockout mouse model¡±.  After graduation she plans to apply for PA school where she hopes to transfer all the skills and knowledge that she gained to be a part of a healthcare team.  Zara¡¯s passions include traveling, learning about different cultures and tasting a variety of different cuisines.  She recently returned from her first solo trip and she¡¯s in the process of learning a third language.  In the future, Zara hopes to take her career around the world to see how different countries and cultures approach healthcare and how she can best utilize her passion, training, experience and skills to help people.

Justin is a junior at Houston Christian University pursuing a degree in Biochemistry-Molecular. He is conducting research under the mentorship of Dr. Hailemichael, gaining valuable experience in biomedical investigation. With aspirations to attend medical school, Justin hopes to become a pediatric oncologist while continuing to engage in research. His academic and professional goals reflect a strong commitment to advancing both patient care and scientific discovery.

Ashley is a junior at Houston Christian University (formerly HBU) studying electrical engineering with a minor in biology. Under the mentorship of Dr. Bhattacharya, she is continuing as part of the UPWARDS program. With a passion for not only engineering but also medicine, she hopes to further her education and earn a M.D./Ph.D. with a focus on biomedical engineering.

Breana is a junior at Houston Christian University (formerly HBU), studying Biochemistry/Molecular Biology with a minor in Psychology. This year, as a part of the UPWARDS program, she is working under Dr. Varsha Gandhi. After completion of undergraduate studies, she hopes to pursue an M.D./Ph.D.

Zara is currently a junior, at Houston Christian University, and is pursuing a Biology major and General Business minor. This academic year, she is working under the mentorship of Dr. Gheath Alatrash. Upon completing her undergraduate degree, she is interested in pursuing a Physician Assistant degree, while still being involved in research.

Cindy is a senior at Houston Christian University pursing a biology degree with a minor in chemistry. She will be working under the mentorship of Dr. Roza Nurieva. Upon the completion of her undergraduate program, Cindy plans to go to medical school and staying heavily involved in research. 

Jackie is a junior at Houston Christian University majoring in Biology with a minor in Spanish. As part of the UPWARDS program, she is conducting research in Dr. Kalocsay¡¯s lab, gaining hands-on experience in biomedical investigation. She plans to pursue a career in the healthcare industry, combining her scientific training with her language skills to serve diverse communities. Jackie¡¯s academic and professional goals reflect a strong commitment to science and patient care.

Maria is an undergraduate Biochemistry and Molecular Biology student at Houston Christian University studying biochemistry with a minor in molecular biology and she is currently orking under the mentorship of Dr. Roza Nurieva.  After graduation, she plans to pursue an MD or an MD/PHD Program. Though she is interested in different specialties, her current interest is Gynecologic Oncology.  

Roberto is a junior at the University of Houston, majoring in biochemistry. As part of his involvement in the UPWARDS program, he is under the mentorship of Dr. Andrew G. Sikora. After finishing his undergraduate degree, Roberto desires to attend medical school.

Ana Paula is a senior pursuing a Chemistry major with a minor in philosophy at the University of St. Thomas.  The year, she is working in the lab of Dr. Schlacher.  She would like to continue doing research and has decided that pursuing a PhD is the next step for her after graduation.

Ashley is a sophomore at Houston Christian University (formerly HBU) studying electrical engineering with a minor in Biology.  Under the current mentorship of Dr. Bhattacharya, she is working as part of the UPWARDS program.  With a passion for not only engineering but also medicine, she hopes to further her education and earn a MD with a focus on biomedical engineering. 

Cindy, a junior at Houston Christian University (formerly HBU), is currently pursuing a Biology degree. 
This academic year, she is working with Dr. Nurieva in her lab.  Upon the completion of her pre-med program, she plans to go to medical school to become a plastic surgeon while still being heavily involved with research. 

Khayla is currently a senior pursuing a Biochemistry major with a minor in mathematics at the University of Houston. And she's currently working under the mentorship of Dr. Kasambeli.

Saman is a senior studying biochemistry and molecular biology at Houston Christian University (formerly HBU). As part of the UPWARDS program, he is working under the mentorship of Dr. DePinho. Upon completion of his undergraduate program, Saman would like to go to medical school. 

Maria is a junior at Houston Christian University (formerly HBU) studying biochemistry with a minor in molecular biology. This year, as part of the UPWARDS program, she is working under the mentorship of Dr. Roza Nurieva. Maria is interested in clinical research and would like to further her education and get an M.D./Ph.D. 

Sarah is a sophmore at Houston Christian University majoring in Biochemistry an Molecular Biology.  As part of the UPWARDS program, she is working under the mentorsho of Dr. Kelly Hunt in the KeyHunt Lab.  Upon completion of her undergraduate degree, Sarah plans to pave her way into medical school.

Zara is a Molecular Biology major at the University of Houston-Downtown.  She aspires to be a Physician Assistant with hopes to integrate the values learned through UPWARDS to my future career.  Working with Dr. Calin's lab provides a unique perspective to pathology/oncology.  Besides her studies, Zara is passionate about traveling and learning about different cultures.

Rubi is a senior studying biology with a minor in Spanish at Houston Baptist University. When she is not in class or participating in the UPWARDS program, she serves as an EMT and is active on campus and in her community. This year Rubi is working under the mentorshsip of Dr. Roza Nurieva. Upon completion of her undergraduate program, Rubi would like to pursue an M.D./Ph.D.

Raul is a junior at Texas Wesleyan University studying biology with a minor in chemistry. He is a returning student from the summer UPWARDS program. This fall Raul worked under the mentorship of Dr. Elizabeth Park in the Watowich lab. Once his undergraduate degree has been conferred, would like to work towards an M.D./Ph.D. with a focus on oncology.

Daniel is a senior studying biology at Houston Baptist University. He is currently working in Dr. Robert Behringer's lab. Upon graduation, Daniel would like to start a post-baccalaureate before starting graduate school.

Codi is a junior studying biology with a minor in chemistry at the University of St. Thomas. As part of the UPWARDS program she is working in the Gandhi lab. In addition to the research she conducts as part of the UPWARDS program, she also works in a lab on her college campus. Codi would like to go to medical school upon graduation and later work in family medicine. 

Saman is a junior studying biochemistry and molecular biology at Houston Baptist University. As part of the UPWARDS program, he is working under the mentorship of Dr. Faika Mseeh in the Jones lab. Upon completion of his undergraduate program, Saman would like to go to medical school. 

Maria is a sophomore at Houston Baptist University studying biochemistry with a minor in molecular biology. This year, as part of the UPWARDS program, she is working under the mentorship of Dr. Roza Nurieva. Maria is interested in clinical research and would like to further her education and get an M.D./Ph.D. 

Jene is currently a sophomore studying biology on the pre-med track at Houston Baptist University. She is currently working in the Davies lab as part of the UPWARDS program. Upon completion of her undergraduate degree, Jene would like to become a physician scientist.

Christopher is a junior studying biochemistry with a minor in philosophy at the University of St. Thomas. This fall, Christopher worked in the Eisenhoffer lab. Christopher would like to get his medical degree and focus on health disparities once he finishes his undergraduate program.