Words from University Presidents

“We're extremely grateful to the ARCS Foundation for their partnership and support of our students. Working together, we can help develop the scientists and engineers who will lead our country's future scientific and economic development.”

Elliot Hirshman, President San Diego State University

“ARCS does an extraordinary job of funding and promoting science education in our community. By supporting the most talented and innovative students, ARCS helps San Diego lead the charge in creating new therapies to combat disease and improve human health. TSRI is grateful for the ARCS Foundation’s long-standing support of the scientific community in San Diego.”

Dr. Steve Kay, President The Scripps Research Institute

"ARCS Scholar awards provide UC San Diego graduate and doctoral students with vital support for their research in the sciences, engineering and medical fields. We are most grateful to the ARCS Foundation for its partnership in educating our future scientists, educators, innovators and leaders."

Pradeep K. Khosla, Chancellor University of California, San Diego

ARCS’ tradition of generous philanthropic support fosters excellent science and healthcare education. It not only encourages some of the most talented and deserving students at the University of San Diego, but it also strengthens related professions and enhances the quality of life for all of us in the region and beyond. We remain very grateful for the enthusiastic expression of confidence and affirmation that each ARCS’ gift represents.

James T. Harris III, D.Ed., President University of San Diego Words from Our President

The beginning of the academic school year is always filled with hopes and expectations for what lies ahead in the coming year. It is also the time for the San Diego Chapter of ARCS Foundation, Inc., to present to our recipient universities the checks that have been allocated for the Scholars they have selected. It is awe-inspiring to see Scholars so committed to their field of studies and so full of promise for the future. Though it is the beginning of a new year for our Scholars, it is the culmination of the hard work and generous spirit of our ARCS members, friends, and faithful donors from the previous year.

As all viable and enduring organizations must, ARCS Foundation has evolved from those early days of Sputnik and the Cold War. The enemy, real and imagined, no longer fuels our fear and sense of urgency to respond to crisis. Instead there is the realization that we are the women who are to nourish and support financially these Scholars who have been chosen by their universities as showing the greatest promise for good. As you read through this directory, take time to note the various fields of study. You will find them addressing the greatest problems of our time: disease, degradation of our environment, building machinery and structures, understanding our brain and how it works. The ideas are endless and only limited by our lack of imagination.

Into this paradigm of the Scholars, the universities, and the ARCS Foundation, there seems to be another entity appearing: a merging of business and industry with our goals, providing opportunity for our finished product of disciplined, knowledgeable, and enthusiastic people ready to bring their talents to the marketplace. Let’s watch to see how it matures.

As for me, I’m grabbing onto their coat tails, enjoying the ride, and hanging on for dear LIFE.

Mary Fitz, President, San Diego Chapter ARCS Foundation, Inc.

ARCS San Diego Chapter Board of Directors 2015-2016

President ...... Mary Fitz Immediate Past President ...... Diane Annala Chalmers Vice Presidents: Administration ...... Helga Moore Communications ...... Mary Lou Quick Fund Development ...... Joy Kirsch Membership ...... Sharon Arbelaez Meetings & Special Events ...... Marge Hebert University Relations ...... Alice Brown Finance ...... Tanya Schierling Recording Secretary ...... Sue Pondrom Parliamentarian...... Peggy Hanley Members-at-Large ...... Dottie Georgens, Linda Johnson

1 ARCS® Scholars 2015-2016

NAME DEGREE AREA OF CONCENTRATION SPECIALIZATION Vincent Berardi Ph.D. Computational Science Computational Human Behavior Peter Calhoun Ph.D. Statistics Random Forests Daniel Cuevas Ph.D. Computational Biology Genomics and Bioinformatics David Curran M.S. Mechanical Engineering Heat Transfer and Solar Power Bryan Hancock Ph.D. Microbiology, cell signaling, Host-Pathogen Interactions and molecular biology Sean Maddox Ph.D. Chemistry Organic Catalysis Paul Maier Ph.D. Evolutionary Biology Genomics of Adaptation and Specialization Megan Monsanto Ph.D. Cell and Molecular Biology Cardiac Stem Cell Biology Tim Montgomery Ph.D. Organic Chemistry Green Organic Chemistry Synthesis Erik Paulson Ph.D. Chemistry Bifunctional Catalysis Stephen Rice Ph.D. Evolutionary Biology Conservation Genetics/Genomics, Climate Change Kelly Ross Ph.D. Cell/Molecular Biology Regenerative Medicine Research Julia Rossi Ph.D. Computational Science Computational Physics Colette Smirniotis Ph.D. Statistics Data Assimilation Winston Stauffer Ph.D. Cell and Molecular Biology Cardiology

Jessica Bruhn Ph.D. Biological Sciences Structural Virology George Campbell Ph.D. Cell & Molecular Biology Neurodegenerative Disease Rigo Cintron-Colon Ph.D. Chemical Physiology & Physiology of Thermoregulation Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience Danielle Grotjahn Ph.D. Biomedical Sciences Cell and Molecular Biology Margarete Johnson Ph.D. Biology Immunology John Tat Ph.D. Cell and Molecular Biology; Cell Cycle Regulation, Cancer Therapeutics Molecular Pharmacotherapeutics

Lisa Alvarez Ph.D. Nursing Sciences Cardiology Dinnah Didulo Ph.D. Nursing Sciences High Risk Populations Lauren Hoffman B.A./B.S. Mechanical Engineering Water Systems Deanna Johnston Ph.D. Nursing Sciences Adult Health, Gerontology and Palliative Care Monique Lineback Ph.D. Nursing Sciences Health Promotion Anthony Shao B.S. Electrical Engineering Circuits

2 NAME DEGREE AREA OF CONCENTRATION SPECIALIZATION Grant Allen Ph.D. Quantum Information Entanglement Monogamy Laura Andersen Ph.D. Materials Science & Engineering Metallurgy, Bulk Metallic Glasses Russell Chan Ph.D. Biochemistry RNA Structural Biology Michelle Chen Ph.D. Structural Engineering Seismic Performance & Isolation Monica Chu Ph.D. Neurobiology Systems Neurobiology Christopher DeBoever Ph.D. Bioinformatics & Systems Biology Genetics and Genomics Edward Dechaumphai Ph.D. Mechanical engineering Thermal Engineering/Design Michael Denny Ph.D. Chemistry Inorganic Chemistry Igor Fedorov Ph.D. Electrical Engineering Machine Learning and Signal Processing Danielle Hagstrom Ph.D. Cellular and Developmental Biology Developmental Neurotoxicology Daniel Hoff Ph.D. Mathematics Von Neumann Algebras Eiren Jacobson Ph.D. Oceanography Biological Oceanography Maggie Johnson Ph.D. Oceanography Marine Biology Trevor Joyce Ph.D. Biological Oceanography Marine Predator Conservation Ashok Kodigala Ph.D. Nano-Photonics Plasmonics and Semiconductor Lasers Aditya Kumar Ph.D. Bioengineering Stem Cells, Heart Disease David Leon Ph.D. Physics Cosmology Frederick Matsuda Ph.D. Physics Astrophysics and Cosmology Steven Naleway Ph.D. Materials Science and Engineering Biological Materials and Bioinspired Design Emily Nardoni Ph.D. Physics High Energy Theory David Nelles Ph.D. Bioengineering Biomolecular Engineering Julia Nussbacher Ph.D. Biomedical Sciences RNA Biology Timothy O'Connor Ph.D. Applied Physics and NanoEngineering Stretchable/Wearable Electronics, Solar Energy, Bio-Integrated Devices Matthew Ondeck Ph.D. Materials Science and Biomaterials/Cancer Biology Engineering/ Bioengineering Seth Parker Ph.D. Bioengineering Cancer Metabolism Gabriel Pratt Ph.D. Bioinformatics Genomics, RNA Biology and Neurodegeneration Dustin Richmond Ph.D. Computer Engineering Hardware and System Design Kevin Ross Ph.D. Biomedical Sciences Genetics Benjamin Rubin Ph.D. Molecular Biology Genetics and Genomics Suchol Savagatrup Ph.D. Chemical Engineering Conjugated Polymer Mechanics Michael Tait Ph.D. Mathematics Extremal Combinatorics Calandra Tomaszewicz Ph.D. Biology Endangered Species Ecology & Conservation Stephanie Weng Ph.D. Biomedical Sciences Cancer Biology Matthew Wingert Ph.D. Mechanical Engineering Nanomaterials Energy Transport Christine Wittich Ph.D. Structural Engineering Earthquake Engineering

3 GRANT ALLEN LISA ALVAREZ University of California, San Diego University of San Diego Physics Department Hahn School of Nursing and Health Science Degrees: Degrees: M.S. in Physics, University of California, MSN/FNP, University of San Diego San Diego ADN in Nursing, College of the B.S. in Engineering Physics, Colorado Albemarle, Elizabeth City NC School of Mines BA in Psychology, University of North Scholar Sponsor: Carolina, Chapel Hill NC Farrell Family Foundation Scholar Sponsor: About the Scholar: Beyster Family Foundation Fund IV Under the right conditions, disturbing a physical system can About the Scholar: affect a completely separate physical system, even if vast Lisa wishes to improve collaboration between outpatient and distances separate the two. This affection is attributed to inpatient care providers for heart failure populations. Currently “quantum correlations” or “entanglement” and works via a there is a disconnect leading to incomplete discharge separate mechanism from the classical “cause and effect” instructions and follow up for these patients. Lisa plans to lead notion of a force. Quantum correlations are said to be stronger new practice changes to bridge the gap of resources from than classical types; however, in contrast, they cannot be inpatient to outpatient and increase access care. She wants to shared freely. Grant’s research seeks to understand the develop a heart failure pathway, with evidenced-based fundamental limit in which multiple systems can share practices, and implement standard guidelines for nurse entanglement. Furthermore, he is interested in finding education and discharge instructions. Education and continuity necessary or sufficient couplings that systems need in order to of care will empower patients to take control of this achieve these limiting entanglements. Grant’s most recent progressive disease and therefore decrease 30-day readmission outside interests are: spinning poi, juggling, and hunting for rates. Lisa’s outside interests include hiking, yoga, running, and wild gourmet mushrooms in lush forests. her two Italian greyhounds. Benefits to Society: Benefits to Society: Quantum theory has the potential to add a novel layer of Having a cohesive flow to care will provide the community complexity to current technology. Quantum devices, however, the best options and services for heart failure management. very often find it necessary to take advantage of quantum Heart failure is a progressive disease that affects 230 million correlations - one famous example being a teleportation device, people, 2% of the population. Furthering science in heart another being a quantum computer. By categorizing systems failure will greatly improve morbidity and mortality across all according to the correlations they can generate, Grant’s patient populations. Lisa’s professional responsibility will be research hopes to reveal the appropriate substrate with which to use the resources that she will learn to change healthcare to build quantum devices for specialized protocols and and disseminate research processes to combine them with algorithms. current practice. Awards and Honors: Awards and Honors: Summa Cum Laude Graduate, CSM Cardiac Surgery Clinical Excellence Team Quality Award: Sharp President’s Scholarship, CSM Healthcare 2014 Publications and Posters: Sharp Guardian Angel Recipient 2015 Allen, G. W.; Meyer, D. A. Polynomial Monogamy Relations. 2015, arXiv:1502.04807 arXiv.org e-Print archive. http://arxiv.org/abs/1502.04807 Coffey, M. W.; Allen, G. Eigenvalue degeneracy relations for a fully connected isotropic spin network. J. Phys. A: Math. Theor. 2011, 44, 395303.

