BLaST Scholars

BLaST Research Scholarships (Scholars) pays tuition + course fees up to 15 credits and a monthly stipend at the University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF ONLY). Awardees must be enrolled full-time in academic degree programs in biomedical science fields, and must be U.S. citizens, U.S. non-citizen nationals, or permanent residents. BLaST Scholars are guided through participation in:

*Personally relevant, mentored, biomedical research experiences as part of an undergraduate curriculum that emphasizes active, connected, and experiential learning, and

*A cohesive learning community that offers numerous student support services.

 

Degree:  BS Computer Science
Faculty Mentor: Buechler, Brian
Project Title: Explorative: SAFE Processing Optimization with Serverless Technology for GIS
Award Year: 2024-2025

 

Degree:  BS Biological Sciences
Faculty Mentor: Wild, Lauren
Project Title: Stable isotope and mercury analysis of bowhead whale skin and blubber
Award Year: 2024-2025

 

Degree: BS Biological Sciences
Faculty Mentor: Glass, Jessica
Project Title: Validating the use of eDNA for Identifying Humpback Whale Prey Species
Award Year: 2024-2025

 

Degree: BS Biological Sciences
Faculty Mentor: Muscarella, Mario
Project Title: Microbial Response to Permafrost Thaw and Coalescence
Award Year: 2024-2025
Degree:  BS Interdisciplinary Studies
Faculty Mentor: Lopez, Andres
Project Title: Assessing Kuskokwim salmon with environmental DNA
Award Year: 2024-2025
Degree:  BS Biological Sciences
Faculty Mentor: Lian, Marianne
Project Title: Martens and Mink as Indicators for Alaskan one health - MMIA
Award Year: 2024-2025
Degree:  BS Biological Sciences
Faculty Mentor: Health impacts of volcanic ash from Pavlof Volcano
Project Title: Drew, Kelly
Award Year: 2024-2025
Degree:  BS Biology & Computer Science w/Math minor
Faculty Mentor: Buffington, Christi
Project Title: Cripple Creek Restoration Communication
Award Year: 2024-2025

 

Past Scholars

AY24 GY10 Degree Faculty Mentor Project Title Award Year
Baysinger (Owens), Spencer BS Computer Science Lawler, Orion Autonomous Pathing for Lunar Fuel Source Extraction 2023-2024
Bolton, Christian BS Biological Sciences O'Brien, Kristen Evaluating enzyme activity in different tissues of Antarctic fish to determine their ability generate ATP by glycolysis 2023-2024
Brown, Julie-Anne BS Biological Sciences Drew, Kelly Hibernation biology 2023-2024
Carlin, Ashley BS Chemistry Johnston, Sarah Ellen Metal Analysis of Alaska Water Samples  2023-2024
Dempsey, Sarah BS Wildlife Biology & Conservation Crimmins, Shawn Resource Selection Function on Moose in Togiak National Wildlife Refuge 2023-2024
Gologergen, Orlin BS Biological Science Wild, Lauren Stable isotope and mercury analysis of bowhead whale skin and blubber 2023-2024
House, Maggie BS Natural Resources Buffington, Christi Biomonitoring Cripple Creek’s Water Quality After a Reconstruction Through Macro-Invertebrate Diversity 2023-2024
Loggins, Rhayne BS Biological Sciences Glass, Jessica Validating the use of eDNA For Identifying Humpback Whale Prey Species 2023-2024
Martins, Michael BS Mathematics Conde, Mark Using HAARP to Measure Temperatures and Winds in the Ionosphere as a Function of Height 2023-2024
Masterman, Robin BS Biological Sciences Drew, Kelly Hibernation biology 2023-2024
Miller, Gabriel BS Biological Sciences Weltzin, Maegan Functional potency of rabies glycoprotein in dog alpha 7 nicotinic receptors 2023-2024
Ramirez, Michelle BS Biological Sciences Muscarella, Mario Permafrost and Topsoil Gas Analysis and Bacterial Microbiome work.  Microbial response to permafrost thaw and coalescence 2023-2024
Reece, Kristen BS Interdisciplinary Studies  Lopez, J. Andres Assessing Kuskokwim salmon with environmental DNA 2023-2024
Scotton, Sable BS Biological Sciences Lian, Marianne Martens and Mink as Indicators for Alaskan one health - MMIA 2023-2024
Smith, (Bob) Steven BS Biological Sciences Drew, Kelly Health impacts of volcanic ash from Pavlof Volcano 2023-2024
Veenstra, Grace BS Biology & Science Communications W/Minor in Math Buffington, Christi Cripple Creek Restoration Communication 2023-2024
Victorino, Kaia   (SPRING 2024 ONLY) BS Biological Sciences Olson, Link Evaluating eye lens weight as a tool for age classification in Marmota sp; Challenging the theory of indeterminate mammalian growth in Marmota sp. and related Alaskan squirrels 2023-2024
