Current Scientists in our Research Group

Vartika Burman - Hi! I’m Vartika and I’m a Biology and Mathematics double major. My research interests revolve around the intersection of genetics and computational biology, especially in the context of evolution, and I plan to pursue higher education in that field. Outside academics, I really enjoy watching sitcoms and painting. Barre Woods Warming Experiment Virophage project

Nekeria Ransom - I am a Master’s student in the Molecular and Cellular Biology (MCB) program at UMass Amherst, where I also completed my undergraduate degree in Biology. I’m especially interested in applying my research experience and technical skills to a career in the biotechnology/ life sciences industry. Barre Woods Warming Experiment RNA viruses and viroids project and PROPEL

Deeksha Kavalapara Barre Woods Warming Experiment RNA viruses and viroids project

Sonya Ivkovic - Hi, I’m Sonya, a major in Computer Science! I’m interested in the crossroads of biology and computer science. Whether that be bioinformatics, modeling, or machine learning, research is integral to enriching my experience at UMass. In the future, I want to work on software that will aid biological researchers or healthcare professionals. NEON Harvard Forest & Quabbin Watershed Microbime project

Amren Hossain - I am a Informatics major and Biology minor interested in health informatics and the study of life sciences. She aims to enhance access to research opportunities on campus, making it accessible to students from all majors. NEON Harvard Forest & Quabbin Watershed Microbiome project and PROPEL

Sophia Taylor - I am a majoring in Psychology on the pre-dental track. My hope as a PROPEL Research Fellow for the future is to create opportunities for underrepresented minorities in the dental field. PROPEL

Sophia Deligiannidis - I am a Psychology and Economics double major at UMass Amherst interested researching how those with disabilities are impacted by the typical research recruitment environment, and how to avoid any discrimination within the new process that PROPEL is innovating. She wants to expand PROPEL so those with disabilities can confidently apply for research labs knowing their needs will be met. PROPEL