4 LAURA ANDERSEN VINCENT BERARDI University of California, San Diego San Diego State University/Claremont Jacobs School of Engineering Graduate University Degrees: Degrees: M.S. in Materials Science & Engineering, M.S. in Applied Mathematics, San Diego University of California, San Diego State University B.S. in Materials Science & Engineering, B.S. in Mathematics, Saint Peters Univ. University of Washington, Seattle Scholar Sponsor: Scholar Sponsor: Reuben H. Fleet Foundation Fund The Donald C. and Elizabeth M. Dickinson Foundation About the Scholar: About the Scholar: The overarching goal of Vincent’s research is to harness the power Laura is studying the fracture and wear properties of bulk of mobile technology to improve the way health-promoting metallic glasses. Bulk metallic glasses are a special class of interventions are performed. Specifically, his research project metallic materials created by rapid solidification, which causes attempts to reduce secondhand smoke concentrations in them to form glass-like structures. This unique atomic structure households by placing monitors in the home that measure the leads to ideal mechanical properties for excellent wear concentration of indoor air particle concentrations. The monitors are fit with lights and sounds that activate once particle levels resistance. However, in order to exploit these materials, we exceed a threshold. He is attempting to identify patterns in the need to better understand their fracture mechanics. Laura data that will allow for more effective behavioral interventions hopes to define critical relationships between the atomic aimed at reducing indoor particle concentrations. Vincent’s outside structure, processing conditions and fracture properties of interests include running, harmonica, and following the New York these ambiguous materials. Laura enjoys hiking, running, yoga, Yankees. cooking, and beer brewing. Benefits to Society: Benefits to Society: The benefits of reducing secondhand smoke, particularly among Improving the plasticity of bulk metallic glasses is currently one children (who live in every household within our study) are well of the hottest topics in the field of materials science because of known and incredibly important. In addition, the constant, real- the great scientific and technological importance of these time interaction participants have with the monitors is expected to materials. This work has had some success; however, it has not be much more effective than the intermittent interaction in a been followed up by widespread technological use. Laura typical health intervention (e.g., meeting with a smoking cessation intends to design a bulk metallic glass by maximizing its counselor). His project focuses on increasing the specificity with inherent properties such as hardness and wear-resistance, which behaviors are identified. Doing so allows well-known while retaining a minimum plasticity and toughness. Potential principles of behavior (e.g., reinforcement) to be employed with applications for such wear-resistant materials range from significantly more rigor with the intended effect of enhancing gearbox materials to biomedical implants. This project will not public health interventions. only enable the commercialization of bulk metallic glasses, but will also provide insight as to how the structure and processing Awards and Honors: translate to the fracture toughness and wear properties. Internal Advisory Committee Stipend (SDSU/UCSD San Diego Cancer Awards and Honors: Center Comprehensive Partnership, 2013-2014) Teaching Assistant Appreciation Award, UCSD Office for ESET Award for Achievement (SDSU CSRC ACCESS For Industry, 2014) Students with Disabilities Academic Excellence in Mathematics, Graduate Student (San Diego Abe Hurlich Scholarship, ASM San Diego Chapter State University, 2013) CAL-RA and Materials Science Fellowships, UCSD Jacobs Kruze Award for Excellence in Mathematics, (Saint Peters College, School of Engineering May 2003) RISE-Pro Scholarship, German Academic Exchange Service Publications and Posters: The Boeing Company Academic Grant Berardi, V.; Lydon, J.; Kevrekidis, P. G.; Daraio, C.; Carretero- González , R. Directed Ratchet Transport in Granular Crystals. Publications and Posters: Physical Review E. 2013, 88(5). Kolodziejska, J.; Roberts, S.N.; Andersen, L.M.; Hofmann, D.C. Bellettiere, J.; Hughes, S. C.; Liles, S.; Boman-Davis, M.; Exceptional wear resistance of Cu-based metallic glass. Klepeis, N. E.; Blumberg, E.; Mills, J.; Berardi, V.; Obayashi, S.; (In preparation). Allen, T. T.; Hovell, M. F. Developing and Selecting Auditory Andersen, L.M.; Kolodziejska, J.; Hofmann, D.C.; Vecchio, K.S. Warnings for a Real-Time Behavioral Intervention. American Investigating the fracture mechanics of wear-resistant bulk Journal of Public Health Research. 2014, 2(6), 232-238. metallic glasses. Jacobs School 33rd Annual Research Expo, La Berardi, V.; Carretero-González; Hovell, M. F.; Palacios, R. A New Jolla, CA; April 17, 2014. Model for Behavioral Interventions. Presented at Society for Andersen, L.M.; Hofmann, D.C.; Vecchio, K.S. Fracture and wear Chaos Theory in Psychology and Life Sciences, 23rd Annual behavior of amorphous metals for use as gearbox materials. Conference, Portland, Oregon, July 26, 2013. Jacobs School 32nd Annual Research Expo, La Jolla, CA; April 18, 2013. 5 JESSICA BRUHN PETER CALHOUN The Scripps Research Institute San Diego State University Kellogg School of Science and Technology College of Sciences Degrees: Degrees: B.A. in Biochemistry, Biophysics and M.A. in Statistics, University of Florida, Molecular Biology, Whitman College Gainesville, FL B.A. in Mathematics, Macalester College, St. Paul, MN Scholar Sponsors: Scholar Sponsor: Roche/ARCS Foundation Scholar Award ARCS Foundation About the Scholar: About the Scholar: Jessica’s research focuses on the molecular and structural properties governing viral life cycles. She initially studied the Peter’s research is about random forests, a statistical method RNA replication machinery from Nipah virus, solving a high- for predicting outcomes with many observations. They require resolution crystal structure of one of these proteins. Nipah few assumptions, handle a variety of data structures, and are virus causes encephalitis in Southeast Asia with up to 90% easy to interpret. He applied similar statistical techniques to a fatality, and this work has contributed to the understanding necessary for the rational drug design. Her current research is large dentistry dataset to predict tooth loss. The results will be focused on Ebola virus, which has infected almost 30,000 published and will help dentists make better prognosis and people in the ongoing West African outbreak. She is trying to improve patient care. In the current era of big data, random better understand how the viral matrix protein forms new forests are a useful technique to make predictions. Peter plays virions, controls replication and suppresses the immune chess and various other board games as well as enjoys sports. system. Jessica is an avid backpacker, rock climber and snowboarder. Benefits to Society: Benefits to Society: This research is general in the sense that it can be applied to There are no approved therapeutics or vaccines available to any field where predictions are needed. There are many types treat and protect people from infection with Nipah and Ebola of models, but Peter’s research focuses on a technique that viruses. Both of these viruses cause high mortality rates in does not rely on many assumptions and typically yields more humans (70-90%) and affect some of the poorest communities accurate predictions. His research has led to publishing a across the globe. This work provides a better understanding of code to predict outcomes in the healthcare field and improve how these viruses infect humans and how we can design better patient care. drugs to combat them in infected individuals. Publications and Posters: Awards and Honors: Wilson, D., Calhoun, P., Maahs, D., Chase, H.P., Messer, L., Roche Scholar Buckingham, B., Aye, T., Clinton P., Hramiak I., Kollman, C., Beck, NIH training grant T32 R. (2015) Factors Associated with Nocturnal Hypoglycemia in Delia and Donald Baxter Fellowship At-Risk Adolescents and Young Adults with Type 1 Diabetes. Dean’s Fellowship Diabetes Technology and Therapeutics, 17: 385-391 Publications and Posters: Chase, H.P., Doyle, F., Zisser, H., Renard, E., Nimri, R., Cobelli, Jessica F. Bruhn*, Matthew Clifton*, Terry Webb, Ruth Baydo, C., Buckingham, B., Maahs, D., Anderson, S., Lum, J., Calhoun, Kateri Atkins, Amy Raymond, Don Lorimer,Thomas Edwards, P., Kollman, C., Beck, R. (2014) Multi-Center Closed-Loop/Hybrid Peter Myler, Erica Ollmann Saphire. Crystal structure of the Meal Bolus Insulin Delivery with Type 1 Diabetes. Diabetes Sudan ebolavirus VP40 dimer. Journal of Infectious Diseases. Technology and Therapeutics, 16: 623-632 Under review. Maahs, D., Calhoun, P., Buckingham, B., Chase, H.P., Hramiak, I., Jessica F. Bruhn, Katherine Barnett, Jaclyn Bibby, Jens Thomas, Lum, J., Cameron, F., Bequette, B.W., Aye T., Paul T., Slover R., Ronan Keegan, Daniel Rigden, Zachary Bornholdt, Erica Wadwa, R., Wilson, D.M., Kollman, C., Beck, R. (2014) A Ollmann Saphire. Crystal structure of the Nipah virus Randomized Trial of a Home System to Reduce Nocturnal phosphoprotein tetramerization domain. J. Virology 2014. Hypoglycemia in Type 1 Diabetes. Diabetes Care, 37(7): 1885- Bruno Correia, Yih-En Andrew Ban, Margaret Holmes, Hengyu 1891. doi.10.2337/dc13-2159 Xu, Katharine, Ellingson, Zane Kraft, Chris Carrico, Erica Boni, D. Noah Sather, Camille Zenobia, Katherine Burke, Tyler Hovorka, R., Elleri, D., Thabit, H., Allen, J., Leelarathna, L., El- Bradley-Hewitt, Jessica F. Bruhn-Johannsen, Oleksandr, Khairi, R., Kumareswaran, K., Caldwell, K., Calhoun, P., Kollman, Kalyuzhniy, David Baker, Roland Strong, Leonidas Stamatatos, C., Murphy, H., Acerini C., Wilinska, M., Nodale, M., Dunger, D. and William Schief. “Computational Design of Epitope-Scaffolds (2014) Overnight Closed Loop Insulin Delivery in Young People Allows Induction of Antibodies Specific for a Poorly with Type 1 Diabetes: A Free-Living, Randomised Clinical Trial. Immunogenic HIV Vaccine Epitope.” Structure 2010. Diabetes Care, 37(5): 1204-1211. doi.10.2337/dc13-2644 Bruno Correia, Yih-En Andrew Ban, Della Friend, Katharine Ellingson, Hengyu Xu, Erica Boni, Tyler Bradley-Hewitt, Jessica F. Bruhn-Johannsen, Leonidas Stamatatos, Roland Strong and William Schief. “Computational Protein Design Using Flexible Backbone Remodeling and Resurfacing: Case Studies in Structure-Based Antigen Design.” J. Mol. Biol. 2010. 6 GEORGE CAMPBELL RUSSELL CHAN The Scripps Research Institute University of California, San Diego The Scripps Research Institute Graduate Department of Chemistry and Program Biochemistry Degrees: Degrees: B.S. in Biology, B.S. in Chemistry, M.S. in Biochemistry, University of University of Tennessee at Chattanooga California, San Diego B.S. in Biology, University of California, Scholar Sponsor: Riverside Hervey Family Non-Endowment Fund Scholar Sponsor: About the Scholar: Timken-Sturgis Foundation George’s research seeks to understand how essential materials About the Scholar: are transported inside each individual brain cell. The transport of key materials inside brain cells is frequently impaired in Russell’s research focuses primarily on the structural biology of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease. It RNA splicing, which is a process that removes non-coding remains unclear whether a failure in transport is a symptom or regions from genetic transcripts. In bacteria, splicing is catalyzed a cause of neurodegeneration. He studies the mechanisms that by an RNA enzyme, known as the group II intron, which is control transport, and how they are affected by capable of self-splicing. In eukaryotes, this reaction is catalyzed neurodegenerative diseases. By understanding the interplay by a large RNA-protein complex known as spliceosome. Using between intracellular transport and neurodegeneration, novel X-ray crystallography, he has determined the structure of two treatments may be proposed and developed. Outside of the group II introns. Russell’s current objective is to capture lab, George enjoys archery, Improv Comedy, and board games. intermediate states of the group II intron at different stages of Benefits to Society: the splicing pathway. This will provide insight into how the group II intron selects optimal splice sites and proceeds through Further understanding of transport mechanisms in neurons each splicing step with high fidelity. Russell is currently may provide new knowledge with relevance to several neurodegenerative diseases. The most common neuro- interested in computer programming. He also enjoys degenerative disease, Alzheimer’s disease, afflicts millions in snowboarding, playing basketball and board games. the U.S. alone, and this number is expected to grow rapidly in Benefits to Society: the coming years.This rapid growth in Alzheimer’s patients RNA splicing is responsible for the removal of non-coding means that neurodegeneration research, such as understanding sequences (introns) from genes and simultaneously joining the role of axonal transport in neurodegenerative disease, is a priority for public health, which could provide the foundation coding sequences (exons) together. Alternative splicing events for novel treatments for currently incurable diseases. allow multiple combinations of exons to be included in the final message, greatly expanding the number of proteins coded from Awards and Honors: a single genome. Above all else, splicing must proceed with NIH Clinical and Translational Science Award Traineeship complete accuracy in order to maintain the correct protein Student Poster Award, Annual Meeting of the Association of coding sequence. Introns comprise ~25% of the human genome. Southeastern Biologists Currently, it is believed that a large number of genetic diseases Outstanding Research Award are the result of defects in splicing. Obtaining three-dimensional models of the spliceosome or group II intron at different steps of S.G.A. Outstanding Senior in B.S. Biology: Molecular splicing could lead to a greater understanding of how splice sites Murray Raney Chemistry Scholarship are selected and result in the development of therapeutics to Publications and Posters: combat splicing-associated diseases. Neumann, S., Campbell, G. E., Szpankowski, L., Goldstein, L. S. Awards and Honors: B., Encalada, S. E. Characterizing the Composition of Molecular Inamori Foundation Fellowship, 2015 Motors on Moving Axonal Cargo Using "Cargo Mapping" Analysis. J. Vis. Exp. 2014, 92, e52029. Graduate Student Research Award, International Conference on the Crystallization of Biological Macromolecules, 2012 Campbell, G.E.; Encalada, S.E. Coordination of Molecular Motors in Axonal Transport; Graduate Student Retreat, The NIH Cellular and Molecular Genetics Training Grant Recipient, Scripps Research Institute, Lake Arrowhead, CA.; October 2014. UCSD, 2011-2014 Campbell, G.E., Searching for Genetic Control: A Closer Look at Publications and Posters: Methylation Patterns and Microsatellites in Colon Cancer. Chan R.T. and Robart A.R.; Peters J.K.; Toor N. Structural dynamics Departmental Honors Thesis. The University of Tennessee at of the catalytic triplex during RNA splicing. 2015, In preparation. Chattanooga, Chattanooga, TN, 2011. Robart A.R.; Chan R.T.; Peters J.K.; Rajashankar K.R.; Toor N. Crystal structure of a eukaryotic group II intron lariat. Nature. Campbell, G.E.; Kovach, M.J. Searching for Genetic Control: A 2014, 7521, 193-197. Closer Look at Methylation Patterns and Microsatellites in Colon Cancer, 72nd Annual Meeting of the Association of Chan R.T.; Robart A.R.; Rajashankar K.R.; Pyle A.M.; Toor N. Crystal structure of a group II intron in the pre-catalytic state. Southeastern Biologists, Huntsville, AL; April 2011. Nature Structural & Molecular Biology. 2012, 19, 555–557. 7 MICHELLE CHEN MONICA CHU University of California, San Diego University of California, San Diego Jacobs School of Engineering Division of Biological Sciences Degrees: Degrees: M.S. in Civil and Environmental B.S. in Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Engineering, University of California, Technology Berkeley B.S. in Structural Engineering, University Scholar Sponsor: of California, San Diego ARCS Foundation Endowment Fund Scholar Sponsor: About the Scholar: The Beyster Family Foundation Fund IV Monica’s research aims to understand how the activity of About the Scholar: neurons in the brain changes with experience. She is using a Michelle studies a technology called seismic isolation that cutting-edge technique called in vivo two-photon calcium improves the behavior of buildings during earthquakes and imaging to record the activity of neuronal populations in the protects them from damage. She has conducted a unique mouse olfactory bulb, which is the first relay station of shake table experiment which tested a full scale 5 story olfactory information in the brain. This technique enables her to building fully outfitted with nonstructural equipment (furniture, follow the activity of hundreds of neurons over months in staircase, facade, etc.) and analyzed the building’s seismic awake behaving animals, and allows her to better understand performance with and without the seismic isolators. She has how odor information in the brain is shaped by things like also performed testing of a seismic isolator to further understand its performance characteristics. The goal of her behavioral state or learning. Outside of the lab, Monica enjoys research is to protect buildings and building contents from swimming and crafting. damage in an earthquake event through the use of seismic Benefits to Society: isolation. In her free time, Michelle enjoys outside activities Monica’s research aims to better understand the changes with her puppy. occurring in the brain during learning. Even after we reach Benefits to Society: adulthood, our brains can undergo changes whenever we learn Seismic isolation is an effective technology that can protect something new. One particular type of change is called buildings and building contents from damage during perceptual learning, which occurs with sensory experience. For earthquakes. It is vital for any community that hospitals and example, with experience, parents of twin children can emergency facilities remain fully functional immediately after eventually learn to distinguish between their children using an earthquake, and schools must protect students. Current subtle visual cues. Her research studies this process pertaining building design practices are aimed to save lives but allow to the sense of smell in the mouse. Specifically, she wants to damage in buildings, leading to costly repairs and downtime. understand the changes that occur with perceptual learning in Michelle’s research will help the use of seismic technology an early olfactory area of the brain called the olfactory bulb. grow in the U.S. by filling in important research gaps. Awards and Honors: Awards and Honors: NIH Cellular and Molecular Genetics Training Grant Recipient National Science Foundation Integrative Graduate Research and Publications and Posters: Education Traineeship Kato, H.K.*; Chu, M.W.*; Isaacson, J.S.; Komiyama, T. Dynamic Tau Beta Pi sensory representations in the olfactory bulb: modulation by Publications and Posters: wakefulness and experience. Neuron 2012, 76(5):962-75. Chen, M.; Restrepo, J.I.; Benzoni, G. Performance of a High Kay, J.N.; Chu, M.W.; Sanes, JR. MEGF10 and MEGF11 mediate Damping Rubber Bearing to Multiaxial Excitation. Proceedings of the 14th World Conference on Seismic Isolation, Energy Dissi- homotypic interactions required for mosaic spacing of retinal pation and Active Vibration Control of Structures (14WCSI), 2015. neurons. Nature 2012, 483(7390):465-9. Chen, M.; Pantoli, E.; Wang, X.; Astroza, R.; Ebrahimian, H.; Kay, J.N.; Voinescu, P.E.; Chu, M.W.; Sanes, J.R. Neurod6 Hutchinson, T.; Conte, J.; Restrepo, J.; Marin, C.; Walsh, K.; expression defines new retinal amacrine cell subtypes and Bachman, R.; Hoehler, M.; Englekirk, R.; Faghihi, M. Full-scale regulates their fate. Nat Neurosci 2011, 14(8):965-72 structural and nonstructural building system performance during earthquakes: part I – specimen description, test protocol and structural response. Earthquake Spectra, 2015 (Accepted). Chen, M.; Pantoli, E.; Wang, X.; Astroza, R.; Ebrahimian, H.; Mintz, S.; Hutchinson, T.; Conte, J.; Restrepo, J.; Meacham, B.; Kim, J.; Park, H. BNCS report #1: full-scale structural and nonstructural building system performance during earthquakes and post-earthquake fire - specimen design, construction and test protocol. Structural Systems Research Project Report Series, SSRP 13/9. University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 2013. 8 RIGO CINTRON-COLON DANIEL CUEVAS The Scripps Research Institute San Diego State University Doctoral Program in Chemical and College of Sciences Biological Sciences Degrees: Degrees: B.S. in Computer Science, San Diego B.S. in General Natural Science, State University Universidad del Sagrado Corazon

Scholar Sponsor: Scholar Sponsor: ARCS Foundation Virginia Lynch Grady Endowment About the Scholar: About the Scholar: Core body temperature is an indispensable component for Daniel’s research consists of building mathematical models organismal viability. Core body temperature remains constant representing the metabolic network of bacterial cells. He within a narrow range of variation during normal physiology; obtains the information to build these models by first however, changes to core body temperature could be sequencing the genome of the bacteria. Then, using associated to pathology, affecting organismal health. Rigo’s bioinformatics, he identifies the presence of genes encoding research project aims to investigate the molecular and cellular proteins and enzymes that take part in the cell’s metabolism. mechanisms that mediate thermoregulation, specifically in Using these models, he is able to simulate how a particular brain regions that have been reported to function as the body’s bacterial cell will behave in various environmental conditions; thermostat. Moreover, he aims to elucidate the cellular and for example, conditions containing different food sources. In biochemical mechanism involved in the integration of addition, he can manipulate and test the model in ways that temperature and nutrient homeostasis, as they are the main mimic how scientists alter bacterial cells during real wet-lab regulators of health, aging and metabolism. In his spare time, experiments. Daniel’s other interests include exercising, Rigo enjoys playing beach volleyball, hiking and running. running, playing sports, watching movies, reading science Having a strong interest in helping others, he tries to be literature and tech blogs, listening to a variety of music, as well involved in community outreach activities. as spending time with his wife and family. Benefits to Society: Benefits to Society: Understanding the molecular mechanisms modulating the Models allow scientists to rapidly simulate experiments and integration of nutrient and temperature homeostasis is further understand aspects of their modeled system. With these physiologically relevant to energy homeostasis, which is metabolic models, experiments that are usually costly in time responsible for sustaining life of homeothermic organisms. and money can be simulated within minutes. Metabolic models Reducing calorie intake prolongs lifespan and subsequently, are used widely by research facilities involved in exploiting core body temperature decreases upon calorie intake bacteria, such as in biofuel development and the pharma- reduction. Thus, the molecules regulating core body ceutical industry. These establishments attempt to alter the temperature to calorie intake reduction are potential targets for bacterial cell to produce useful metabolic compounds that can age-related diseases. Furthermore, the findings of Rigo’s ultimately benefit human life in terms of energy and health. research can have an impact in pointing out novel routes to treat metabolic disorders like obesity, and other syndromes Awards and Honors: such as cachexia. 2014 GEN TEN Award from Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology News Publisher (June 2014) Awards and Honors: Graduate S-STEM NSF Scholarship for the past two years Honorable Mention in the 2015 FORD (National Academies) pre- (January 2014) doctoral fellowship program solicitation. 11th Annual Rocky Mountain Bioinformatics Conference poster Academic Excellence Award to the student with the highest winner (December 2013) GPA of 2014 graduating class from Universidad del Sagrado Corazon. Statistical Biomedical Informatics Scholarship (August 2012) NIH New Interdisciplinary Workforce Fellow (July 2009) 2014 Biomedical Sciences Preview Weekend Scholar at University of Minnesota, Twin Cities for prospective highly Publications and Posters: qualified candidates applying to graduate school. Sanchez, S. E.; Cuevas, D. A.; Rostron, J. E.; Liang, T. Y.; Pivaroff, C. G.; Haynes, M. R.; Nulton, J.; Felts, B.; Bailey, B. A.; Salamon, P.; Edwards, R. 2013 Portico Medal award of Universidad del Sagrado Corazon. A.; Burgin, A. B.; Segall, A. M.; Rohwer, F. Phage Phenomics: This faculty-nominated award is given to students that show Physiological Approaches to Characterize Novel Viral Proteins. Journal of leadership and academic excellence during their undergraduate Visualized Experiments: JoVE 2015, No. 100, e52854. studies. Cuevas, D. A.; Garza, D.; Sanchez, S. E.; Rostron, J.; Henry, C. S.; NIH-Blueprint-ENDURE neuroscience research training fellow at Vonstein, V.; Overbeek, R. A.; Segall, A.; Rohwer, F.; Dinsdale, E. A.; Edwards, R. A. F1000Research 2014. University of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras Campus. Lim, Y. W.; Cuevas, D. A.; Silva, G. G. Z.; Aguinaldo, K.; Dinsdale, E. A.; Publications and Posters: Haas, A. F.; Hatay, M.; Sanchez, S. E.; Wegley-Kelly, L.; Dutilh, B. E.; Harkins, T. T.; Lee, C. C.; Tom, W.; Sandin, S. A.; Smith, J. E.; Zgliczynski, Cintron-Colon, R.G.; Vega, I.E. Molecular mechanism of B.; Vermeij, M. J. A.; Rohwer, F.; Edwards, R. A. Sequencing at Sea: Paclitaxel-induced degradation of SCG10: a potential Challenges and Experiences in Ion Torrent PGM Sequencing during the neuropathy biomarker. Presented at Experimental Biology, San 2013 Southern Line Islands Research Expedition. PeerJ 2014, 2, e520. Diego, CA, April 26-30, 2014. Dutilh, B. E.; Thompson, C. C.; Vicente, A. C.; Marin, M. A.; Lee, C.; Silva, G. G.; Schmieder, R.; Andrade, B. G.; Chimetto, L.; Cuevas, D.; Garza, D. Cintron-Colon, R.G.; Vega, I.E. Molecular mechanism of R.; Okeke, I. N.; Aboderin, A. O.; Spangler, J.; Ross, T.; Dinsdale, E. A.; Paclitaxel-induced degradation of SCG10: a potential Thompson, F. L.; Harkins, T.T.; Edwards, R. A. Comparative Genomics of neuropathy biomarker. Presented at Society for Neuroscience, 274 Vibrio Cholerae Genomes Reveals Mobile Functions Structuring San Diego, CA, November 9-13, 2013. Three Niche Dimensions. BMC Genomics 2014, 15 (1), 654. 9 DAVID CURRAN CHRISTOPHER DEBOEVER San Diego State University University of California, San Diego College of Engineering Bioinformatics and Systems Biology Degrees: Degrees: B.A. in Economics Management, Ohio B.S. in Mathematical Biology, Harvey Mudd Wesleyan University College