White, (Lucy) James BS Fisheries and Marine Science and Computer Science Sikes, Derek Biodiversity assessment using DNA Barcoding: Saint Paul Island endemic nonmarine macroinvertebrates 2023-2024
AY23 GY9 Degree Faculty Mentor Project Title Award Year
Addington, Maximus (Max) BS Biological Sciences Drew, Kelly   2022-2023
Baker-Chapman, Tyler BS Biological Sciences Muscarella, Mario Effects of bacteriophage on antibiotic resistance 2022-2023
Bennett, Keren (Shookasholik) BA Psychology     2022-2023
Bolton, Christian BS Biological Sciences O'Brien, Kristen Evaluating enzyme activity in different tissues of Antarctic fish to determine their ability generate ATP by glycolysis 2022-2023
Brown, Julie-Anne BS Biological Sciences Drew, Kelly Hibernation biology (title in progress) 2022-2023
Bryant, Tirzah BS Wildlife Biology & Conservation Kielland, Knut Behavioral patterns of snowshoe hares at salt licks 2022-2023
Carlin, Ashley BS Chemistry Johnston, Sarah Metal Analysis of Alaska Water Samples 2022-2023
Dempsey, Sarah BS Wildlife Biology & Conservation Crimmins, Shawn Resource Selection Function on Moose in Togiak National Wildife refuge 2022-2023
Ekada, Laura BS Biological Sciences Phillipe, Jacques Getting through a Pandemic: The Role of Culture and Traditions in a Rural Alaska Native Community 2022-2023
Gologergen, Orlin BS Biological Sciences Wild, Lauren Stable isotope and mercury analysis of bowhead whale skin and blubber 2022-2023
House, Maggie BS Natural Resources Buffington, Christi Biomonitoring Cripple Creek’s Water Quality After a Reconstruction Through Macro-Invertebrate Diversity 2022-2023
Ito, Logan BS Biological Sciences Lopez, Andres Comparative Genetic Analysis of Herring 2022-2023
Loggins, Rhayne BS Biological Sciences Winker, Kevin Curating ornithology multiple tissue specimens for UAF Museum of the North. 2022-2023
Martins, Michael BS Biological Sciences Conde, Mark Using HAARP to Measure Temperatures and Winds in the Ionosphere as a Function of Height 2022-2023
Masterman, Robin BS Biological Sciences Drew, Kelly Hibernation biology (will add more details later) 2022-2023
Miller, Gabriel BS Biological Sciences Badiei, Alireza The affects of siRNA silencing on VDR production in microglia 2022-2023
Mueller, Daphne BS Biological Sciences Lopez, Andres Merganser diet project 2022-2023
Owens, Spencer BS Computer Science Drown, Devin Comparative Performance of Embedded Systems for Genomic Analysis 2022-2023
Pfeffer, Helen (Nicia) BS Electrical Engineering Thorsen, Denise Building a prototype hearing aid 2022-2023
Ramirez, Michelle BS Biological Sciences Muscarella, Mario The role of the ceca microbiome in the health and population dynamics of Icelandic Rock Ptarmigan (Lagopus muta) 2022-2023
Reece, Kristen BS Biological Sciences Lopez, Andres, Harrings, Maggie Dolly Varden and Arctic Grayling abundance in relation to the Chinook/Chum salmon runs via eDNA and qPCR techniques. 2022-2023
Scotton, Sable BS Biological Sciences Brinkman, Todd Testing a formula: Calculating how fast caribou are moving via angles and camera placement 2022-2023
Smith, Steven (Bob) BS Biological Sciences Drew, Kelly, Harvey, David Health impacts of volcanic ash from Pavlof Volcano 2022-2023
Stitz, Shadrach BS Chemistry Howard, Bill Investigation into the role of zirconocene in mediating or catalyzing peptide bond formation 2022-2023
Veenstra, Grace BS Biology & Science Communications w/minor in Mathematics Buffington, Christi Cripple Creek Restoration Communication 2022-2023
Victorino, Kaia BS Biological Sciences Kitaysky, Alexander Carry-over effects of altered reproductive effort on subsequent breeding season condition in a long-lived seabird 2022-2023
White, Lucy BS Fisheries and Marine Science and Computer Science Sikes, Derek Biodiversity assessment using DNA Barcoding: Saint Paul Island endemic
nonmarine macroinvertebrates		 2022-2023
AY22 GY8 Degree Mentors Project Title Award Year
Addington, (Max) Maximus BA Sciences Emily Sousa TBD 2021-2022
Asplund, Sydney BA Psychology Theresa Vertigan, Carie Green Take me to your happy place: Evaluation of natural places and measure of well-being in college students of Interior Alaska 2021-2022
Baker-Chapman, Tyler BS Biological Science Theresa Vertigan, Mario Muscarella Phage therapy against multidrug-resistant Escherichia coli forces trade-offs between antibiotic resistance and phage resistance leading to drug susceptibility 2021-2022
