Scholar Experience
Meet our Scholars
Christopher Animashaun
While at University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC), I was lucky enough to have participated in multiple research internships, ranging from infectious disease pathology and computation chemistry to materials science & bioengineering. My research interests include biotechnology/bioengineering and tissue engineering. When I am not working, I enjoy going to the gym and reading comic books.
Brian Hanson, Jr.
As a University of Maryland Baltimore County (UMBC) Meyerhoff and McNair Scholar, I have acquired the training and preparation to navigate post-baccalaureate education to pursue a terminal degree. My graduate research goal is to integrate smart biosensor technology with data analytics and machine learning to detect, analyze, and diagnose diseases. In my spare time, I enjoy learning calisthenics skills, spending time with family/friends, and dancing.
Alexis Moody
I received a B.A. degree in Biology from Rutgers University. I recently received a M.S. in Biology from Hampton University. My current research interests include cancer diagnostics and biomarker discovery. My goal is to create a device for physicians to use that can detect proteins associated with cancer without the need for invasive surgery. The earlier cancer is detected, the sooner treatment can begin. When I am not working, I enjoy traveling, learning new dances, and most importantly training my one-year-old Labrador Retriever named Penny.
Shaquwana Simpson
I decided to change my major to chemistry, with the hopes of still helping others. I received my BS in chemistry from North Carolina Central University. Throughout my time there, I participated in many undergraduate research experience (REU) programs to get a gauge on how chemistry studies can be used to help others. I plan on beginning my Ph.D. studies at Old Dominion University, where I will attend biochemistry, chemistry, and other courses. My primary interest involves the exploration of medication and biochemistry.
Kayah Tucker
I started my journey in higher education at ODU as a Biology major. Toward the end of my master's program, a professor made a comment that resonated with me. He stated to my class, "a physician treats the disease, but a scientist treats the cause." That comment made me realize how fruitful scientific discovery is within medicine, and I set my goals on becoming a Biomedical Scientist after attaining my MS from EVMS. Besides studying, I enjoy running, hiking, and playing games with family and friends.
Project Titles
Christopher Animashaun
Title: Assessing the Biocompatibility of Bacterial Nanocellulose
Description: The objective is to develop wearable biosensors able to identify relevant biomarkers in open wound sites in order to properly treat chronic wounds in patients.
Brian Hanson, Jr.
Title: Fabrication of a Glucose Biosensor based on Flexible Laser-Induced Graphene
Description: Glucose monitoring devices play an essential role in the treatment of process for diabetics. However, main routine of using these devices involves invasive techniques that lead to scarring. This research project intends to further develop the techniques for non-invasive glucose level measurement and analyze sweat glucose to create machine learning models to predict blood glucose levels in real-time for patients.
Alexis Moody
Title: Lateral Flow microRNA Strip Biosensor for Early Prostate Cancer Detection
Description: The development of a lateral flow assay tool using miRNA as a biomarker and bioelectric technology for quantification. This tool is aimed to provide specific, fast, private and reliable prostate cancer diagnosis results at home.
Kayah Tucker
Title: Exploring Nanoparticles for Targeted Drug Delivery
Description: My initial project involves the use of let-7c-miRNA, a tumor suppressor gene, as a biomarker conjugation to AuNP's, and further observation of its expression in H9C2 cells after conjugation. This will enable me to evaluate the delivery efficacy of AuNP's that I have fabricated.
Shaquwana Simpson
Title: Investigation of Vanadium Complexes as Anti-HIV Drugs
Description: This research aims to compose a new drug that infuses vanadium to combat HIV/AIDs since HIV continues to be a major global public health issue.
Our Alumni
Year
Name
Occupation
Fellowship and Grant Awards
G-RISE Scholars receive stipends starting at $25,342 per year—during their first to third year of graduate study. In subsequent years, students are generally supported by grants of their research mentors/ department in the form of RA or TA. However, during the second year of graduate study, all scholars are required to submit proposals for individual predoctoral fellowships.
The following G-RISE Scholars have received independent research grants and fellowship awards.