Scholar Sponsor: Scholar Sponsor: ARCS Foundation The Heller Foundation of San Diego About the Scholar: About the Scholar: David is researching novel techniques for storing thermal Chris uses genomics to study human disease with a focus on energy (heat) in a concentrated solar power application. cancer and stem cell biology. He has studied the role of Concentrated solar power uses a field of mirrors to focus the mutations in the splicing factor SF3B1 in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and investigated how the genomic landscape of sun’s irradiation to a single collector, which can harness that CLL changes as the disease progresses. He is also using energy to generate electricity equivalent to a fossil-fuel based genomic data from a large cohort of induced pluripotent stem power plant. Thermal storage allows us to be able to harness cells and differentiated cardiomyocytes to study the role of the power collected from the sun, even after the sun has gone genetics in human cardiac phenotypes and disease. Besides down. His research involves using phase change metal alloys work, he likes exploring the outdoors, playing guitar, reading, as a storage medium, capable of storing high temperatures for and music. hours after the sun goes down. David is a mountaineer and Benefits to Society: baseball player. The sequencing revolution in biology has provided us with a Benefits to Society: well-documented flood of genomics data. Processing, interpreting, and utilizing these data present unique challenges The Department of Energy’s SunShot Initiative called for a but also offer the ability to study biology at an unprecedented significant decrease in levelized cost of electricity, a measure of level of breadth and depth. Chris’s work is aimed at utilizing installation and operation costs, to promote widespread genomics data to learn about human biology and disease and adoption of concentrated solar power plants. Two ways to translate this knowledge to the clinic to both improve diagnosis reach those goals are raising operating temperatures and and treatment and lower healthcare costs. His work builds implementing thermal storage. David’s research would toward a future where genomic analysis is a cornerstone of medical care. accomplish both goals. If the technology proves valid, concentrated solar power can become a valid alternative for Awards and Honors: fossil fueled power plants while simultaneously using less UC San Diego Research Integrity Student Award water than traditional plants. St. Jude National Graduate Student Symposium Awards and Honors: Best Poster, UCSD Bioinformatics and Systems Biology Dean’s Award for Research- College of Engineering, 2015, San Research Expo (2014) Diego State University Student Research Symposium Best Talk, UCSD Bioinformatics and Systems Biology Research Best Graduate Student Research – 2015, American Society of Expo (2013) Mechanical Engineers, Solar Energy Division Best Poster, UCSD Genetics Training Program Annual Retreat (2013) Jon and Barbara Yellott Award for Best Graduate Research – Publications and Posters: 2015, American Solar Energy Society DeBoever C; Ghia EM; Shepard PJ; Rassenti L; Jepsen K; Publications and Posters: Jamieson CHM; Carson D; Kipps TJ; Frazer KA. Pan-cancer analysis shows SF3B1 mutations cause widespread cryptic 3’ Curran, D. Miller, F. Hunt, A. Carrington, R. “An Evaluation of splice site selection downstream of the branch point. PLoS Containment Materials for High Temperature Metal Thermal Computational Biology. 2015. in press. Storage Sytems.” Paper presented at the Proceedings of ASME Power and Energy Conference, San Diego, CA, June 28- Cheng CP; DeBoever C; Frazer KA; Liu YC; Tseng VS. MiningABs: mining associated biomarkers across multi-connected gene July 2, 2015. expression datasets. BMC Bioinformatics. 2014, 15:173. Doi:10.1186/1471-2105-15-173 DeBoever C; Reid EG; Smith EN; Wang X; Dumaop W; Harismendy O; Carson D; Richman D; Masliah E; Frazer KA. Whole transcriptome sequencing enables discovery and analysis of viruses in archived primary central nervous system lymphomas. PLOS One. 2013; 8(9): e73956. Doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0073956 Barrett CL; DeBoever C; Jepsen K; Saenz CC; Carson DA; Frazer KA. Systematic transcriptome analysis revals tumor-specific isoforms for ovarian cancer diagnosis and therapy. PNAS. 2015; 112(23): E0350-E3057; doi: 10.1073/pnas.1508057112. 10 EDWARD DECHAUMPHAI MIKE DENNY, JR. University of California, San Diego University of California, San Diego Jacobs School of Engineering Division of Physical Sciences Degrees: Degrees: B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, M.S. in Chemistry, University of California, University of Maryland at College Park San Diego B.S. in Chemistry, Villanova University Scholar Sponsor: B.S. in Biochemistry, Villanova University Wally Schirra Memorial Fund Scholar Sponsor: About the Scholar: ARCS Foundation Endowment Fund Edward has two research projects. One is to develop a very About the Scholar: sensitive heat sensor for biomedical applications. He is Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are a class of crystalline developing a microchip platform that monitors the heat porous materials that hold great potential for a variety of real- (metabolic rate) of cells and observes how it changes with world applications ranging from separation to catalysis. The external stimuli such as drugs. This microchip can be used in reason for MOFs’ potential is that their pore dimensions and drug discovery process, bacteria detection, and as a tool in chemical environment can be readily tailored while maintaining biology research. The second project is to understand how heat a rigid, crystalline framework. Despite their promise, industrial behaves differently at a very small scale since overheating is utilization of MOFs remains low due to difficulty in handling the main problem in tiny electronics such as microchips. His and processing raw MOF powders. Utilizing a polymeric binder, research also looks at how to efficiently cool these small Mike has fabricated mixed matrix membranes from a variety of electronic components. He loves to play soccer and badminton. MOFs to allow for easy handling and is investigating these membranes for a variety of liquid and gas purification Benefits to Society: applications. He enjoys surfing, sailing, hiking, camping, and Heat and temperature play a very important role in our daily travel in his spare time. lives. For instance, as electronic devices get smaller, Benefits to Society: overheating is the major bottleneck in devices development. Therefore, having a clearer understanding in micro/nano-scale Mike is investigating the use of membranes for the separation thermal transport is crucial in future electronics. Furthermore, and capture of toxic compounds from air and water. One sensing heat and temperature of biological samples can avenue of this work is focused on removal of pollutants from provide progress to biomedical sciences. The developed water. He can tailor materials selectively to remove microchip calorimeter can be exploited to accelerate drug contaminants like heavy metals. Another aim of his work is to discovery processes, provide faster bacteria detection, and use membranes for removal of toxic chemicals from air for used as a new tool to understand biology. integration into protective gear (gas masks, etc.) for our military and first responders. Awards and Honors: Awards and Honors: CalIT2 fellowship American Chemical Society, Division of Inorganic Chemistry California Research Assistantship Fellowship Travel Award – 250th National Meeting, Aug. 2015 The SUEZ Energy Generation NA Scholarship Chancellor’s Interdisciplinary “Collaboratories” Award, H. Russell Knust Memorial Scholarship University of California, San Diego A. James Clark School of Engineering Scholarship Harold Urey Fellowship (2012-2013), Dept. of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, San Diego Publications and Posters: Dechaumphai, E.; Chen, R. Sub-picowatt resolution calorimetry Publications and Posters: with niobium nitride thin-film thermometer. Review of Scientific Denny, Jr., M. S.; Cohen, S. M. Books of Abstracts, 250th ACS National Meeting, Boston, MA, August 16-20, 2015; American Instruments 2014, 85, 094903. Chemical Society: Washington, DC, 2015; INOR-512. Dechaumphai, E.; Lu, D.; Kan, J. J.; Moon, J.; Fullerton, E. E.; Denny, Jr., M. S.; Cohen, S. M. In Situ Modification of Metal- Liu, Z.; Chen, R. Ultralow thermal conductivity of multilayers Organic Frameworks in Mixed- Matrix Membranes. Angew. Chem. Int. Ed., 2015, 54, 9029-9032. with highly dissimilar Debye temperatures. Nano Letters 2014, 14 (5), 2448-2455. Patterson, J. P.; Abellan, P.; Denny, Jr., M. S.; Park, C.; Browning, N. D.; Cohen, S. M.; Evans, J. E.; Gianneschi, N. C. Observing Dechaumphai, E.; Barton, J. L.; Tesmer, J. R.; Moon, J.; Wang, Y. the Growth of Metal–Organic Frameworks by in Situ Liquid Cell Q.; Tynan, G. R.; Doerner, R. P.; Chen, R. Near-surface thermal Transmission Electron Microscopy. J. Am. Chem. Soc., 2015, 137, 7322–7328. characterization of plasma facing components using the 3- omega method. J. Nucl. Mater. 2014, 455, 56-60. Cao, Y.; Denny, Jr., M. S.; Caspar, J. V.; Farneth, W. E.; Guo, Q.; Ionkin, A. S.; Johnson, L. K.; Lu, M.; Malajovich, I.; Radu, D.; Dechaumphai, E.; Chen, R. Thermal transport in phononic Rosenfeld, H. D.; Roy Choudhury, K.; Wu, W. High-Efficiency Solution-Processed Cu2ZSn(S,Se)4 Thin-Film Solar Cells crystals: the role of zone folding effect. J. Appl. Phys. 2012, 111, Prepared from Binary and Ternary Nanoparticles. J. Am. Chem. 073508. Soc., 2012, 134, 15644–15647. 11 DINNAH DIDULO IGOR FEDEROV University of San Diego University of California, San Diego Hahn School of Nursing and Health Science Jacobs School of Engineering Degrees: Degrees: M.S. in Nursing Education, University of M.S. In Electrical Engineering, University California, San Francisco of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (2014) B.S. in Nursing, San Diego State University B.S. In Electrical Engineering, University A.S. Degree in Nursing, Fresno City College of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (2012) Scholar Sponsor: Scholar Sponsor: Reuben H. Fleet Foundation Fund Reuben H. Fleet Foundation Fund About the Scholar: About the Scholar: Igor’s main interests are using signal processing and machine learning Diabetes is a progressive and chronic disease that can affect techniques to help people with audio-visual tasks. He has been anyone who may be at risk. Early identification of at-risk people working on an active speech “denoising” headset which will enable is crucial in order to provide a plan to manage the effects of people working in harsh audio environments to communicate with this chronic disease. The objectives of Dinnah’s research are to one another. In addition, he has been working on a virtual reality identify barriers that prevent early identification of diabetes in application to allow users to interact with objects in the virtual world. the Filipino population (believed to be a high risk population) In the coming years, he hopes to develop systems which merge audio and to propose solutions to overcome these barriers. Hiking, and video content to enhance communication between people and to biking, and cooking help Dinnah decrease her stress level, so enable hearing in hearing impaired users. His hobbies include playing she can recharge and stay focused on her studies. tennis, volleyball, and hiking. Benefits to Society: Benefits to Society: Dinnah is creating protocols to identify Filipinos who are at Igor’s research aims to help people with audio and visual tasks. His high risk for diabetes. These protocols can serve as a guideline work in speech enhancement will not only allow people to for health care providers to decrease the incidence of communicate in harsh noise environments, but it will also improve cardiovascular disease, blindness, renal failure and limb speech intelligibility in hearing aids for hearing impaired users. amputation caused by delayed diagnosis and cultural barriers. Merging audio and video systems will mimic the way that people The benefit of her research is to decrease the overall cost and actually interact with the world and allow for more robust systems burden of care by proposing early identification and treatment. that can “denoise,” enhance, and/or transcribe speech. This research can serve as a model for other Asian populations from the Western Pacific Region who are at high risk for Awards and Honors: diabetes as well. ECE Departmental Fellowship, University of California, San- Diego (2014) Awards and Honors: Jules D. Falzer Scholarship, University of Illinois at Urbana- Nurse Educator of the Year 2007, Philippine Nurses Association Champaign (2012) of San Diego Grainger Research and Leadership Award, University of Illinois Sigma Theta Tau, Alpha Eta Chapter: UCSF at Urbana-Champaign (2009-2010) Sigma Theta Tau, Zeta Mu: USD Publications and Posters: Dean’s List, Fresno City College Fedorov, I. Kinect depth video compression for action recognition. Master's thesis, University of Illinoit at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Whittier Institute of Diabetes, Scholarship recipient; Diabetes IL, 2014. Educator Khosrowpour, A; Fedorov, I; Holynski, A; Niebles, J.C.; Golparvar- Fard, M. Automated Worker Activity Analysis in Indoor Environments for Direct-Work Rate Improvement from long sequences of RGB-D Images. Construction Research Congress. 2014. Shenoy, P.S. ; Fedorov, I; Neyens, T.; Krein, P.T. Power delivery for series connected voltage domains in digital circuits. International Conference on Energy Aware Computing (ICEAC). 2011, 1-6, IEEE.

12 DANIELLE GROTJAHN DANIELLE HAGSTROM The Scripps Research Institute University of California, San Diego Department of Molecular and Division of Biological Sciences Experimental Medicine; Department of Degrees: Computational and Structural Biology B.S. in Molecular Biology, University of Degrees: California, San Diego B.S in Biology with Honors in Research, B.S in Spanish, University of Wisconsin- Madison Scholar Sponsors: ARCS Foundation, Susan Hoekenga & Edward Gergosian Scholar Sponsor: Reuben H. Fleet Foundation About the Scholar: Danielle is analyzing how low doses of common pesticides damage About the Scholar: the developing brain. The most commonly used pesticides impair an Danielle uses a combination of techniques to visualize important regulator of neurons controlling movement. While low microscopic motor proteins that carry out the important doses of these abundant pesticides do not harm adults, they are function of moving nutrients and signaling molecules to suggested to specifically damage the developing infant brain. Danielle specific destinations within a cell. This transport process is is using flatworms which have remarkable regenerative capabilities particularly important in neurons, where the efficient transport such that after amputation they can regrow a functional brain within 1- of these components along elongated processes is essential for 2 weeks. Using this incredible model system, Danielle is studying neuronal health and function. By studying both the live exactly how these chemicals target the developing brain and what transport and structure of motor proteins and their associated effect that has on behavior. She is very passionate about teaching and cargoes using high-resolution microscopy, she hopes to gain a mentoring students of all ages to get them excited about science. better understanding of the mechanisms that regulate these Outside of science, she enjoys puzzles and playing video games. transport complexes in their native environments. Danielle enjoys outdoor activities such as hiking and camping as well as Benefits to Society: yoga. She also chairs the Network for Women in Science The growing prevalence of childhood neurological diseases has been (NWiS) at The Scripps Research Institute. suggested to be due to the abundance of environmental toxins, Benefits to Society: particularly pesticides. Danielle’s work examines how low doses of these chemicals affect the developing brain. This work will help guide Increasing evidence suggests that impairments to the intracellular the development of more appropriate exposure guidelines and transport machinery contribute to the pathologies associated with preventative therapies. Particularly, flatworms provide a quicker, many neurodegenerative diseases, including Amyotrophic Lateral cheaper and less morally questionable alternative to classical Sclerosis (ALS) and Alzheimer’s disease. Although able to relieve mammalian models allowing for rapid preliminary testing to guide symptoms of disease, no current therapies can prevent the more targeted future studies in mammals. progressive death of neurons in patients suffering from neuro- degenerative disease. Therefore, these studies of motor protein Awards and Honors: regulation will build a vital foundation for the development of NIH Cellular and Molecular Genetics Training Grant Recipient powerful therapeutics that could eventually liberate society from (2014) these devastating diseases. Phi Beta Kappa (2012) Awards and Honors: UCSD Biological Sciences Eureka! Scholarship recipient (2012) National Science Foundation (NSF) Graduate Research UC Regents Scholar (2008-2012) Fellowship The Kellog School for Science and Technology Dean’s Publications and Posters: Fellowship Hagstrom, D.; Cochet-Escartin, O.; Zhang, S.; Khuu, C.; Collins, E-M. S. The Cargill Benevenga Research Fund Scholarship Freshwater Planarians as an Alternative Animal Model for Neuro- toxicology. Toxicol. Sci. 2015, 147 (1), 270-285. The College of Agricultural and Life Sciences Undergraduate Scholarship Hagstrom, D.; Ma, C.; Guha-Polley, S.; Subramani, S. The unique Publications and Posters: degradation pathway of the PTS2 receptor, Pex7, is dependent on the PTS receptor/co-receptor, Pex5 and Pex20. Mol. Biol. Cell. 2014, 25(17), Ge, X., Grotjahn, D., Welch, E., Holguin, C., Lyman-Gingerich, J., 2634-2643. Dimitrova, E., Abrams, E., Marlow, F., Yabe, T., Mullins, M., Pelegri, F. Hecate/Grip2a acts to reorganize the cytoskeleton in Hagstrom, D.; Ma, C. Biochemically characterizing the subcellular the symmetry-breaking event of embryonic axis induction. localization of peroxisomal proteins by fractionation, protease PLoS Genetics. 2014; 10(6): e1004422 protection, and carbonate extraction. In Yeast Protocols; Methods in doi:10.1371/journal.pgen.1004422. Molecular Biology Series 1163; Springer: New York, 2014; pp 175-181 Grotjahn, D., Lander, G.C., Encalada S.E. Ultrastructural Ma, C.; Hagstrom, D.; Guha-Polley, S.; Subramani, S. Redox-regulated Characterization of Motor Protein Conformation and Regulation cargo binding and release by the peroxisomal targeting signal, Pex5. in Neurons; Graduate Student Retreat, The Scripps Research J. Biol. Chem. 2013, 288(38), 27220-31. Institute, Lake Arrowhead, CA.; October 2014.