Bolton, Christian BS Biological Sciences Hannah Robinson, Andrea Bersamin Veggie Meter and Veggie Texts - We read a person's veggie intake with a veggie meter and conduct an experiment using text messages to see if their veggie score improves 2021-2022
Brown, Jeramiah BS Biological Science Hannah Robinson, Devin Drown DNA Repair Efficiency in Lung Cancer Cell Lines 2021-2022
Brown, Julie-Anne BS Biological Science Theresa Vertigan, Kelly Drew Hibernation biology 2021-2022
Bryant, Tirzah BS Wildlife Biology & Conservation Emily Sousa, Knut Kielland Behavioral patterns of snowshoe hares at salt licks 2021-2022
Dempsey, Sarah BS Wildlife Biology & Conservation Emily Sousa, Sebastian Zavoico, Shawn Crimmins Moose habitat selection in the changing environment of Southwest Alaska 2021-2022
Dykes, Daniel BS Biological Science Theresa Vertigan, Abel Bult-Ito, Thomas Kuhn Trait specific modulatory effects of caffeine exposure on compulsive-like behaviors in a spontaneous mouse model of OCD 2021-2022
Ekada, Laura BS Biological Science Emily Sousa, Jacques Phillip Getting through a Pandemic: The Role of Culture and Traditions in a Rural Alaska Native Community 2021-2022
Gologergen, Orlin BS Biological Science Emily Sousa, Lauren Wild Stable isotope analysis of bowhead whale skin and blubber 2021-2022
House, Thomas BS Fisheries and Ocean Sciences Theresa Vertigan, Donald Arthur Stable isotope signatures in rockfish across the Gulf of Alaska 2021-2022
Jacobs, Jill BS Chemistry Hannah Robinson, Kelly Drew Pharmacodynamic and Prototype Refinement of BCP-191 2021-2022
Kokrine, Justin BS Biological Science Theresa Vertigan, Jacques Phillip Getting through a Pandemic: The Role of Culture and Traditions in a Rural Alaska Native Community 2021-2022
Larson, Paul BS Wildlife Biology and Conservation Hannah Robinson, Diane O'Brien Lead (Pb) contaminants in Common Eiders 2021-2022
Matson, Shayle BS Biological Science Theresa Vertigan, Don Larson "Effects of temperature on shedding rates of Trichobilharzia alaskensis" 2021-2022
Mahoney, Josephine Dropped for Spring Semester 1/4/22 BS Biological Science Emily Sousa, Devin Drown Microbial communities of marl sediments from polygonal ponds on the Arctic Coastal Plain 2021-2022
Mari, (Edie) Edith BA Interdisciplinary Emily Sousa, Amanda Kelley Evaluation of the Alaska Ocean Acidification Network's community sampling program 2021-2022
Martins, Michael BS Biological Science Emily Sousa, Mark Conde establishing new methods to measure winds and temperatures in the atmosphere 2021-2022
Masterman, Robin BS Biological Sciences Emily Sousa, Ellen Chennoweth, Kelly Drew Hibernation biology (will add more details later) 2021-2022
Matson, Shayna BS Biological Science Theresa Vertigan, Devin Drown DNA analysis of biofilms in UAF water sources 2021-2022
Mueller, Daphne BS Biological Science Theresa Vertigan, Andres Lopez Microbial community diversity in sediment and water from the Chena River 2021-2022
Pfeffer, (Nicia) Helen BS Electrical Engineering Theresa Vertigan, Denise Thorsen Building a prototype hearing aid 2021-2022
Ramirez, Michelle BS Biological Science Emily Sousa, Scott Jerome White and Grey matter in aging dogs using MRI 2021-2022
Smith, (Bob) Steven BS Biological Science Emily Sousa Health Hazards of Volcanic Ash on Neighboring Environments and Communities 2021-2022
Stitz, Shadrach BS Chemistry Emily Sousa, Bill Howard Investigation into the role of zirconocene in mediating or catalyzing peptide bond formation 2021-2022
Tindall, Jordan BS Chemistry Theresa Vertigan, Jessica Black, LaVerne Demientieff Reawakening the Spirit 2021-2022
Veenstra, Grace BA Psychology/Physics Theresa Vertigan, Kristin Timm Analysis of audience responses to the #ClimateNight 2021-2022
Wade, Samantha BS Biological Science Theresa Vertigan, Mary Beth Leigh Evaluating the Effectiveness of Micro-Blaze in Bioremediating Diesel Contaminated Soil Collected in Rural Alaska 2021-2022
AY 21 GY7 Degree Mentor(s) Project Title Award Year
Asplund, Sydney BA Psychology Peterson, Jen Take me to your happy place: Evaluation of natural places and measure of well-being in college students of Interior Alaska 2020-2021
Baker, Hailey BS Biological Sciences Drew, Kelly EGG Analysis of Arctic Ground Squirrels Throughout Hibernation 2020-2021
Bolton, Christian BS Biological Sciences Podlutsky, Andrej DNA damage and repair in mammalian cells culture 2020-2021
Brown, Jeramiah BS Biological Science Podlutsky, Andrej DNA repair efficiency in lung cancer cell lines 2020-2021
Bryant, Tirzah BS Wildlife Biology & Conservation Kielland, Knut Salt lick usage patterns of Snowshoe Hare 2020-2021