13 DANIEL HOFF BRYAN HANCOCK University of California San Diego San Diego State University Department of Mathematics San Diego State University and Degrees: University of California San Diego Joint C.Phil. in Mathematics, University of Doctoral Program in Cellular and California, San Diego Molecular BIology Degrees: M.A. in Mathematics, University of California, San Diego B.S. in Biochemistry and Cell Biology, University of California, San Diego B.S. in Mathematics, University of Minnesota, Twin Cities Scholar Sponsor: Reuben H. Fleet Foundation Fund Scholar Sponsor: ARCS Foundation About the Scholar: Bryan’s research is focused on how the human bacterial About the Scholar: pathogen, Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is able to cross the The current focus of Daniel’s research centers on studying blood-brain barrier and induce inflammation leading to rigidity in a class of abstract mathematical objects called von meningitis. Specifically he uses zebrafish to model GBS Neumann algebras, which arose from the study of the physical infections and look at how the disease is able to progress in theory of quantum mechanics. These von Neumann algebras real time. He is using this model as well as immortalized can be constructed from certain other well-studied mathe- vascular brain cells to identify specific host signaling factors matical objects, and rigidity refers to the extent to which the that are activated in response to GBS infection. The goal of this associated von Neumann algebra “remembers” the original research is to understand what protein and signaling pathways object. In some cases, the von Neumann algebra completely are activated in human vascular brain cells that enable GBS to “remembers” the original object, while in others, it completely cross the blood-brain barrier and cause disease. Bryan enjoys “forgets.” Daniel enjoys running, swimming, backpacking, and spending time with his kids as well as comic books, local many other outdoor activities. music, and craft cocktails. Benefits to Society: Benefits to Society: By identifying specific host proteins that are activated in response Theoretical physics provides the original motivation for the study to GBS infection, Bryan hopes to describe the pathway by which of von Neumann algebras as they arose from the study of GBS is able to gain entry into, and thus infect human cells. This quantum mechanics. The implications (such as technological research will lead to a better understanding of GBS pathogenicity innovations) of any physical theory built upon von Neumann that will in effect add to our knowledge of this human pathogen. algebras would depend upon our mathematical understanding of The overarching goal of this work is to identify steps in the their properties. However, this is just one possible direction of infection cycle that could potentially be inhibited to reduce the risk societal benefit; as usual with mathematics research, the most of disease. important consequences of this mathematical foundation may be Awards and Honors: discovered far in the future. 29th Annual California State University Student Research Awards and Honors: Competition, Biological and Agricultural Sciences Award: National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship selected #1 overall in biology. James B. Ax Fellowship San Diego State University Student Research Symposium President’s Award: One of the 10 recipients who went on to Publications and Posters: present at the 29th Annual CSU Research Competition. Hoff, D.J. Von Neumann Algebras of Equivalence Relations with Sharp/Reese-Steely, SDSU Heart Institute Fellowship, an annual $8,333 award Nontrivial One-Cohomology. submitted, preprint arXiv:1506.00588. 2015. American Society for Microbiology Travel Grant, enabling travel to ASM General Meeting 2015 in New Orleans to present research. Hoff, D.J., Olver, P.J. Automatic Solution of Jigsaw Puzzles. J. Southern California Branch of American Society for Microbiology Math. Imaging Vision. 2014, 49 (1), 234-250. (SCASM) Poster Award, covering travel to ASM General Meeting 2015 in New Orleans. Hoff, D.J., Olver, P.J. Extensions of Invariant Signatures for Object Recognition. J. Math. Imaging Vision. 2013, 45 (2), 176- Publications and Posters: 185. Kim, B. J.; Hancock, B. M.; Bermudez, A.; Del Cid, N.; Reyes, E.; van Sorge, N. M.; Lauth, X.; Smurthwaite, C. A.; Hilton, B. J.; Stotland, A.; Hoff, D.J., Johnson, C. R., Nasserasr, S. Totally Positive Shapes Banerjee, A.; Buchanan, J.; Wolkowicz, R.; Traver, D.; Doran, K. S., and TPk-Completable Patterns. Linear Algebra Appl. 2012, 436 Bacterial induction of Snail1 contributes to blood-brain barrier disruption. J Clin Invest 2015, 125 (6), 2473-83; (b) (12), 4412-4422. Kim, B. J.; Hancock, B. M.; Del Cid, N.; Bermudez, A.; Traver, D.; Doran, K. S., Streptococcus agalactiae infection in zebrafish larvae. Microb Pathog 2015, 79, 57-60. Hancock, B. M., Group B Streptococcus induces the host transcriptional factor, Snail1, to penetrate the blood-brain-barrier. American Society for Microbiology 115th General Meeting. 2015. New Orleans, LA. Hancock B.M., Development of Zebrafish Models of Streptococcal Infection to Examine Host Pathogen Interactions and Disease Progression. International Conference on Gram Positive Pathogens. 2014. Omaha, NE.

14 LAUREN HOFFMAN EIREN JACOBSON University of San Diego University of California, San Diego Shiley-Marcos School of Engineering Scripps Institution of Oceanography Degrees: M.S. in Oceanography, University of California, San Diego B.A. in Environmental Biology, Columbia College, Columbia University in the City of Scholar Sponsor: New York WD-40 Company Scholar Sponsor: About the Scholar: Kenneth and Marjorie Blanchard Last January Lauren traveled to the Dominican Republic with a group About the Scholar: of engineering students from USD with the goal of installing chlorinators for drinking water sanitation and fuel-efficient stoves in Eiren is broadly interested in quantitative approaches to whale, dolphin, and porpoise population studies using innovative the community of El Cercado. Upon returning to San Diego, she took techniques and technologies. Her doctoral dissertation project is on the project of designing a hot water shower for the community. Her to develop new methods for monitoring harbor porpoise objective was to create a passive solar heating system that could raise populations in California. Harbor porpoise populations are water temperature to 100ºF. After online research, she built two currently monitored using aerial surveys; however, these surveys different prototypes and has been testing variations of each in order to are dangerous, expensive, and weather-dependent. Because develop a design that maximizes efficiency while minimizing cost. harbor porpoises produce echolocation clicks in order to navigate and to forage, they can also be studied using Outside of school, Lauren surfs and plays the violin. underwater microphones called hydrophones. For her Benefits to Society: dissertation, she is working to assess the feasibility of using hydrophone networks for long-term monitoring of harbor During her visit in El Cercado, she discovered the community had a porpoise populations in California. Eiren enjoys hiking, rock desire for implementation of hot water showers, not only to serve as a climbing, running, cooking, and reading in her spare time. luxury, but also to help with medical issues. A group of nurses Benefits to Society: traveling with her group verified that bathing in cold water can lead to worsening illness as energy is drained from the body. It also is a hope Eiren collaborates closely with scientists at the National Oceanic and that having hot showers will increase sanitation and prevent illness in Atmospheric Administration to ensure that her research objectives are directly relevant to the management and conservation of harbor the first place, as community members will be more likely to wash porpoises. By providing an effective tool for monitoring harbor each day. porpoise populations over time, her research will allow Awards and Honors: anthropogenic threats to the harbor porpoise, including pollution, noise, and fishery interactions, to be quickly recognized and Alcala Award – Annual merit scholarship from University of addressed, thereby aiding in long-term conservation efforts. San Diego. Additionally, her research will improve the efficiency of harbor Dean’s List, First Honors – Excellent academic standing, with porpoise monitoring, resulting in higher-quality data, using safer GPA above 3.5 for Fall 2011 and Fall 2012 – Spring 2015 and less-expensive methods. semesters. Awards and Honors: E. W. Fager Award for Outstanding Contributions to Quantitative Education at SIO (2015) Mia J.Tegner Memorial Fellowship in Coastal Ecology (2015) National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship (2012) National Science Foundation Integrative Graduate Education and ResearchTraineeship (2012) National Merit Scholarship (2006) Publications and Posters: Jacobson, E. K.; Yack, T. M.; Barlow, J. Evaluation of an automated acoustic beaked whale detection algorithm using multiple validation and assessment methods; NOAA-TM-NMFS- SWFSC-509; SWFSC: La Jolla, CA, 2013. Jacobson, E. K.; Forney, K. A.; Harvey, J. T. Acoustic evidence that harbor porpoises (Phocoena phocoena) avoid bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus). Marine Mammal Science 2015, 31, 386-397. Jacobson, E. K.; Forney, K. A.; Harvey, J. T. Evaluation of a passive acoustic monitoring network for harbor porpoise in California; CEC-500-2015-XXX; CEC: Sacramento, CA, In Press. Jacobson, E. K.; Forney, K. A.; Barlow, J. Paired survey parameter estimation: Using visual survey data to estimate passive acoustic detection parameters for harbor porpoise abundance estimates. In Preparation. 15 DAISY JOHNSON MAGGIE JOHNSON The Scripps Research Institute University of California San Diego Kellogg School of Science and Technology Scripps Institution of Oceanography Degrees: Degrees: M.S. in Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M M.S. in Biology, California State University University, Northridge B.S. in Biological Sciences, Cornell Univ. Professional M.S. in Marine Biology, Northeastern University Scholar Sponsors: B.A. in Biology, Colby College Webster and Helen Kinnaird/Paul Bechtner Scholar Sponsors: About the Scholar: Carlos and Sharon Arbelaez The Havran lab has identified protein interactions that are important for normal wound healing to occur and which are dampened in the About the Scholar: tissue surrounding chronic wounds. The goal of Daisy’s project is to Maggie is interested in understanding how coral reefs will be manipulate these protein interactions for therapeutic benefit. They are impacted by changing ocean acidity due to increasing collaborating with the Finn Lab at Georgia Tech to contain these atmospheric carbon dioxide, a process known as ocean acidification. For her dissertation research she is conducting a proteins in hydrogels with finely tuned release rates (from minutes to series of experiments to test the effect of carbon dioxide on coral months) that will allow treatment over a specific period of time. Using reef seaweeds. In healthy reef systems, or those not impacted by this method of product release, she will evaluate the ability of these pollution and overfishing, reef seaweeds are an important source proteins to improve wound repair in vitro and in vivo. Daisy’s of food and energy for coral reef organisms. The objectives of interests outside of the lab include cross-country skiing, hiking, and her research are: 1) to understand how changing ocean riding horses. chemistry due to increasing carbon dioxide emissions affects coral reef seaweeds, and 2) to understand the role seaweeds Benefits to Society: may play in mediating the effects of increasing carbon dioxide on other reef organisms. SCUBA diving, gardening, painting and Chronic wounds, such as pressure sores in elderly patients and foot silkscreening are among Maggie’s outside interests. ulcers in diabetic patients, are an increasing problem. Currently treatment options are limited and often involve debridement Benefits to Society: (removing non-healing tissue from around the edges of the wound). The goal of Maggie’s research is to quantify the impacts of ocean Any therapeutic benefit shown through this project would be acidification on critical foundation species on coral reefs. The data potentially useful in treating non-healing wounds. Additionally, the will provide information on the extent that ocean acidification has development, with the Finn lab, of a delivery system for treating skin positive, negative or no effect on a variety of coral reef seaweeds, and on how ocean acidification impacts growth rates, lesions over variable time frames has clinical and scientific photosynthesis and organic and inorganic production by seaweeds. applications. The potential benefits to society will be in how this information is Awards and Honors: relayed to the parties responsible for policy and management decisions on coral reefs. By identifying species or even genera that Lechner Scholar, Texas A&M University are threatened by ocean acidification, information can be provided Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine Graduate Student to conservation managers that inform local management strategies, ResearchTrainee Award ultimately working toward healthy, surviving coral reefs. Healthy coral reefs mean more money, jobs and food for coastal nations that Publications and Posters: rely directly on coral reef resources. Steelman, S.M; Johnson, D; Wagner, B.; Stokes, A.; Chowdhary, B.P. Awards and Honors: Cellular and Humoral Immunity in Chronic Equine Laminitis. Vet. Edna Bailey Sussman Foundation Award Immunol. Immunopathol. 2013, 153, 217-226. Scripps Institution of Oceanography, Graduate Student Excellence Award Rasmann, S.; Johnson, M.D.; Agrawal, A.A. Induced responses to International Women in Fishing Association Scholarship Herbivory and Jasmonate in Three Milkweed Species. J. Chem. Ecol. Outstanding Graduate Research Award, California State University, Northridge Department of Biology 2009, 35, 1326-1334. Sally Casanova California Pre-Doctoral Award, California State University, Northridge Publications and Posters: Johnson, M. D.; Price, N. N.; Smith, J. E. Contrasting effects of ocean acidification on tropical fleshy and calcareous algae. PeerJ. 2014, 2, e411, http://dx.doi.org/10.7717/peerj.411. Johnson, M. D.; Moriarty, V. W.; Carpenter R. C. Acclimatization of the crustose coralline alga Porolithon onkodes to variable pCO2. PloS One. 2014, 9, e87678. Williams, G. J.; Price, N. N.; Ushijima, B.; Aeby, G. S.; Callahan, S.; Davy, S. K.; Gove, J. M.; Johnson, M. D.; Knapp, I. S.; Shore-Maggio, A.; Smith, J. E.; Videau, P.; Work, T. M. Ocean warming and acidification have complex interactive effects on the dynamics of a marine fungal disease. Proc. R. Soc., B, 2014, 281, 20133069. Johnson, M. D.; Carpenter, R. C. Ocean acidification and warming decrease calcification in the crustose coralline alga Hydrolithon onkodes and increase susceptibility to grazing. J. Exp. Mar. Biol. Ecol. 2012, 434, 94-101. 16 DEANNA JOHNSTON TREVOR JOYCE University of San Diego University of California, San Diego Hahn School of Nursing and Health Scripps Institution of Oceanography Sciences Degrees: Degrees: B.S. in Biology, University of Alaska M.S. in Nursing, San Diego State Southeast University, San Diego, CA B.S. in Nursing, San Jose State Scholar Sponsor: University, San Jose, CA Virginia Lynch Grady Endowment Scholar Sponsor: About the Scholar: Hervey Family Non-Endowment Fund Many tropical seabirds hunt and scavenge prey in a close association About the Scholar: with tunas and dolphins. These predators corral prey and force it to Deanna plans to conduct research related to utilizing Palliative the surface making it available to seabirds. Intensifying industrial Care for chronically ill patients from the Hispanic or Latino harvests of yellow-fin and skipjack tunas as well as the depletion of patient population. The Hispanic and Latino populations have dolphin stocks in the tropical Eastern Pacific Ocean over the last 50 a cultural view that an illness is not to be talked about, years have potentially disrupted this relationship. Trevor’s dissertation preventing these populations from receiving the best care. research uses several unique datasets of seabird observations from Palliative Care has often been mistaken for Hospice or end-of- research vessels over the last thirty years to document changes in the life care. Now, the emphasis for Palliative Care has reverted abundance, composition, and size of seabird flocks and populations in back to its roots as a resource for any patient with an relation to the tuna harvest levels and climatic variability.Trevor enjoys incurable, chronic illness. Palliative Care consists of a team of photographing landscapes and wildlife and learning about the natural nurses, physicians, social workers, chaplains and other history of his surroundings. Living and working near the beach affords members to ensure that all patients, no matter their disease him the chance to surf and mountain bike. stage, have the resources available to maintain a good quality Benefits to Society: of life. Deanna enjoys reading, teaching, traveling, being anywhere near the ocean, sewing and spending as much time Seabirds often play important but overlooked roles in ecosystems and provide frequently underappreciated benefits to people. Trevor’s as she can with her family. research focuses on understanding the conservation status and Benefits to Society: vulnerability of many tropical seabirds to human changes in marine Deanna’s proposed research would greatly improve the health environments. Through these efforts he hopes to maintain their value outcomes of the Hispanic and Latino populations as well as to people such as recreational and artisanal fishermen who rely on decrease the length of stay and readmissions for patients with tropical seabirds to find fish schools, a role that holds great cultural chronic illnesses. She believes that this research will be significance to many Pacific Island peoples. Finally, seabirds also provide a unique way of measuring long-term ecosystem health. translatable to other patient populations and keep more patients out of the hospital. This decrease in hospitalizations Awards and Honors: will help the ED care for patients who truly need the emergency National Science Foundation, Graduate Research Fellowship care as well as keep patients at home with their families. Michael Mullin Fellowship Awards and Honors: Pacific Seabird Group, Best Student Poster Award, 39th Pacific Seabird Group Annual Meeting Sharp Healthcare - Center of Nursing Excellence Award for designating two Progressive Care Units as specialty units. Data Research Corporation of the University of Hawaii, Outstanding showed that by designating one Progressive Care unit as a Employee of the Year Award Stroke Specialty Unit and the other as a Pre/Post Open Heart National Science Foundation, Research Experience for Surgery Progressive Care, the care of patients greatly improved Undergraduates and patients stayed in the hospital less time. Publications and Posters: Sharp Healthcare - Center of Nursing Excellence Award for Joyce, T.W.; Eifler, D.A.; Powell, R.D. Variable habitat use influences the obtaining Gold Status for Core Measures in Stroke Care. mating system of a Lesser Antillean anole. Amphibia-Reptilia 2010, 31, 395-401. Joyce T.W. Abundance estimates of the Hawaiian Petrel (Pterodroma sandwichensis) and Newell’s Shearwater (Puffinus newelli) based on data collected at sea, 1998-2011. Technical Report to U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 2013. Joyce, T.W.; Ballance L.T. Model-based abundance estimates of the Hawaiian Petrel (Pterodroma sandwichensis) and Newell’s Shearwater (Puffinus newelli) based on data collected at sea, 1998-2011. Pacific Seabird Group Annual Meeting, Portland, OR, Feb. 20-24, 2013. Joyce, T.W.; Holmes, N.D.; Ballance L.T. Breeding season marine distribution and spatial habitat use of the Newell’s shearwater from Kauai, Hawaii. Poster Presentation. Pacific Seabird Group Annual Meeting, Turtle Bay, HI, Feb. 7-11, 2012. 17 ASHOK KODIGALA ADITYA KUMAR University of California, San Diego University of California, San Diego Jacobs School of Engineering Jacobs School of Engineering Degrees: Degrees: M.S. in Electrical and Computer B.S. in Bioengineering, Rice University Engineering (Electronics & Photonics), University of California, Santa Barbara B.S. in Electrical Engineering, University of California, Santa Barbara Scholar Sponsors: Scholar Sponsor: Roche/ARCS Foundation Scholar Award Ellen Browning Scripps Foundation About the Scholar: About the Scholar: Aditya is working on the development of a novel "disease-in-a- dish" niche which mirrors the dynamic extracellular changes Ashok is exploring the physics of localized plasmonic that occur during myocardial infarction (MI). This niche will be resonances in metals at nanoscale dimensions to ultimately used to identify novel pathways that could result in potential develop an optical biosensor for quick on-chip pathogen therapeutic solutions for the treatment and prevention of MI. In detection. Plasmonic particles’ small size makes them ideally addition, Aditya is culturing patient-specific induced pluripotent suited for sensing at the molecular scale with a high degree of stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes on this niche to better assess sensitivity. Concurrently, he also is working on designing high potential genetic susceptibility toward MI. Outside of lab, quality (high-Q) factor optical cavities using semiconductor Aditya enjoys exercising and playing basketball. materials (ex. InGaAs) to serve as laser sources in the near infrared (IR) regime. The higher the quality factor, the more Benefits to Society: power efficient is the laser. In his spare time, Ashok enjoys Myocardial infarction represents the leading cause of death in road biking and various beach activities. the United States. Therapeutic treatments are limited due to the Benefits to Society: inability to replicate the environmental changes associated with MI progression, namely the dynamic increase in stiffness of the Plasmonic sensors have the potential for numerous infarcted tissue compared to the surrounding healthy tissue. applications in the field of medicine and life sciences such as The development of this novel biological substrate, coupled the prevention of pathogen dissemination. The ability to quickly with stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes, allows for better (lab-on-chip) and effectively (high sensitivity) identify understanding of altered cellular behavior in response to MI pathogens will serve as a superior barrier against their progression in addition to providing a platform for drug testing. spread. This research on plasmonic sensors will directly contribute to the healthcare industry in the form of a low-cost Awards and Honors: diagnostic and prevention tool. These sensors can be tailored to National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship detect other elements such as air-borne toxins, pesticides, Distinction in Research and Creative Works, Rice University water contaminants, etc.. Publications and Posters: Awards and Honors: Wiltz, D. W.; Han, R. I.; Wilson, R. L.; Kumar, A.; Morrisett, J. D.; ECE Graduate Student Fellowship, UC San Diego Grande-Allen, K. J. Differential Aortic and Mitral Valve Steve Leung Memorial Engineering Scholarship, UC Santa Interstitial Cell Mineralization and the Induction of Barbara Mineralization by Lysophosphatidylcholine In Vitro. Cardiovasc. Publications and Posters: Eng. Technol. 2014, 5(4), 371-383. Kodigala, A.; Lepetit, T.; Kanté, B. Engineering Resonance Kumar, A.; Wiltz, D. W.; Grande-Allen, K. J. Gentamicin Reduces Dynamics of Plasmon Hybridized Systems. J. Appl. Phys. 2015, Calcific Nodule Formation by Aortic Valve Interstitial Cells In 117, 023110. Vitro. Cardiovasc. Eng. Technol. 2013, 4(1), 16-25. Lepetit, T.; Gu, Q., Kodigala, A.; Bahari, B.; Fainman, Y.; Kanté, B. Kumar, A.; Wiltz, D. W.; Grande-Allen, K. J. In Vitro Modeling of Resonantly Trapped Bound State in the Continuum Laser. arXiv the Effect of Gentamicin on Aortic Valve Interstitial Cell Calcifi- [Online] 2015, 1508.05164. cation. Tissue Engineering & Regenerative Medicine International Society Conference, Houston, TX. December 12, 2011. Chen, A.; Kodigala, A.; Lepetit, T.; Kanté, B. Multipoles of even/odd split-ring resonators. Photonics 2015, 2, 883-892. Kodigala, A.; Lepetit, T.; Kanté, B. Controlling Resonances via near-field interactions in Plasmonics. Materials Research Society (MRS) Conference Spring, San Francisco, CA; April 8, 2015.

18 DAVID LEON MONIQUE A. LINEBACK University of California, San Diego University of San Diego Center for Astrophysics and Space Sciences Hahn School of Nursing and Health Science Degrees: Degrees: M.S. in Physics, University of California, M.S.N. in Nursing, University of San Diego San Diego A.D.N. in Nursing, Palomar College, B.S. in Physics, California Institute of San Marcos Technology B.A. in Critical Gender Studies, University Scholar Sponsor: of California, San Diego Virginia Lynch Grady Endowment Scholar Sponsor: About the Scholar: The Beyster Family Foundation Fund IV David’s research group is part of the Polarbear collaboration. It About the Scholar: studies the Cosmic Microwave Background, which is light from Monique’s goal is to identify strategies that will promote health the early universe that was first emitted when the universe in vulnerable populations. Her experience with her own family cooled enough to form Hydrogen atoms. This light travels has reinforced the importance of the role of mothers in through the universe, mostly unperturbed, until detected in the promoting the health of their children through diet, exercise, present day by a telescope in the Atacama Desert in Chile. other positive health practices and family support. However, David is currently analyzing polarization data from the first two many women are unaware of these health practices and lack years of observations to determine the amount of gravitational access to information regarding health promotion strategies. lensing that this light has experienced as it passed through Her research aim is to increase women’s’ awareness of the space to reach us. David enjoys writing fiction/poetry, archery, importance of positive health practices to improve health badminton, and travel. outcomes for themselves and their families. She is in the process of refining her research focus and developing the Benefits to Society: conceptual framework and specific identifying variables Researching the Cosmic Microwave Background is a promising appropriate for this research focus. Her experience as a nurse area for insights into fundamental physics. Analysis of in the critical care unit has increased her awareness of the need gravitational lensing using next-gen instruments could for developing a healthy lifestyle and preventing chronic illness determine the neutrino mass hierarchy, a longstanding problem or mediating the negative effects of such illnesses when in fundamental particle physics. Detection of B-mode possible; however, many women face barriers to achieving a polarization would be a smoking gun for inflation, the leading healthy lifestyle for themselves and their families. These can be theory of physics right after the big bang; not even the LHC can socioeconomic factors, lack of education, environmental risk- probe energies at this scale. Finally, detection of polarization factors, and/or lack of access to health care. Monique intends to rotation could provide clues on exotic Lorentz violating physics. focus on women with HIV who are experiencing health disparities, identify barriers to achieving healthy outcomes and Awards and Honors: develop strategies that can improve the health of these women Caltech President's Scholarship and their families. UCSD Physics Excellence Award Benefits to Society: Attended OSG User School at UW-Madison Women are the major health brokers of their families in terms of life-style, eating habits, stress reduction and other factors of daily living; however, many women continue to experience barriers to obtaining information regarding lifestyle changes that could improve health outcomes as well as limited access to health care. Although there is a significant body of research related to health promotion and behavior change, it frequently does not address the unique needs of women who may be disadvantaged by race, ethnicity, sociocultural factors, economic status or other factors that increase health disparities. If these barriers could be identified for a specific group of women, then more effective strategies for health promotion interventions could be developed and evaluated for effectiveness. Awards and Honors: Nurse Traineeship Award Nurse Faculty Loan Forgiveness Program Award

19 SEAN MADDOX PAUL MAIER San Diego State University San Diego State University College of Sciences Joint Doctoral Program in Evolutionary Degrees: Biology, College of Sciences B.S. in Chemistry, University of California, Degrees: Davis B.S. in Ecology, Evolution, and Aquatic Biology, University of California, Santa Barbara Scholar Sponsor: Scholar Sponsor: Dottie Georgens Thomas C. Ackerman Foundation About the Scholar: About the Scholar: Sean’s research aims to discover new transformations in The overarching goal of Paul’s dissertation research is to organic chemistry that can be used to aid in the discovery of understand the interfacing roles of migration, adaptation, and potent drugs for the treatment of disease. He is currently plasticity in shaping the persistence of natural populations. Specifically, he is interested in developing novel network- studying different methods of inserting chlorine atoms into analytical Yosemite Toad tools to model the evolution of drug scaffolds. The addition of chlorine into these small amphibians across isolated alpine meadows. His research molecules can have a large effect on the molecule’s structure as objectives include two themes. First, he will apply these novel well as its electronic properties. This transformation also is models in a conservation genetic framework to assist in used to structurally rigidify promiscuous small molecule drugs mitigation in species recovery plans. Secondly, he will elucidate to increase their potency and possibly decrease unwanted side evolutionary genomic features of ecological specialists. His effects. When not in the lab, Sean enjoys golf. thesis will explore the hypothesis that ecological specialists and Benefits to Society: generalists mount different evolutionary responses to the same selection pressures. Paul enjoys endurance sports (e.g. Sean’s research is fundamentally entrenched in the field of drug running, cycling, rowing), mountaineering, aviation, drumming, design. The discoveries from his lab show promise toward the herpetology, macro photography, and martial arts. design of more selective kinase inhibitors, which are not very Benefits to Society: selective toward their respective targets, many often inhibiting Landscape genetics is the study of environmentally mediated 30 or more kinases. Being one of the first to utilize Lewis base evolution, including connectivity, population persistence, local catalyzed chlorination, Sean aims to thoroughly study the adaptation, and genetic rescue. Paul’s research will bear on the mechanistic principles of this catalysis to allow this chemistry evolutionary history and future of the Yosemite Toad (Anaxyrus to be easily implemented into any research laboratory. canorus), and his results will have significant utility for prioritizing the future management and conservation of this Publications and Posters: iconic California native. Additionally, our understanding of how Maddox, S. M.; Nalbandian, C. J.; Smith, D. E.; Gustafson, J. L. ecological specialists evolve will help prioritize translocations, A Practical Lewis Base Catalyzed Electrophilic Chlorination of assisted migration, and captive breeding programs for many Arenes and Heterocycles. Org. Lett. 2015, 17, 1042. species worldwide. Luca, O. R.; Gustafson, J. L.; Maddox, S. M.; Fenwick, A. Q.; Awards and Honors: Smith, D. C. Catalysis by electrons and holes: formal potential Jordan D. Covin Memorial Scholarship scales and preparative organic electrochemistry. Org. Chem. Harold & June Grant Memorial Scholarship Front. 2015, 2, 823. USGS Conservation Genetics Assistantship Eugene Cota-Robles Fellowship Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi Publications and Posters: Maier P; Ostoja S.; Vandergast A.; Aguilar A.; Bohonak A.; A Novel Genetic Network Model Predicts Range Shifts in Response to Climate Change for Yosemite Toads (Anaxyrus [Bufo] canorus). Mol. Ecol. 2015, in prep. Ostoja S.; Matchett J.; McKenny H.; Brooks M.; Berlow E.; Knapp R.; Maier P.; Danielle N. Yosemite Toad (Anaxyrus [Bufo] canorus) Breeding Occupancy of Meadows in Yosemite and Kings Canyon National Parks, California. Herp. Con. Bio. 2015, in prep. Klinger R.; Cleaver M.; Anderson S.; Maier P.; Clark J. Implications of Scale-independent Habitat Specialization on Persistence of a Rare Small Mammal. Global Ecol. Con. 2015, 3, 100-114. Rosso A.; Maier P.; Ostoja S.; Aguilar A. Conservation Genetics of Yosemite Toads in Sequoia Kings National Park, UC Merced, Merced, CA.

20 FREDERICK MATSUDA MEGAN MONSANTO University of California, San Diego Joint Doctoral Program at San Diego State Center for Astrophysics and Space Sciences University and University of California, Degrees: San Diego B.A. in Astrophysics, B.A. in Physics, Cell and Molecular Biology Program University of California, Berkeley Degrees: B.S. in Genetics, Clemson University

Scholar Sponsors: Scholar Sponsor: ARCS Foundation/Karen & Bob Bowden Hervey Family Non-Endowment Fund About the Scholar: About the Scholar: Frederick is researching the physics of the early universe Megan joined Dr. Mark Sussman’s research laboratory where through observing remnant light left over from the Big Bang. work focuses on cardiac stem cells in hope of treating patients He is a member of the POLARBEAR experiment and has helped with heart disease. Her graduate project involves isolating develop a radio telescope located in San Pedro de Atacama, novel stem cells from the human heart with the idea of Chile. With this telescope, he is researching to detect a combining these distinct stem cells in a defined manner to polarized signal that can potentially be the strongest evidence construct a three-dimensional structure that has been termed a or proof of a widely accepted and mainstream theory of the “CardioCluster”. The belief is that by rationally creating a beginning of our universe, the Big Bang theory. When not structure that incorporates the potential provided by each of stargazing, Frederick likes cooking and wine. these stem cells, CardioClusters will improve regeneration of Benefits to Society: damaged heart tissue above and beyond anything currently seen in the cardiac field. Megan loves to be outdoors - hiking, Frederick’s research will further the understanding of the fishing, snorkeling, and spending time with her dog. She also origins of the universe. This research will influence and give enjoys woodcarving as well as drawing and painting. rise to further research not only in cosmology but also in many other physics fields. Inflationary cosmology involves all Benefits to Society: fundamental physics such as general relativity, quantum Current limitations with cardiac stem cell therapy include poor mechanics, and statistical mechanics. Understanding the Big engraftment and low survival rates, leading to loss of cell-to- Bang allows us to further enhance and develop the theories of cell communication. Megan’s graduate project addresses these all fundamental physics, which in turn influence technological challenges by creating what are termed CardioClusters. By advancement as well. combining three diverse stem cells populations to create a Awards and Honors: CardioCluster, the overall structure is larger and allows for direct cell contact. The hope is that CardioClusters will enhance Inamori Fellowship cellular communication and regenerative capacity compared to UCSD Graduate Research Fellowship current single, stem cell-based therapies. UCSD Physics Excellence Award Awards and Honors: Undergraduate Research Apprentice Program Summer NIH-R01 Co-investigator “Enhanced Myocardial Repair with Employment Award CardioClusters and CardioChimeras" Publications and Posters: AHA Cardiovascular Disease Student Scholarship POLARBEAR Collaboration. Measurement of the Cosmic Microwave Gordon Conference Best Graduate Student Poster Award Background Polarization Lensing Power Spectrum with the POLARBEAR CSUPERB Travel Award Experiment. Physical Review Letters. July 2014, 113, 021301. Biology Department Outstanding Graduate Teaching Assistant POLARBEAR Collaboration. A Measurement of the Cosmic Microwave Publications and Posters: Background B-Mode Polarization Power Spectrum at Sub-Degree Monsanto, M.; Sussman, M.A. Myocardial Infarct Scar: Hunting Down Scales with POLARBEAR. The Astrophysical Journal. October 2014, the Responsible Cells, But Then What? J Am Coll Cardiol. 2015, 794, 171. 65(19):2067-2069. POLARBEAR Collaboration. Evidence for Gravitational Lensing of the Samse, K.; Emathinger, J.; Hariharan, N.; Quijada, P.; Völkers, M.; Ormachea L, De La Torre, A.; Alvarez, R.; Din, S.; Mohsin, S.; Monsanto, Cosmic Microwave Background Polarization from Cross-Correlation M.; Fischer, KM.; Dembitsky, W.P.; and Sussman, M.A. Functional effect with the Cosmic Infrared Background. Physical Review Letters. April of Pim1 depends upon intracellular localization in human cardiac 2014, 112, 131302. progenitor cells. J Biol Chem. 2015, 290(22):13935-47. T.Tomaru et al. The POLARBEAR-2 Experiment. Millimeter, Hariharan, N.; Quijada, P.; Mohsin, S.; Joyo, A.Y.; Samse, K.M.; Monsanto, M.; De La Torre, A.; Avitabile, D.; Ormachea, L.; McGregor, Submillimeter, and Far-Infrared Detectors and Instrumentation for M.J.; Tsai, E.; Sussman, M.A. Nucleostemin rejuvenates cardiac Astronomy VI. Proc. SPIE 8452. progenitor cells and antagonizes myocardial aging. J Am Coll Cardiol. 2015, 65(2):133-47. Mohsin, S.; Khan, M.; Nguyen, J.; Alkatib, M.; Siddiqi, S.; Hariharan, N.; Wallach, K.; Monsanto, M.; Gude, N.A.; Dembitsky, W.P.; Sussman, M.A. Rejuvenation of Human Cardiac Progenitor Cells with Pim-1 Kinase. Circ Res. 2013, 113(10):1169-79.