Chythlook, Craig BBA, Business Adminstration, Minor Rural Development Lopez, Ellen Rural Water Services Impact on Subsistence 2020-2021
Dorvall, Anastacia (Cia) BS Biological Science Oliver, Ryan (Scott) Mechanisms of Muscle and Adipose Tissue Regulation and Remodeling in Response to Cold and Exercise 2020-2021
Dykes, Daniel BS Biological Science Thomas Kuhn (2nd Mentor), Abel Bult-Ito Trait specific modulatory effects of caffeine exposure on compulsive-like behaviors in a spontaneous mouse model of OCD 2020-2021
Ekada, Laura BS Biological Science Phillipe, Jacques Getting through a Pandemic: The role of culture and traditions in a Rural Alaska Native Community 2020-2021
Fisher, Mollie BA Biological Science Larson, Don Effects of temperature on shedding rates of Trichobilharzia alaskensis 2020-2021
Gologergen, Orlin BA Biological Science Quakenbush, Lori Marine mammal health 2020-2021
Harvey, David BS Geoscience Maio, Chris Reconstructing plant communities through sediment cores in Kodiak, AK 2020-2021
Hobgood, Olivia BS Biological Science Durrett, Mel Mining With Plants: Investigating Phytoextraction on Local Mine Waste 2020-2021
House, Thomas BS Fisheries and Ocean Sciences Arthur, Donald Stable isotope signatures in rockfish across the Gulf of Alaska 2020-2021
Larson, Paul BS Wildlife Biology and Conservation Cyr, Andrew Lead (Pb) contaminants in Common Eiders 2020-2021
Lekanof, Hayley BS Biological Science O'Brien, Kristen Do Antarctic fish draw from their glycogen reserves when warm-treated? 2020-2021
Lliaban, Shayle BS Biological Science Larson, Don Effects of temperature on shedding rates of Trichobilharzia alaskensis 2020-2021
Lu, Brianna BS Biological Science Podlutsky, Andrej Acetylcholine receptors response to rabies virus glycoprotein 2020-2021
Martins, Michael BS Biological Science Conde, Mark Establishing new methods to measure winds and temperatures in the atmosphere 2020-2021
Masterman, Robin BS Biological Sciences O'Brien, Diane Stable isotopes and human diet 2020-2021
Matson, Shayna BS Biological Science Drown, Devin DNA analysis of biofilms in UAF water sources 2020-2021
McMillan, Casey BS Psychology Bult-Ito, Abel Grooming behavior in a non-induced mouse model of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder 2020-2021
Mueller, Daphne BS Biological Science Lopez, Andres Merganser diet project 2020-2021
Peterson, Margaret BS Fisheries and Ocean Sciences Rea, Lorrie The Mercury content versus Stable Isotopes in a pacific cod tail vertebrate 2020-2021
Quillin, Michelle BS Wildlife Biology & Conservation Brinkman, Todd Utilizing satellite imagery to assess climate change impacts on river navigability and subsistence food security around Hughes, Alaska 2020-2021
Schafer, Cheyenna BS Biological Science O'Brien, Diane Nutrition and Traditional Food Use in Rural Alaska 2020-2021
Thompson, Anthony (Tony) BS Wildlife Lopez, Andres Development and testing of environmental DNA assay for Arctic Lamprey Lethenteron camtschaticum 2020-2021
Tindall, Jordan BS Chemistry Laverne Demientieff, Jessica Black Reawakening the Spirit 2020-2021
Wade, Samantha BS Biological Science Leigh, Mary Beth Sequencing the genome of an oil-degrading bacterium from the Arctic Ocean 2020-2021
AY 20 GY6 Degree Mentor(s) Project Title Award Year
Bagoyo, (Editha) Angela (Angie) BS Biological Science Drew, Kelly Day and Night Comparison to Maximize Learning in Sprague Dawley Rats: Circadian rhythms and animal behavior 2019-2020
Bennett, Shane BS Chemical Engineering Weltzin, Meagan Marine toxins, PSP, Environmental impacts of toxins on subsistence foods 2019-2020
Brown, Jeramiah BS Biological Science Podlutsky, Andrej DNA Repair Efficiency in Lung Cancer Cell Lines 2019-2020
Chythlook, Craig BBA, Business Adminstration, Minor Rural Development Lopez, Ellen Rural Water Services Impact on Subsistence 2019-2020
Dorvall, Anastacia (Cia) BS Biological Science Oliver, Ryan (Scott) Mechanisms of Muscle and Adipose Tissue Regulation and Remodeling in Response to Cold and Exercise 2019-2020
Dykes, Daniel BS Biological Science Kuhn, Thomas; Bult-Ito, Abel Trait specific modulatory effects of caffeine exposure on compulsive-like behaviors in a spontaneous mouse model of OCD 2019-2020
Fisher, Mollie BA Biological Science Larson, Don Effects of temperature on shedding rates of Trichobilharzia alaskensis 2019-2020
Harvey, David BS Geoscience Larsen, Jessica A One Health investigation of volcanic ash from Pavlof Volcano 2019-2020