21 TIM MONTGOMERY STEVEN NALEWAY San Diego State University University of California, San Diego College of Sciences Materials Science and Engineering Degrees: Program, Jacobs School of Engineering B.S. in Chemistry, The College of William Degrees: and Mary M.S. in Materials Science, Oregon State University B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Oregon Scholar Sponsor: State University Tyler & Diane Miller Scholar Sponsor: About the Scholar: Legler Benbough Foundation Tim’s current research focuses on developing new chemical About the Scholar: methodologies and their application toward more efficient, economic, and “greener” synthetic routes of natural product Steven’s research focuses upon understanding and taking compounds. He is currently using new copper methodology to inspiration from nature in the form of the interconnected fields help aid in synthesizing the natural product azaspirene. of biological materials science and bioinspired design. Through Azaspirene is an angiogenesis inhibitor that is shown to inhibit biological materials science, he studies the unusual armor of blood vessel growth in tumors without effecting normal cells in the boxfish, which unlike many fish, defends itself with a rigid the body. Combined with the low toxicity of this compound, it carapace of scutes that feature a complex layered arrangement is a perfect candidate as a new and milder anti-cancer drug. of protein fibers and a rigid mineral plate. Through bioinspired The end goal is to produce ample amounts of these design, he creates designs like the layered structure of the compounds for aid in drug development studies. Tim’s hobbies boxfish using a method called freeze casting. Through this include surfing, fishing and playing the drums. method he can create composites that can be employed for structural or biomedical applications. Stephen enjoys spending Benefits to Society: time with his wife and two dogs as well as relaxing at the La Tim’s research benefits society by supporting efficient, Jolla Shores. economic and “greener” synthetic routes for new Benefits to Society: therapeutically active natural product compounds to facilitate drug development. New natural product compounds are Stephen’s work into freeze casting has the potential to be constantly being discovered that show potential as new drug implemented into biomedical bone implants. He has developed compounds; however, obtaining an ample amount of these a novel technique in order to better mimic the complex porous novel, natural product compounds can be problematic. An structure of bone and, along with collaborators, is investigating abundant supply of a new drug compound is necessary to the biocompatibility of these structures. These materials could undergo the rigorous drug development process required for be implemented in order to create degradable bone implants, these compounds to become commercialized drugs. which would provide stability directly after an injury, but then degrade over time allowing for healthy bone to take its place. Publications and Posters: Awards and Honors: Schmit, D.; Barker, M.; Montgomery, T.; Mendez, Y.; Bergdahl, M. 2015-2016 Bernard and Sophia Gordon Engineering Leadership Diversity Oriented Total Synthesis of Pseurotin Analogs: Center Scholar. Awarded by the University of California, San Diego. Powerful Inhibitors of Angiogenesis and Inflammation, 2012 2015 Peer Mentorship GSA Community Award. Awarded by the CSU Biotechnology Symposium, Santa Clara, CA, January 2012. University of California, San Diego. 2015 Abe Hurlich Award. Awarded by ASM International. 2013 Outstanding Mechanical Engineering Graduate Teaching Assistant. Awarded by Oregon State University. 2012 - 2013 Samuel H. and Violet F. Graf Research Fellowship. Awarded by Oregon State University. Publications and Posters: Naleway, S. E.; Porter, M. M.; McKittrick, J.; Meyers, M. A. Structural Design Elements in Biological Materials: Application to Bioinspiration. Adv. Mater. [Online early access]. DOI: 10.1002/adma.201502403. Published online: Aug 25, 2015. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/adma.201502403/full. Naleway, S. E.; Yu, C. F.; Porter, M. M.; Sengupta, A.; Iovine, P. M.; Meyers, M. A.; McKittrick, J. Bioinspired Composites from Freeze Casting using Clathrate Hydrates. Mater. Des. 2015, 71, 62-67. Naleway, S. E.; Lear, W.; Kruzic, J. J.; Maughan, C. B. Mechanical Properties of Suture Materials in General and Cutaneous Surgery. J. Biomed. Mater. Res., Part B 2015, 103B, 735–742. Naleway, S. E.; Greene, R. B.; Gludovatz, B.; Dave, N. K. N.; Ritchie, R. O.; Kruzic, J. J. A Highly Fatigue-Resistant Zr-Based Bulk Metallic Glass. Metall. Mater. Trans. A 2013, 44A, 5688-5693.

22 EMILY NARDONI DAVID NELLES University of California, San Diego University of California, San Diego Department of Physics Jacobs School of Engineering Degrees: Degrees: B.S. in Physics, Massachusetts Institute M.S. in Materials Science and Engineering, ofTechnology University of California, San Diego B.S. in Engineering Physics, University of Pittsburgh Scholar Sponsor: Scholar Sponsor: Ellen Browning Scripps Foundation Virginia Lynch Grady Endowment About the Scholar: About the Scholar: Emily is interested in studying the mathematical structure of David is developing methods to measure the behavior of living the most fundamental theories of nature--theories of particle cells noninvasively. Stem cell therapies to replace damaged physics. To this end, she studies the framework of quantum brain or spinal tissue are an exciting prospect, but it is currently field theory, which is one of the most accurate in modern impossible to measure the behavior of transplanted cells physics and best describes particle physics. There are still many noninvasively. For any medical procedure, it is critical to track conceptual gaps in our understanding of quantum field theory both the safety and efficacy of the treatment. David recently which she hopes her research can help close. By trying to developed a noninvasive means of tracking cell behavior that understand the language in which physical theories are written, works in a petri dish, and he is currently working to extend this she hopes to gain a better understanding of particle physics tool to transplanted cells. David is a sculptor in various media but his favorites are plaster carving and torch-welded steel itself. She is interested in studying quantum field theory via sculpture. nonperturbative methods in supersymmetric theories. Often the only method available in the framework of quantum field Benefits to Society: theory is perturbation theory, which breaks down at strong David is developing enabling technologies for stem cell and coupling. To get around this limitation, particle theorists utilize other cell-based transplantation therapies. The promise of stem the powerful tools of supersymmetry and duality. cell therapy to replace damaged and diseased tissue will only Supersymmetric models have an extra symmetry which often be realized when the safety and efficacy of these approaches allows exact determination of some nonperturbative properties can be evaluated. With this goal in mind, he is developing of field theories. The concept of duality is fundamental to the engineered biomolecular systems (engineered proteins and structure of physical theories, relating two seemingly different polymers) that will enable noninvasive tracking of stem cells in physical theories in unexpected ways. Emily’s research hinges the human body to aid both the development of stem cell on the many insights that have come from studying the role of therapies and also ensure the safety of stem cell therapies. duality in strongly coupled non-Abelian gauge theories. She Awards and Honors: studies, in particular, the many puzzling aspects of duality in Recipient of an NSF Graduate Research Fellowship, a highly- supersymmetric quantum chromodynamics, a class of quantum competitive fellowship for graduate students in science and field theories that exhibit Seiberg duality. Emily enjoys cooking, technology (2011-2014) making espresso, running, and watching movies. Participant in an NSF-funded Research Experience for Benefits to Society: Undergraduate (REU) at Columbia University (2007) Participant in an NSF-funded Research Experience for The framework of quantum field theory encompasses the Undergraduate (REU) at MIT (2008) mathematical structure of particle physics, condensed matter Focht- Powell Graduate Research Fellowship from the UCSD systems, and the physics of the early universe, accurately Jacobs School of Engineering (2009-2010) describing experiments in all contexts. Because it is such a Member of the “Nifty Fifty” Sciencebridge outreach program. broad and fundamental framework in modern physics, it is Paired with a local high school teacher at Santee High School to important that we better understand what it can and cannot develop and teach lessons that introduce students to concepts teach us, and search for new ways to ask questions in physics in genomics (2010- 2012) whose answers are not limited by the current framework. Publications and Posters: Already, progress toward new and more efficient ways of Rush, A.; Nelles, D.; Blum, A.; Barnhill, S.; Tatro, E.; Yeo, G.; thinking about quantum field theory has led to new insights Gianneschi, N.C. Intracellular mRNA Regulation with Self- across several disciplines in physics, from fluid dynamics to Assembled Locked Nucleic Acid Polymer Nanoparticles. J. Am. general relativity, and it is likely that continuing this line of Chem. Soc 2014, 136 (21), pp 7615–7618. This work describes research will continue to have far-reaching and unexpected the development of DNA molecule modified with a polymer consequences across the whole field of physics. capable of entering live human cells and reducing expression of a cancer-related gene. Awards and Honors: Nelles, D. A.; Fang, M. Y.; Aigner, S.; and Yeo, G. W. Applications Disney Scholars award, provided by Walt Disney Co. Foundation of Cas9 as an RNA-programmed RNA-binding protein. Bioessays. 2015, 37, 732–739. This perspective describes the development of a system capable of noninvasive measure of gene expression in live human cells using the CRISPR/Cas9 genome engineering system.

23 JULIA NUSSBACHER TIM O’CONNOR University of California, San Diego University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, Sanford Consortium Jacobs School of Engineering, for Regenerative Medicine Department of NanoEngineering Degrees: Degrees: B.S. in Biochemistry, Brown University M.S. in NanoEngineering, University of California, San Diego Scholar Sponsor: M.S. & B.S. in Physics, Bowling Green State University Reuben H. Fleet Foundation Fund About the Scholar: Scholar Sponsor: Julia studies how RNA, the molecular intermediate between Reuben H. Fleet Foundation Fund DNA and protein, is processed in the cell, specifically how it is About the Scholar: modified by proteins to acquire additional function or undergo alternative processing. She is particularly interested in the role Tim uses newly developed electronic materials to build of RNA modification in neural development and neuro- stretchable “plastic” electronics with the main goal of creating degeneration. She uses high-throughput sequencing, flexible and stretchable solar cells. He also designs wearable genomics, bioinformatics, biochemistry, and cellular biology electronics for bio-medical applications. These wearable techniques to understand how the modification of RNAs affect electronic devices can be used as power sources, bio-sensors, their function in a stem-cell based model of developing and pressure sensors for new-age medical technologies. neurons. Her goal is to better understand how RNA Stretchable and wearable electronic devices can be manu- modification contributes to normal neural development and to factured using printing technologies, allowing them to be made identify potential roles in disease and degeneration. Julia loves at low cost and in large volumes, to make energy and medical cooking with friends, reading fiction, and weightlifting. materials and devices more cost effective in the future. Tim Benefits to Society: enjoys gymnastics, running, hiking, guitar, surfing, and using art in technology. RNA plays a significant role in several disease pathologies including neural developmental disorders and neuro- Benefits to Society: degeneration. By elucidating the mechanisms through which Tim’s research will contribute to the efforts for a clean energy RNA methylation regulates protein binding to its targets and future by developing cost effective, durable solar cells for grid- thereby modulates the fate of a significant portion of the tied and off-grid applications. It also aims to develop techniques transcriptome, we can better understand both normal cellular for producing low cost, wearable biomedical devices. This processes as well as the mechanisms of disease pathology. A research will provide a fundamental understanding of the better understanding of the RNA-mediated pathology will mechanics of stretchable electronic devices and push the tech- enable us to identify new and better targets for therapeutic nological frontiers of printed electronics by bridging the gap intervention. between laboratory fabrication and larger scale manufacturing. Awards and Honors: Awards and Honors: NIH/NCI Cancer Training Grant Recipient 2012, 2013, UCSD School of Medicine National Defense Science and Engineering Graduate Fellowship Genentech Foundation Fellow 2011, UCSD School of Medicine Building Ohio’s Sustainable Energy Future Scholarship Honors in Biochemistry, Brown University Graduated with Cum Laude distinction (Bowling Green State University) Associate Member ™• The Scientific Research Society, Brown University James Robert and Gretchen Overman Scholarship Dean’s Honors List Publications and Posters: Publications and Posters: Nussbacher, J. K.; Batra, R.; Lagier-Tourenne, C.; Yeo, G. W., RNA-binding proteins in neurodegeneration: Seq and you shall O’Connor, T. F.; Zaretski A. V.; Savagatrup S.; Printz A. D.; Wilkes receive. Trends in neurosciences 2015. C. D.; Diaz M. I.; Lipomi D. J. Ultra-flexible organic solar cells for powering wearable electronics. Sol. Energ. Mat. Sol. Cells. Axelsson, J.; Xu, D.; Kang, B. N.; Nussbacher, J. K.; Handel, T. 2015 (accepted). M.; Ley, K.; Sriramarao, P.; Esko, J. D., Inactivation of heparan O’Connor T. F.; Rajan K. M.; Printz A. D.; Lipomi D. J. Toward sulfate 2-O-sulfotransferase accentuates neutrophil infiltration organic electronics with properties inspired by biological tissue. during acute inflammation in mice. Blood 2012, 120 (8), 1742-51. J. Mater. Chem. B. 2015, 10.1039/C5TB00173K. Tomas Bos, Julia Nussbacher, Gene WYeo. Tethering of RNA O’Connor T. F.; Zaretski A. V.; Shiravi B.; Savagatrup S.; Printz A. binding proteins to reveal molecular insights. "Genome-wide D.; Diaz M. I.; Lipomi D. J. Stretching and Conformal Bonding of probing of RNA processing", edited by Gene Yeo, Advances in Organic Solar Cells to Hemispherical Surfaces. Energy & Experimental Medicine and Biology, Springer publishing. Environ. Sci. 2014, 7, 370. O’Connor T. F.; Panov M.; Mereshchenko A.; Tarnovsky A.; Lorek R.; Perera D.; Diederich G.; Lambright S.; Imboden M.; Zamkov M. The Effect of the Charge-Separating Interface on Exciton Dynamics in Photocatalytic Colloidal Heteronanocrystals. ACS Nano. 2012, 6, 8156.

24 MATT ONDECK SETH PARKER University of California, San Diego University of California, San Diego Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Jacobs School of Engineering Medicine Degrees: Degrees: M.S. in Bioengineering, University of M.S. in Materials Science and California, San Diego Engineering, University of California, B.S. in Chemical and Biological San Diego Engineering, University of Colorado B.S. in Materials Science and Engineering at Boulder & Bioengineering, Carnegie Mellon Univ. Scholar Sponsors: Scholar Sponsor: Drs. Mara and Larry Ybarrondo/ARCS Foundation Hervey Family Non-Endowment Fund About the Scholar: About the Scholar: Seth studies how mutations in specific genes affect cancer cell Breast cancer fibrosis is a dynamic process that results in metabolism. Through the use of stable-isotope tracing and matrix tissue stiffness increase. Mammary epithelial cells mass spectrometry, Seth can visualize metabolic pathway develop into 3D hollow spheres called “acini” on soft tissue activity and understand how these mutations influence where the cells rearrange into a polarized spherical structure. pathway flux. Seth’s goal is to identify metabolic deficiencies Mammary cells respond to an increase in tissue stiffness and and develop optimal strategies to treat tumors bearing these resemble a malignant state on stiffer tissue, lacking any mutations. Seth also develops novel stable-isotope tracing polarized acinar structure. This is akin to the stiff mammary methods to characterize the activity of metabolic pathways not tumors that one can detect with manual palpation. Current in- possible using current methods. Outside of the lab, Seth enjoys vitro techniques to simulate dynamic stiffening use static outdoor activities such as camping, surfing, and rock climbing Polyacrylamide hydrogels as cell scaffolds. However, these scaffolds remain static and therefore are not very comparable and is an avid home brewer. to what is seen in the human body.To more fully simulate the Benefits to Society: fibrosis that occurs in breast cancer, Matt is using a stiffening Cancer is an inherently genetic disease caused by the Methacrylated Hyaluronic Acid (MeHA) hydrogel that increases accumulation of mutations in genes controlling various cellular in stiffness with UV light. This novel MeHA hydrogel allows processes. With the decreasing cost of next-generation DNA adherent mammary acini to see a healthy stiffness initially, then a diseased stiffness, which is more similar to what cells would sequencing, a greater number of cancer patients can have their see during breast cancer progression. When he is not in the tumors genotyped and therapies can be tailored to individual lab, Matt enjoys hiking, San Diego beaches, sailing, and sports. tumors. In order for this vision to become reality, a molecular understanding of how specific mutations affect tumor meta- Benefits to Society: bolism and growth is required to design effective therapeutic Although Matt’s research is based largely around the mammary strategies that kill tumors of a particular genetic profile. tumor environment, critical processes such as development and tumor formation are all based out of dynamically stiffening Awards and Honors: tissues. Due to the complexities of developing a dynamic Siebel Scholar, Class of 2016 model, these systems are rarely simulated, which hinders NIH/NCI Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Award researchers’ ability to fully understand the mechanisms by (F31), 2015-2017 which they evolve. The ability to mimic a variety of dynamic biological substrates will allow researchers to investigate a NIH/NIBIB Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Award myriad of cellular states, such as a myocardial infarction, where (T32), 2012-2014 the resulting scar tissue is much stiffer than the surrounding HHMI Teaching Innovation Program (TIPS) grant, 2014 heart tissue. The novelty and innovativeness of this project Mr. and Mrs. David and Margaret Grohne Scholarship, 2007- poses to contribute to the overall wealth of knowledge in the 2011 scientific community. Publications and Posters: Awards and Honors: Parker, S. J. and Metallo, C.M. Metabolic consequences of NSF GRFP Fellowship 2013 oncogenic IDH mutations. Pharmacology & Therapeutics. 2015, ASCB 2013-2014 Poster Presentee 152, 54-62. Publications and Posters: Lewis, C. A.; Parker, S. J. et al. Tracing compartmentalized Ondeck, M.G., Viswanathan, P., Chirasatitsin, S., Nghamkham, K., Reilly, NADPH metabolism in the cytosol and mitochondria of G.C., Engler, A.J., and Battaglia, G. 3D Surface Topology Guides Stem mammalian cells. Mol. Cell. 2014, 55(2), 253-263. Cell Adhesion and Differentiation. Biomaterials. 2015, 52:140-147. Grassian, A. R.; Parker, S. J. et al. IDH1 mutations alter citric Hribar, K.C., Choi, Y.S., Ondeck, M., Engler, A.J., and Chen, S. Digital Plasmonic Patterning of Hydrogels. Adv Funct Mat. 2014, 24(31) 4922-26. acid cycle metabolism and increase dependence on oxidative mitochondrial metabolism. Cancer Res. 2014, 74(12), 3317-3331. Ondeck, M.G., Engler, A.J., Dynamic Materials Mimic Deveolpmental and Diesease Changes in Tissues. IN Bio-inspired Materials for Biomedical Commisso, C.; Davidson, S. M.; Soydaner-Azeloglu, R. G.; Engineering. Brennan, A.B, Kirschner, C.M. Wiley-Soceity for Biomaterials, 2014, 25-45. Parker, S. J.; et al. Macropinocytosis of protein is an amino acid supply route in Ras-transformed cells. Nature. 2013, 497(7451), A.Habib, M.Ondeck, K.Miller, R.Swaminathan, M.McHenry; Novel solder- magnetic particle composites, their reflow using AC magnetic fields; 633-637. IEEE Journal; Trans on Magnetics;Vol.46,No.6, 2187-90; 6/2010. 25 ERIK PAULSON GABE PRATT San Diego State University University of California, San Diego Department of Chemistry and Bioinformatics and Systems Biology Biochemistry Graduate Program Degrees: Degrees: Single Subject Teaching Credential, B.S. Computer Science, University of University of California, Riverside Washington, Seattle B.S. in Chemistry, University of California, Scholar Sponsor: Riverside ARCS Foundation Scholar Sponsor: About the Scholar: Kathryn Crippen Hattox Fund Gabe is interested in using computers to understand and help About the Scholar: elucidate major unanswered questions in biology. Specifically, The Grotjahn group makes catalysts that make reactions faster using he develops and applies techniques from the data science field an approach that mimics Nature’s catalysts: enzymes. Enzymes often to understand what causes Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis use the activity of a metal like iron or copper to assist in the building (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. ALS may be caused of molecules, but the metal can be tailored using organic molecules as by a dysfunction of RNA processing so he works to understand shrubbery (a protein, for example). In this whole system, there is a the differences between RNA in patents and cells with ALS and synergistic interplay between the two that can allow these enzymes to those unaffected by the disease. Additionally to better under- efficiently and selectively create the molecules of life. His group stand general RNA processing, he characterizes what proteins designs catalysts in which they attach organic molecules to the metal are associated with RNA and how they affect RNA in regular that not only directly tailor the metal’s activity, but also play an active cells. Gabe is an avid swimmer and enjoys spending time in role in the reaction itself! They call these bifunctional catalysts. In Erik’s the outdoors. particular case, the transformation achieved with his catalysts is the migration of a double bond down a chain, a reaction which can require Benefits to Society: a base to shuttle and shift a hydrogen atom around. By attaching a Gabe’s research advances are twofold. First by understanding dangling organic base directly to the metal as opposed to it floating the root causes of ALS, we can progress towards finding a cure around free in solution, he can achieve rate increases on the for this devastating disease. Second, his general RNA magnitude of 300 to 10000! In his spare time, Erik loves traveling, characterization project is a science accelerator. He is making hiking, and watching San Diego Chargers football. the data from the project available to anyone pre-publication, Benefits to Society: so scientists with specific questions will be able to ask questions and answer questions that he may not have thought Erik’s group has tailored their catalysts to be incredibly selective to of and they, previously, may not have had the capability to produce (E)-alkenes. A direct potential area of application to cross over answer. into the commercial sector is with flavors and fragrances. They can use their catalysts to take essential oils like clove oil (eugenol) and shift Awards and Honors: the double bond to give essentially exclusively (E)-isoeugenol, which National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship has a scent like nutmeg, without forming the harsh-smelling (Z)- Program isoeugenol. There are thousands of syntheses of natural products or JASSO Fellowship derivatives in which a double bond is functionalized as part of the process, and their catalysts provide a mild synthetic transformation of Publications and Posters: this double bond, which can lead to more efficient routes of Lee, S. R.; Pratt, G. A.; Martinez, F. J.; Yeo, G. W.; Lykke- synthesizing pharmaceutical or other commercial products. Andersen, J. Mol. Cell 2015, 59 (3), 413–425. Awards and Honors: Singh, G.; Pratt, G.; Yeo, G. W.; Moore, M. J. Annu. Rev. Organic Reactions Catalysis Society (ORCS) Travel Award Biochem. 2013, 84 (1), 150317182619002 (March 2014) Lovci, M. T.; Ghanem, D.; Marr, H.; Arnold, J.; Gee, S.; Parra, M.; Two-time Teacher of the Month, John Burroughs High School, Liang, T. Y.; Stark, T. J.; Gehman, L. T.; Hoon, S.; Massirer, K. B.; Burbank, California (January and November 2007) Pratt, G. a; Black, D. L.; Gray, J. W.; Conboy, J. G.; Yeo, G. W. Publications and Posters: Nat. Struct. Mol. Biol. 2013, 20 (12), 1434–1442. Larsen, C. R., Paulson, E. R., Erdogan, G., Grotjahn, D. B. A Facile, Convenient, and Green Route to (E)-Propenylbenzene Paige, S. L.; Thomas, S.; Stoick-Cooper, C. L.; Wang, H.; Maves, Flavors and Fragrances by Alkene Isomerization. Synlett 2015, L.; Sandstrom, R.; Pabon, L.; Reinecke, H.; Pratt, G.; Keller, G.; Ahead of Print. (Authors contributed equally) Moon, R. T.; Stamatoyannopoulos, J.; Murry, C. E. Cell 2012, 151 Grotjahn, D.B., Larsen, C.R., Erdogan, G., Paulson, E.R. Terminal (1), 221–232. alkene monoisomerization catalysts and methods. U.S. Pat. Appl. Publ., US 20150231621 A1 20150820, January 9, 2015. Paulson, E.R., Larsen, C.R., Erdogan, G. Grotjahn, D.B. Abstracts of Papers, 248th ACS National Meeting and Exposition, San Francisco, California, August 10th-14th, 2014; American Chemical Society: Washington, DC, 2014; ORGN-683. Paulson,E.R., Grotjahn, D.B. Book of Abstracts, 25th Biennial Organic Reactions Catalysis Society Conference, Tuscon, Arizona, March 2nd-6th, 2014. 26 STEPHEN EDWARD RICE DUSTIN RICHMOND San Diego State University University of California, San Diego College of Sciences Jacobs School of Engineering, Computer Degrees: Science & Engineering Department M.S. in Biology, Old Dominion University Degrees: B.S. in Computer Engineering, University B.A. in Biology, University of North of Washington Carolina, Asheville B.S. in Electrical Engineering, University Scholar Sponsor: of Washington ARCS Foundation Scholar Sponsor: About the Scholar: Reuben H. Fleet Foundation Fund/ARCS Foundation Stephen uses molecular genetic tools paired with mathematical About the Scholar: modeling to understand the evolutionary ecology of reptiles in Southern Application web servers spend significant time serving simple California and to assess the viability of these populations in the future. requests with large overhead. Unfortunately, these simple He works on the mainland with Southern Pacific rattlesnakes and on the requests waste significant power and cycles. At the scale of a Channel Islands with the island night lizard. These species have had single data center, this represents an enormous cost. little-to-no previous genetic work conducted and very little is known of Fortunately, the workload for these servers is well known and their demography, sensitivity to climate change, or the extinction risks solutions can be applied to many thousands of servers. Dustin posed by synergistic threats. His objectives are to understand patterns is working on techniques to offload some of the simple of genetic diversity within these species and use these data to assess computations into the networking hardware to improve the extinction risk and identify management strategies. efficiency of web servers in large data centers. Benefits to Society: Benefits to Society: Stephen’s research will benefit society by increasing educational Dustin’s work will reduce the power consumed by data centers, opportunities for undergraduates and volunteers; allow for fiscally which are the backbone of the web as it exists today. His work responsible planning and conservation efforts; provide insight into will also improve the performance of some web server contemporary processes; and allow the projection of future trends for applications. Finally, this work will also be open source so the proactive management. The main benefit that his research will have is a products of his research will be available for extension by other methodological basis of assessing current patterns of genetic diversity and population subdivision within species that provide ecological academic researchers and use in industry. services, which are generally lacking from economic forecasts but will Awards and Honors: become increasingly vital under global climate change. Charles Lee Powell Fellowship Awards and Honors: National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship Laurel Scholar Eta Kappa Nu Honor Society President (Iota Upsilon chapter) Asheville Civitan Club Scholar Publications and Posters: Western North Carolina Leadership Scholar Jacobsen, M.; Richmond, D.; Hogains, M.; Kastner, R. RIFFA 2.1: Publications and Posters: A Reusable Integration Framework for FPGA Accelerators, In Rose, R.K.; Rice, S.E. 2013. Patterns of Transience, Sex Bias, ACM Transactions on Reconfigurable Technology and Systems. and Body Mass in Open-habitat Rodent Populations. American Gautier, Q.; Shearer, A., Matai, J.; Richmond, D.; Meng, P.; Society of Mammalogists, Philadelphia, PA. June 14-18, 2013. Kastner, R. Real-time 3D Reconstruction for FPGAs: A Case Study for Evaluating the Performance, Area, and Rice, S.E.; Anderson, K.A.; Regan, H.M.; Syphard, A.; Franklin, Programmability Trade-offs of the Altera OpenCL SDK, In J.; Bonebrake, T.; Winchell, C. Threat Assessment and Dispersal Proceedings of The International Conference on Field of the Big-eared Woodrat (Neotoma macrotis). University of Programmable Technology 2014. California Riverside Gradfest Symposium, Riverside, CA. March 9, 2013. Richmond, D.; Kastner, R.; Irturk, A.; McGarry, J. “A FPGA design for high speed feature extraction from a compressed Schuett, G.W.; Hoss, S.K.; Rice, S.E. Crotalus atrox (Western measurement stream” In Proceedings of The International diamond-backed rattlesnake), Crotalus ruber (Red-diamond Conference on Field Programmable Logic 2013. rattlesnake). Loss of rattle and style/matrix. Herpetological Review, 2012, 43(2), 341-342. Brossard, E.; Richmond, D.; Green, J.; Ebeling, C.; Ruzzo, L.; Olson, C.; Hauck, S. "A Model for Programming Data-Intensive Applications on FPGAs: A Genomics Case Study," In Proceedings of Symposium on Application Specific High Performance Accelerators 2012.