Hobgood, Olivia BS Biological Science Hansen, Cristina (Nina) Surveillance for and characterization of Leptospirosis in Alaskan caribou and reindeer 2019-2020
Humphrey, Jennie BS Wildlife Biology and Conservation Bersamin, Andrea Food security and sovereignty in Klukwan, Alaska 2019-2020
Khalsa, Noah BS Fisheries and Ocean Science Kelley, Amanda Resilience and sensitivity of coastal ichthyofauna to Arctic change 2019-2020
Lekanof, Hayley BS Biological Science O'Brien, Kristen Do Antarctic fish draw from their glycogen reserves when warm-treated? 2019-2020
Lliaban, Shayle BS Biological Science Larson, Don Effects of temperature on shedding rates of Trichobilharzia alaskensis 2019-2020
Lu, Brianna BS Biological Science Podlutsky, Andrej Acetylcholine receptors response to rabies virus glycoprotein 2019-2020
Matson, Shayna BS Biological Science Drown, Devin Exploring the kinetics and cleavage sites of cysteine cathepsins for vaccine design 2019-2020
McCahon, Shelby BS Wildlife Bio and Conservation Todd Brinkman, Marianne Lian, Corey Williams Assessing Creamer's Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge Winter Trail Use 2019-2020
McMillan, Casey BS Psychology Bult-Ito, Abel Grooming behavior in a non-induced mouse model of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder 2019-2020
Mueller, Daphne BS Biological Science Podlutsky, Andrej Omega-3 Intake in Alaska Native Diet and Type 2 Diabetes; Arctic microbes & tracking population changes with a warming Baseline Study 2019-2020
Parrish, Ava BA Elementary Education Healy, Joanne Social Scaffolding Between Milo the Robot and Individuals with ASD 2019-2020
Polanco, Jonilee BS Biological Science Leigh, Mary Beth Phytoremediation of Diesel Contaminated Soils in a Rural Alaskan Community 2019-2020
Quillin, Michelle BS Wildlife Biology & Conservation Rea, Lorrie Bioaccumulation of mercury in northern fur seals relative to rookery fidelity at St. Paul Island, Alaska 2019-2020
Schafer, Cheyenna BS Biological Science O'Brien, Diane Nutrition and Traditional Food Use in Rural Alaska 2019-2020
Taylor, Garrett BS Biological Science Vertigan, Theresa Arctic Microbes: Tracking population changes with a warming climate baseline study 2019-2020
Thao, Shelly BS Biochemistry Weltzin, Megan Rabies Virus glycorprotein peptide and neuronal nicotinic receptors 2019-2020
Thompson, Anthony (Tony) BS Wildlife Hansen, Cristina (Nina) PCR surveillance for Leptospira in red-backed vole kidneys in Fairbanks, Alaska 2019-2020
Wade, Samantha BS Biological Science Leigh, Mary Beth Sequencing the genome of an oil-degrading bacterium from the Arctic Ocean 2019-2020
Moore, Harrison BS Computer Engineering Klobucar, Deanna VR Bike project: Virtual Reality Exercise in Rural Alaska 2019-2020
Sato, Kailer (Kai) BS Biological Science O'Brien, Diane n/a 2019-2020
Rivera, Kristian BS Biological Science Kuhn, Thomas Immune system proteases: Kinetics and cleavage sites of cathepsin S in the context of vaccine development 2019-2020
AY 19 GY5 Degree Mentor(s) Project Title Award Year
Bagoyo, (Editha) Angela (Angie) BS Biological Science Dilliplaine, Kyle Spring 2019: Veggie-Meter's Influence on Food and Beverage Choices; Summer 2019: Core Lab Apprenticeship Program 2018-2019
Carrasco, (Ana) Fiorella BS Biological Science Chen, Jack Performance of 5th generation HIV screening assays and their effect on current HIV Algorithms; and Dec 2018: BioPlex HIV Ag-Ab assay: Incidence of false positivity in a low-prevalence population and its effects on the current HIV testing algorithm 2018-2019
Clark, Melissa BS Biological Science Hansen, Cristina (Nina) PCR Surveillance for Leptospira interrogans in Alaskan caribou (rangifer tarandus granti) and Reindeer (Rangifer tarandus tarandus) 2018-2019
Dorvall, Anastacia (Cia) BS Biological Science Oliver, Scott (Ryan) Creation of a rodent treadmill to test exercise training during extreme cold exposure 2018-2019
Dykes, Daniel BS Biological Science Kuhn, Thomas Effects of Social Isolation in OCD Mice 2018-2019
Erhart, Gladys BS Biological Science Reynolds, Arleigh Comparing vitamin D levels in sled dogs who eat wild game/fish diet vs sled dogs eating commercial dry dog food 2018-2019
Fisher, Mollie BS Biological Science Larson, Don Effects of temperature on shedding rates of Trichobilharzia alaskensis 2018-2019
Hautala, Kendrick BS Natural Resource Management Courtney Carothers, Andrea Bersamin Tundra to Table: Instruments and Education Pilot Testing (Fa2018); Indigenizing Salmon Management (Sp2019) 2018-2019
Humphrey, Jennie BS Wildlife Biology and Conservation Drown, Devin Mobilizing Alaskan Genomics-- exploring Alaska's soil microbiome/ Prevalence of PQQ producing bacteria in Alaskan soil 2018-2019
Khalsa, Noah BS Fisheries and Ocean Science Kelley, Amanda Using western blotting to quantify the expression of carbonic anhydrase and heat shock proteins 70 & 90 in clams raised in ocean acidification levels 2018-2019
Kim, Jimin (Josh) BS Biological Science Coker, Robert (Trey) Nutrient Formulation for Liver Health 2018-2019
Kromrey, Laura BS Biological Science Lopez, Ellen Gaining Parents’ Perspective on the Hands-on Therapy Intensive Treatment Model 2018-2019
Lekanof, Hayley BS Biological Science Cyr, Andrew Selenium deficiency in freshwater fish (pike): Is mercury poisioning the result of selenium deficiency? 2018-2019
Lliaban, Shayle BS Biological Science Green, Carie Emotional and Behavioral Processes of Environmental Identity Development among Rural and Non-Rural Alaskan Children; and Effects of temperature on shedding rates of Trichobilharzia alaskensis (Swimmer's itch) 2018-2019
Lu, Brianna BS Biological Science Podlutsky, Andrej Effects of Alaska Botanicals (specifically Bog Blueberries and Low Bush Cranberries) as more of a naturopathic therapy for Parkinson's Disease expressed in C. Elegans and mice 2018-2019
Marth, Tandi BA Psychology Bult-Ito, Abel Effects of CB1 receptor agonist and antagonist exposure on compulsive-like behaviors in a spontaneouse mouse model of OCD 2018-2019
Maupin, Sarah BA Ak Native Studies Stern, Charlene QPR suicide prevention Alaska Native perspective 2018-2019
McCahon, Shelby BS Biological Science Williams, Corey Effects of Photoperiod and Dopamine Disruption on Sleep and Mass Gain (Sp2019, Su2019-under Shankar); and Different methods for measuring plasma protein concentration produce different results: a study comparing the Bradford assay and refractometry in three Alaska species (Su2019-under Lian) 2018-2019
McMillan, Casey BS Psychology Bult-Ito, Abel Grooming behavior in a non-induced mouse model of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder 2018-2019
Mikes, Monica BS Biological Science Drew, Kelly Analysis of experimental feed on fatty acid profile and body temperature of Arctic ground squirrels 2018-2019
Moore, Harrison BS Computer Engineering Lupinek, Josh Virtual Reality Exercise in Rural AlaskaVR bike project 2018-2019
Mueller, Daphne BS Biological Science Podlutsky, Andrej Omega-3 Intake in Alaska Native Diet and Type 2 Diabetes/Arctic Microbes: Tracking Population Changes with a Warming Climate Baseline Study 2018-2019
Newman, Janessa BA Biological Science Phillipe, Jacques 1-Stories and Images of Community Strength from a Youth Dog Mushing Program in Rural Alaska. 2-Intergenerational Dialogue Exchange and Action to Facilitate Youth Wellness 2018-2019
Parrish, Ava BA Elementary Education Healy, Joanne Social Scaffolding Between Milo the Robot and Individuals with ASD 2018-2019
Polanco, Jonilee BS Biological Science Kuhn, Thomas Nanondisc technology for studying membrane proteins. 2018-2019
Quigley, Gwendolyn BS Natural Resources Management Brinkman, Todd Behavioral Response of Caribou to Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Traffic 2018-2019
Quillin, Michelle BS Wildlife Biol & Conservation Rea, Lorrie Do adult female northern fur seal's dietary preferences correlate to their total mercury burden? 2018-2019
Ratky, Savanna BS Biological Science Chen, Jack Demographics of Mumps Outbreak in Alaska 2018-2019
Rivera, Kristian BS Biological Science Kuhn, Thomas Lipid Composition Impacts MHCII Assembly in Nanodiscs 2018-2019
Wade, Samantha BS Biological Science Kuhn, Thomas Sequencing the genome of an oil degrading bacterium from the Arctic ocean 2018-2019
Wing, Hannah BS Biological Science Campbell, Kendra Examining postpartum depression screening behavior of prenatal care providers and support providers in Alaska and Hawaii 2018-2019
AY 18 GY4 Degree Mentor(s) Project Title Award Year
Carrasco, (Ana) Fiorella BS Biological Science Chen, Jack Performance of 5th generation HIV screening assays and their effect on current HIV Algorithms 2017-2018
Clark, Melissa BS Biological Science Kuhn, Thomas Binding of hemagglutinin to Major Histocompatibility Complex II (MHC Class II) 2017-2018
Edwin, Christina BA Rural Dev Stern, Charlene Tl'eegho baabe' in Maneelghaadze T'oh (Native foods in Koyukuk Alaska): A personal journey of reclaiming identity through the making of moose head soup 2017-2018
Erickson, Diloola BA Rural Dev Kelley, Amanda Building sensors to assess ocean acidification of nearshore environments 2017-2018
Fisher, Mollie BS Biological Science Seed, Vaughn Skeletal measurements as indicators of environmental change in brown and polar bears 2017-2018
Hautala, Kendrick BS Natural Resource Management Hansen, Cristina (Nina) Surveillance for and characterization of Leptospirosis in Alaskan caribou and reindeer 2017-2018
Humphrey, Jennie BS Wildlife Drown, Devin Mobilizing Alaskan Genomics-- exploring Alaska's soil microbiome/
Prevalence of PQQ producing bacteria in Alaskan soil		 2017-2018
Khalsa, Noah BS Fisheries Kelley, Amanda Using western blotting to quantify the expression of carbonic anhydrase and heat shock proteins 70 & 90 in clams raised in ocean acidification levels 2017-2018
Kim, Jimin (Josh) BS Biological Science Coker, Robert (Trey) Nutrient Formulation for Liver Health 2017-2018
Llewelyn, KaCee BS Biological Science Seed, Vaughn Assessing if an Physical and Interactive Anatomy and Physiology Model Enhances and Enriches Student Learning 2017-2018
Lliaban, Shayle BS Psychology Green, Carie Measuring Emotions in Children's Environmental Identity Development 2017-2018
Lu, Brianna BS Biological Science Bult-Ito, Abel Effects of Alaska Botanicals (specifically Bog Blueberries and Low Bush Cranberries) as more of a naturopathic therapy for Parkinson's Disease expressed in C. Elegans and mice 2017-2018
Marth, Tandi BS Psychology, Bio Bult-Ito, Abel Effects of CB1 receptor agonist and antagonist exposure on compulsive-like behavior in spontaneous mouse model of OCD 2017-2018
Maupin, Sarah BA AK Native studies Lopez, Ellen Healing in Alaska Native Communities through traditional beading 2017-2018
Mikes, Monica BS Biological Science Drew, Kelly Analysis of experimental feed on fatty acid profile and body temperature of Arctic Ground Squirrels 2017-2018
Parrish, Ava BA Education/Biology Green, Carie Measuring Emotions in Children's Environmental Identity Development 2017-2018
Podlutskaya, Viktorija BS Biological Science Podlutsky, Andrej DNA repair in virally infected cells 2017-2018
Polanco, Jonilee BS Biological Science Podlutsky, Andrej Measuring DNA repair rates for HeLa and HDFa cell lines 2017-2018
Quigley, Gwendolyn BS Natural Resource Management Vertigan, Theresa The Influence of Red Meat (Reindeer versus Beef) on Human Protein Synthesis 2017-2018
Ratky, Savanna BS Biological Science Bult-Ito, Abel Studying on the chronic effects of DfBr on Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder Mice model 2017-2018
Rivera, Kristian BS Biological Science Podlutsky, Andrej Genetic repair dynamics and geen expression in cancerous (HeLa)and healthy (HDFa) cells 2017-2018
Shaw, Raven BA General Studies Coker, Melynda (Sheri) The Influence of Red Meat (Reindeer versus Beef) on Human Protein Synthesis 2017-2018
Tyadalma, Sequoia S BS Biological Science Drew, Kelly Hallucinogen plants and how they affect brain recovery and brain activity in sheep and goats 2017-2018
Velasco, Mark Anthony E BS Biological Science Podlutsky, Andrej The effects of hibernation on the rates of DNA repair in Arctic Ground Squirrels following DNA damage 2017-2018
Wing, Hannah F BS Biological Science Greenberg, Joshua The Influence of Red Meat (Reindeer versus Beef) on Human Protein Synthesis 2017-2018
AY17 GY3 Degree Mentor(s) Project Title Award Year
Cartagena, Gabriel BS Psychology Kuhn, Thomas Cross-Cultural Comparison of HIV/AIDS Survivorship 2016-2017
Chingliak, Miyah BS Biological Sciences Frare, Carla Parkinsons-like Behavior in C. elegans and OCD mice 2016-2017
Edwin, Christina BA Rural Development Coker, Melynda (Sheri) The Effect of Organic, Range-fed, Dietary Meat on Human Protein Synthesis 2016-2017
Feller, Janelle BS Biological Sciences Bult-Ito, Abel Muscle Synthesis: Game Meat vs. Red Meat 2016-2017
Hautala, Kendrick BS Biological Sciences Murphy, Molly Marten Liver analysis/Humpback whale muktuk analysis 2016-2017
Himschoot, Elizabeth BS Biological Sciences Murphy, Molly Alaskan Bat Viral Metagenomics 2016-2017
Kim, Josh (Jimin) BS Biological Sciences Murphy, Molly Functional Benefits of Weight Loss in Overweight/Obese Elderl 2016-2017
Kleijka, Jesse BS Biological Sciences Ferrante, Andrea Tumor Neoantigens Novel Pathogen on Alaska's North Slope 2016-2017
Kowolski, Brandon BS Biological Sciences Leigh, Mary Beth Diesel biodegradation potential of birch and spruce rhizospheres 2016-2017
Kromrey, Laura BS Biological Sciences Dunlap, Kriya Monitoring Brown Adipose Tissue in Sled Dogs 2016-2017
Marth, Tandi BA Psychology Built-Ito, Abel Bidirectional modulation of CB1 receptors influences compulsive-like and social interaction behaviors in a non-induced model 2016-2017
Moran, Abigail BS Biological Sciences Chen, Jack Assessing the strengths and needs of our Alaska informal caregivers and Hepatitis C and G 2016-2017
Parrish, Ava BS Biological Sciences Healy, Joanne Social Scaffolding Between Milo the Robot and Individuals with ASD 2016-2017
Podlutskaya, Viktorija BS Biological Sciences Podlutsky, Andrej DNA repair in virally infected cells 2016-2017
Rhines, Olivia BS Chemistry (Biochemistry) Kuhn, Thomas Click chemistry: Probing interactions of ursolic acid with proteins 2016-2017
Santana-Miranda, Vanessa BS Biological Sciences Bult-Ito, Abel Effects of Caffeine on Anxiety 2016-2017
Varier, Thorne BS Biological Sciences Harris, Michael Respiration in Amphibians 2016-2017
Watson, Katrina J BS Biological Sciences Hueffer, Karsten Effect of HIV envelope protein gp120 neurotropism on lipid raft coalescence in SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells 2016-2017
Blevins, Ethan Biological Sciences Vertigan, Theresa Behavioral modifications through viral interactions with nicotinic receptors 2016-2017
Price, Charlette BS Biological Sciences Hueffer, Karsten Francisella Tularensis sub species 2016-2017
AY16 GY2 Degree Mentor(s) Project Title Award Year
Cartagena, Gabriel BA Psychology Lopez, Ellen Cross-Cultural Comparison of HIV/AIDS Survivorship in Alaska and Africa 2015-2016
Feller, Janelle BS Biological Sciences Built-Ito, Abel Muscle Synthesis-Game Meat vs. Red Meat 2015-2016
Trinkle (Franklin), Samantha Wildlife Biology and Conservation Hueffer, Karsten Red and Arctic Fox microbiology 2015-2016
Hautala, Kendrick BS Wildlife Biology Murphy, Molly Marten Liver analysis; Humpback whale muktuk analysis; and MARTIN-mercury analysis, Leptospirosis in Alaska caribou and reindeer; and Indigenizing Salmon Management 2015-2016
Himschoot, Elizabeth BS Wildlife Biology and Conservation Murphy, Molly Alaska bat viral metagenomics 2015-2016
Knight,Dallon BS Chemistry Hayes, Sarah Bioaccessibility of metal(oids) in road dust 2015-2016
Kowalski, Brandon P BS Biological Sciences Leigh, Mary Beth Diesel biodegradation potential of various birch and spruce rhizospheres 2015-2016
Krepel, Stacey A BS Biological Sciences Kuhn, Thomas; Dunlap, Kriya Inflamatory stress induces a biphasic Nrf2 activation in neuronal cells; and Effects of CRAMP on expression of formylpeptide receptors 2015-2016
Marth, Tandi E BA Psychology Built-Ito, Abel Bidirectional modulation of CB1 receptors influences compulsive-like and social interaction behaviors in a non-induced model 2015-2016
Moran, Abigail M BS Biological Sciences Lopez, Ellen Assessing the strengths and needs of our Alaska informal caregivers and Hepatitis C and G 2015-2016
Paskvan, Adam B BS chemistry Dunlap, Kriya; Reynolds, Arleigh Inflammation markers in human subjects comparing to sedentary subjects 2015-2016
Rhode (Flowers), Kristen BS Wildlife Biology and Conservation Harris, Mike Brown adipose thermogenesis in sled dog puppies 2015-2016
Ruerup, Ronin BS Chemistry Vertigan, Theresa Effects of methylmercury on adipocytes 2015-2016
Santana-Miranda, Vanessa BA Physiology Bult-Ito, Abel Effects of caffeine on anxiety-like and compulsive-like behaviors in a non-induced OCD mouse model 2015-2016
Varier, Thorne BS Biology & Psychology Drew, Kelly; Harris, Michael Hallucinogen plants and how they affect brain recorvery and brain activity in sheep and goats involved in dysphagia; The UVI-AES Horticulture and Aquaculture program production systems: To provide farmers with economically viable technologies 2015-2016
Watson, Katrina J BS Biological Sciences Drew, Kelly Effect of HIV envelope protein gp120 neurotropism on lipid raft coalescence in SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells 2015-2016
Weaver, Alyssa N BS Biological Sciences Podlutsky, Andrej; Coker, Melynda (Sheri) The effect of a high protein nutritional supplement on weight loss and reten 2015-2016
Monrean (White), Billyann BS Biological Sciences Hueffer, Karsten; Coker, Melynda (Sheri) Pathophysiology of the rabies virus; and Screening Bioactivity of Virus Surface Glycoprotein Peptides using C. Elegans Electropharyn giogram 2015-2016