27 KELLY ROSS KEVIN ROSS San Diego State University University of California, San Diego College of Sciences Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program Degrees: Degrees: B.S. in Molecular and Cellular B.S. in Microbiology, Pennsylvania State Biology/Psychology, University of Illinois, University Urbana-Champaign M.S. in Physics, University of California, Scholar Sponsor: San Diego B.S. in Chemistry, University of Arizona French and Masserini Funds Scholar Sponsor: About the Scholar: ARCS Foundation Kelly is researching the function of SoxB transcription factor genes in planarian neurogenesis. Planarians are non-parasitic About the Scholar: flatworms with a molecularly complex central nervous system Kevin’s research is focused on a unique regulatory role for that completely regenerates following amputation or injury nuclear export factor1 (Nxf1), whose main function is to recognize mature mRNA transcripts and facilitate their transport from a population of adult pluripotent stem cells. In particular, from the nucleus to the cytoplasm of a cell. An additional one SoxB gene (Sox1-like) causes seizure-like behaviors in function of Nxf1 is the suppression of genetic mutations caused planarians following light exposure as well as smaller by retroviruses in mice, in a manner that suggests it occurs prior regenerated brains. She aims to uncover genetic targets of to the recognition of a mature mRNA. He is studying the specific Sox1-like by performing RNA sequencing on control and Sox1- mechanism of this suppression, and the role of variation in Nxf1 like deficient planarians. This data set has already revealed a that determines its interaction with other factors involved in mRNA processing and maturation. In his free time, he serves as downregulation of genes necessary for neural function. In her a representative on the UCSD Graduate Student Association, and spare time, Kelly enjoys cooking, reading, and spending time participates in his own program’s graduate council, which works outside with her family and dog. to enrich the lives of students outside of the lab. He also is an Benefits to Society: avid racquetball player. In mice, loss of the gene Sox1 leads to epileptic seizures, and Benefits to Society: human genome-wide association studies have implicated Sox1 Understanding the functional consequences of common mutations in epileptic disorders. However, the genes regulated genetic variation in the context of disease risk and severity is a subject of great importance to society. Nxf1 sits at the center by Sox1 in the brain remain largely unknown. Thus, uncovering of a gene regulatory network, and common, non-pathogenic the genetic targets of Sox1 would provide crucial insights into variation in Nxf1 has a significant impact on the outcome of human disease. Kelly’s current goals are to determine which potential disease-causing mutations in other genes in mice. A genes are directly affected by Sox1-like malfunction in detailed understanding of the role of Nxf1 in mRNA maturation planarians to further elucidate the molecular mechanisms and processing will provide new insights into complex genetic underlying seizures in humans and to establish planarians as a systems that underlie disease. model for seizure disorders. Awards and Honors: Awards and Honors: NIH Training Program in Basic and Clinical Genetics Anita Roberts Memorial Fund Travel Fellowship Best Poster Award, Mouse Molecular Genetics Conference, Genetics Society of America European Molecular Biology Organization Travel Fellowship Edmund J. James Scholar, University of Illinois SDSU Student Research Symposium Provost’s Award Publications and Posters: SDSU Instructionally Related Activities Travel Grant Zhang, S.; Ross, K. D.; Seidner, G. A.; Gorman, M. R.; Poon, T. H.; Wang, X.; Keithley, E. M.; Lee, P. N.; Martindale, M. Q.; Joiner, W. J.; Hamilton, B. A., Nmf9 Encodes a Publications and Posters: Highly Conserved Protein Important to Neurological Function in Mice and Flies. PLoS genetics 2015, 11 (7), e1005344. Ross, K.G.; Omuro, K. C.; Taylor, M. R.; Munday, R. K.; Hubert A.; Concepcion, D.; Ross, K. D.; Hutt, K. R.; Yeo, G. W.; Hamilton, B. A., Nxf1 Natural King R. S.; Zayas, R. M. Novel monoclonal antibodies to study Variant E610G Is a Semi-dominant Suppressor of IAP-Induced RNA Processing tissue regeneration in planarians. BMC Dev. Biol. 2015, 15(1), 2. Defects. PLoS genetics 2015, 11 (4). Uricchio, L. H.; Chong, J. X.; Ross, K. D.; Ober, C.; Nicolae, D. L., Accurate Imputation Forsthoefel, D. J.*; Ross, K. G.*; Newmark, P. A.; Zayas, R. M. of Rare and Common Variants in a Founder Population From a Small Number of Fixation, processing, and immunofluorescent labeling of whole Sequenced Individuals. Genetic Epidemiology 2012, 36 (4), 312-319. mount planarians. In Methods for Planarian Research: Methods Torgerson, D. G.; Ampleford, E. J.; Chiu, G. Y.; Gauderman, W. J.; Gignoux, C. R.; in Molecular Biology, (In press). *These authors contributed equally. Graves, P. E.; Himes, B. E.; Levin, A. M.; Mathias, R. A.; Hancock, D. B.; Baurley, J. W.; Eng, C.; Stern, D. A.; Celedon, J. C.; Rafaels, N.; Capurso, D.; Conti, D. V.; Roth, L. A.; Hubert, A.; Henderson, J. M.; Cowles, M. W.; Ross, K. G.; Hagen, Soto-Quiros, M.; Togias, A.; Li, X. N.; Myers, R. A.; Romieu, I.; Van Den Berg, D. J.; Hu, D. L.; Hansel, N. N.; Hernandez, R. D.; Israel, E.; Salam, M. T.; Galanter, J.; Avila, P. C.; M.; Anderson, C.; Szeterlak, C. J.; Zayas, R. M. A functional Avila, L.; Rodriquez-Santana, J. R.; Chapela, R.; Rodriguez-Cintron, W.; Diette, G. B.; genomics screen identifies an Importin-alpha homolog as a Adkinson, N. F.; Abel, R. A.; Ross, K. D.; Shi, M.; Faruque, M. U.; Dunston, G. M.; regulator of stem cell function and tissue patterning during Watson, H. R.; Mantese, V. J.; Ezurum, S. C.; Liang, L. M.; Ruczinski, I.; Ford, J. G.; Huntsman, S.; Chung, K. F.; Vora, H.; Li, X.; Calhoun, W. J.; Castro, M.; Sienra-Monge, planarian regeneration. BMC Genomics, (In press). J. J.; del Rio-Navarro, B.; Deichmann, K. A.; Heinzmann, A.; Wenzel, S. E.; Busse, W. W.; Gern, J. E.; Lemanske, R. F.; Beaty, T. H.; Bleecker, E. R.; Raby, B. A.; Meyers, D. A.; Hubert, A.; Henderson, J. M.; Ross, K. G.; Cowles, M. W.; Zayas, London, S. J.; Gilliland, F. D.; Burchard, E. G.; Martinez, F. D.; Weiss, S. T.; Williams, L. R. M. Epigenetic regulation of planarian stem cells by the K.; Barnes, K. C.; Ober, C.; Nicolae, D. L.; Asthma, M. C. C.; Study, C. H.; Study, H.; Admixture, S. G. E.; Asthma, S. A. A.; Network, C.; CAMP; SAPPHIRE; Study, G., SET1/MLL family of histone methyltransferases. Epigenetics. Meta-analysis of genome-wide association studies of asthma in ethnically diverse 2012, 8(1), 79-91. North American populations. Nature genetics 2011, 43 (9), 887-U103.. 28 JULIA ROSSI BEN RUBIN San Diego State University University of California, San Diego College of Sciences, Computational Science Graduate Biology Program Research Center Degrees: Degrees: B.A. in molecular biology and M.S. in Physics, San Diego State biochemistry, and economics at University Middlebury College B.A. in Physics, University of San Diego B.A. in Biology, University of San Diego Scholar Sponsor: ARCS Foundation Scholar Sponsor: Cymer, Inc. About the Scholar: Cyanobacteria are major contributors to the Earth’s oxygen-rich About the Scholar: atmosphere and they make up a substantial portion of its green Julia is using computational methods to research polariton life. In addition to being used to understand fundamental Bose-Einstein condensates (BECs) in semiconductor processes such as the production of organic matter from light, microcavities. Unlike atomic BECs that need operating cyanobacteria are currently being developed as production temperatures close to absolute zero (of the order of nano platforms for renewable fuels, chemicals and pharmaceuticals; however, the understanding and use of cyanobacteria as a bio- Kelvin), polariton BECs exist at much higher temperatures. production platform has been hampered by a lack of under- Polariton BECs, consisting of short-lived exciton-photon standing of the complete set of genes and pathways important to quasiparticles, are an excellent candidate for solid-state the organisms’ survival. Ben has created a collection of 250,000 applications in quantum computing, quantum clocks, and other cyanobacteria mutants to identify the complete set of essential high-precision devices. Julia’s objective is to utilize a genetic elements in this organism. Ben is a member of the synergistic approach by bringing together mathematics, UCSD Surf Team, a runner, a biker, an addict of news podcasts, physics, and state-of-the-art computational methods toward an avid cook, a reader, and a tender of orchids. understanding and driving cutting-edge technological Benefits to Society: developments. Julia enjoys surfing, snowboarding, and This research provides the first complete picture of the genetic painting in her spare time. cogs essential for the survival of an organism that uses light for Benefits to Society: energy. As such, it will aid our understanding of the fundamental process that drives the plants, algae, and Polariton condensates exhibit remarkable features such as photosynthetic bacteria that dominate our ecosystem, and superfluidity, allowing for a broad range of applications potentially provide the framework necessary to synthetically including spin switches, light-emitting diodes, quantum generate these organisms. More concretely, this work produces computing, quantum clocks, and lasers operating at much general data and specific metabolic conclusions that will higher efficiency than traditional lasers. One of the most illuminate the basic biology of cyanobacteria and facilitate its exciting technological applications of Bose-Einstein development as a bioproduction platform. condensates is perhaps in quantum computing, whereby a new Awards and Honors: computational paradigm, based on quantum information, could Goeddel Graduate Scholar Award, University of California San enable ultra-fast computers to perform a multitude of Diego June 2015 simultaneous operations by virtue of laws of quantum The Biology Program Award for Teaching Excellency, University of mechanics. California San Diego Sept 2014 3rd place in Grand Slam, University of California San Diego. A Awards and Honors: university-wide graduate student speaking competition. April 2014 Wilmia Tyler Trott Memorial Scholarship Honors in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Middlebury College May 2011 State University Grant College Scholar, Middlebury College Fall 2009 Summer Undergraduate Research Experience Publications and Posters: Publications and Posters: Diamond, S.; Jun, D.; Rubin, B. E.; and Golden, S. S.; Circadian Rossi, J.M., Atomic Factorization of Molecular Interactions. control of carbon metabolism in Synechococcus elongatus PCC7942. Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. 2015, 112, 1916-1925. M.S. Thesis, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA. Rubin BE et al. “The Minimal Genome of a Photosynthetic Microorganism.” International Symposium on Phototrophic Prokaryotes: August 2-6; Tübingen, Germany. Diamond S, Rubin BE, Shultzaberger R, and Golden S “Circadian Output in S. elongatus Activates Metabolic Functions Important for Diurnal Viability.” Food and Fuels for the Twenty First Century; 2015 March 12-13; La Jolla CA. Diamond S, Rubin BE, Jun D, and Golden SS. Integration of Circadian External Signals in Metabolic Control in Synechococcus elongatus PCC 7942. 11th Workshop on Cyanobacteria; 2013 Aug 7-10; St. Louis, MO.

29 SUCHOL SAVAGATRUP ANTHONY SHAO University of California, San Diego University of San Diego Jacobs School of Engineering Shiley-Marcos School of Engineering Degrees: Degrees: B.S. in Chemical Engineering, University B.S./B.A. Electrical Engineering (In of California, Berkeley Progress) B.A. Finance (In Progress)

Scholar Sponsor: Scholar Sponsors: Lambert Family Foundation for Education at Union Bank WD-40 Company/ARCS Foundation About the Scholar: About the Scholar: Suchol studies the mechanical properties and degradation Anthony’s research set out to find the most apt way of teaching behaviors of semiconducting polymers. Semiconducting problem solving to freshman engineers. He researched various polymers are ubiquitous to organic electronics such as organic techniques of problem solving methods, introspection, barriers solar cells, light-emitting diodes, and sensors. Understanding the to problem solving, and retention, and then created a lecture interplay between mechanical resilience and high-performance based on these materials. He then gave the lecture to several semiconducting properties will enable the engineering of classes of freshman engineers and analyzed their knowledge efficient electronic devices that can withstand extreme pre and post lecture. He found that students became more mechanical deformation, for example, in ultra-low-cost solar familiar with problem solving methods after the lecture and panels and wearable applications. When not working in the lab, that the students felt more prepared and comfortable with the Suchol enjoys cooking, following sports, and beer tasting. new problem solving methods. Anthony enjoys playing Benefits to Society: basketball, football, running, and various other sports. He also sings in his free time, and loves to spend time with his family Mechanically robust semiconducting polymers have numerous and cat. applications for our future energy needs. They could potentially allow for roll-to-roll printing of organic solar panels that are Benefits to Society: portable and extremely lightweight, which will significantly This research, albeit somewhat simple, adds to the ongoing reduce the cost of manufacturing, installing, and repairing solar discussion of “how to effectively teach.” The goal of this panels on a massive scale. Additionally, this research on research was to find a more apt way of teaching problem stretchable semiconductors directly impacts the healthcare solving. Since teaching is the fundamental base of all industry because of their applications in prosthetic sensors and education, Anthony believes that creating a streamlined, conformable devices for monitoring electrical, chemical, and effective, and collaborative system is the key to aiding the mechanical signals inside and outside the human body. teaching world. This research adds to the world of science through its strengthening of the learning process, a crucial Awards and Honors: junction in all of academia. National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship Awards and Honors: Magna Cum Laude Graduate, UC Berkeley First Honors – Given to students with at least a 3.65 GPA College of Chemistry Dean’s Honor List, UC Berkeley Beta Gamma Sigma Member – Honors Business Society Melvin J. Heger-Horst Fellowship, UC Berkeley Honors Program at the University of San Diego Publications and Posters: Publications and Posters: Savagatrup, S.; Printz, A. D.; O’Connor, T. F.; Zaretski, A. V.; Problem Solving Methods – Created a poster and a paper Rodriquez, D.; Sawyer, E. J.; Rajan, K. M.; Acosta, R. I.; Root, S. regarding the processes and analysis of his research. The E.; Lipomi, D. J. Mechanical Degradation and Stability of poster was created to present at the AAAS Conference in San Organic Solar Cells: Molecular and Microstructural Francisco and at the University of San Diego. The paper, though Determinants. Energy Environ. Sci. 2014. DOI: still in its editing process, details their methodology, findings, 10.1039/C4EE02657H. and analysis. Savagatrup, S.; Printz, A. D.; O’Connor, T. F.; Zaretski, A. V.; HP Intern Poster – This poster was created at an internship this Lipomi, D. J. Molecularly Stretchable Electronics. Chem. Mater. past summer with Hewlett-Packard. The poster was then 2014, 26, 3028. presented to an open audience, detailing the steps he took to save the company $2.4 million USD. The poster also detailed Savagatrup, S.; Printz, A. D.; Rodriquez, D.; Lipomi, D. J. Best of the processes of printed circuit board design, cost analysis, and Both Worlds: Conjugated Polymers Exhibiting Good procurement. Photovoltaic Behavior and High Tensile Elasticity. Macromolecules 2014, 47, 1981. Savagatrup, S.; Makaram, A. S.; Burke, D. J.; Lipomi, D. J. Mechanical Properties of Conjugated Polymers and Polymer- Fullerene Composites as a Function of Molecular Structure. Adv. Funct. Mater. 2014, 24, 1169.

30 COLETTE SMIRNIOTIS WINSTON STAUFFER San Diego State University San Diego State University, UC San Diego Computational Science Research Center, San Diego State University Heart Institute, College of Sciences Biology Department Degrees: Degrees: M.S. in Statistics (Biostatistics), San Diego B.S. in Biology, UC Santa Cruz State University B.A. in Math and Economics, Washington University in St. Louis Scholar Sponsor: Scholar Sponsor: ARCS Foundation ARCS Foundation About the Scholar: About the Scholar: Winston is interested in how the heart responds to stresses that mimic what happens during a heart attack or congestive heart Scientists use mathematical models to describe the weather, failure on a cellular level. This includes how ischemic stress or the oceans, and the climate. For example, consider the lack of blood flow interferes with how heart muscle cells create multiple hurricane paths weather forecasts show on the news and fold new proteins. If these processes are disrupted, the when a hurricane is forming and approaching land. Colette’s buildup of misfolded proteins can become toxic and can lead to main research is in the field of data assimilation, which is the cell and tissue death. A set of genes designed to aid protein process of combining real observations with the output from folding can be activated to prevent this from happening. His the models to update and improve forecasts. Her aim is to research focuses on identifying and manipulating these genes to improve existing algorithms, resulting in more accurate look for possible therapeutic targets beneficial to those with predictions. Additionally, she is working on a project to heart disease. In his spare time, Winston likes to read history, create improved predictions of snowfall in the Rocky play trivia games and ultimate Frisbee, and dogs. Mountains, using statistical methods to combine multiple data sets. When not at her computer, Colette enjoys swimming, Benefits to Society: running, hiking, and camping. If a way can be found to enhance this gene program, called the Benefits to Society: Unfolded Protein Response, this could lead to a variety of new treatments that prevent tissue death during and after a heart Weather and climate models are used to forecast everything attack. This may preserve heart function and prevent cardiac from hurricane trajectories to snowfall to sea level rise—all of remodeling that leads to heart failure. In the case of cardiac which can have significant impacts on society. Improvements stem cells we may even be able to re-grow and repair damaged to existing data assimilation algorithms will improve hearts without the need for surgery or transplants. predictions. Better predictions for hurricane trajectories, for example, would allow for better preparedness by communities Awards and Honors: in its path. More accurate snowfall estimates improve water Rees-Stealy Research Foundation Fellow (2014 and 2015). resource management, as snowfall is a major water source for much of the Western United States. Publications and Posters: Awards and Honors: Stauffer, W.T., Bailey, B., Arrieta, A., Doroudgar, S., Glembotski, C.C. MANF is an ER Stress-inducible Protein with Novel Roles Academic Excellence in Biostatistics, San Diego State as a Regulator of Cardiac Myocyte Growth. AHA Scientific University, 2013 Sessions, Chicago, IL, November 15-19, 2014; American Heart Publications and Posters: Association. Oral Presentation. Smirniotis, C.; Bailey, B. Comparison of Ensemble Filters for Stauffer, W.T., Doroudgar, S., Stephens, H.N., Glembotski, C.C. Data Assimilation. Presented at the STATMOS/NCAR Invited The Adaptive ER Stress Response has a Critical Role in Poster Presentations at the Joint Statistical Meetings, Seattle, Promoting Proliferation and Viability in Cardiac Progenitor WA, August 8-13, 2015. Cells. SDSU Graduate Student Seminar, San Diego, CA, April, 2015. San Diego State University. Poster and oral presentations. Smirniotis, C.; Bailey, B. Visualization of Data Assimilation Stauffer, W.T., Doroudgar, S., Stephens, H.N., Bailey, B., Methods. Presented at the STATMOS/NCAR Invited Poster Glembotski, C.C. ATF6 and the Adaptive ER Stress Response Presentations at the Joint Statistical Meetings, Seattle, WA, Promotes Proliferation and Viability of Mouse Cardiac August 2-7, 2014. Progenitor Cells. AHA Scientific Sessions, Orlando, FL, November 7-11, 2015; American Heart Association. Poster Presentation.

31 MIKE TAIT JOHN TAT University of California, San Diego The Scripps Research Institute Division of Physical Sciences Kellogg School of Science and Technology Degrees: Degrees: C.Phil. In Mathematics, University of B.A. in History, University of California, California, San Diego San Diego M.S. In Mathematics, University of B.S. in Physiology and Neuroscience, Delaware University of California, San Diego B.S. In Mathematics and Economics, Scholar Sponsor: University of Delaware Hervey Family Non-Endowment Fund Scholar Sponsor: About the Scholar: Donald C. and Elizabeth M. Dickinson Foundation Given the diverse nature of cancer, John believes that cancer About the Scholar: researchers need to approach these diseases from multiple perspectives, so that the therapies they create will cure both Mike is researching a number of problems in Graph Theory. the disease and the person. This mantra is demonstrated in the Given an object’s set of specific properties, how large or way John practices science. As a basic researcher, he small can it possibly be? For example, in an office one wants investigates the molecular mechanisms that regulate the cell all of the workers to be able to attend all their scheduled cycle, an integral system that, when it goes awry, may cause meetings. What is the fewest number of time slots the cancer. As a translational biologist, John is using human cell company needs to get all of its meetings accomplished? lines and animal models to develop a safer but more potent Another example is determining how few numbers a credit chemotherapeutic strategy to treat breast cancer. Finally, as a card can have to avoid transcription errors. Mike enjoys public health educator, John is in constant communication with exercising, reading, and cooking. community members to raise awareness about the dangers Benefits to Society: associated with late-stage cancer detection, as well as the Graph theory has many applications in the real world, from cutting-edge medical breakthroughs that can help patients. scheduling, to route-planning, to modeling social and Benefits to Society: information networks, to understanding atomic structure. In Everyone deserves a long and fulfilling life that should not be addition, his area of research has applications to other areas of shortened by cancer. John hopes that the research he conducts mathematics, and one can use this theory to solve problems in today can lend insights into how cancer develops, and how it fields seemingly unrelated to it. Furthermore, the applications may be treated. But John also understands that being sick is are interdisciplinary. His research area builds cryptography and more than just about biology and economy. It is also about the electrical engineering. family and soul. Thus, John hopes that by taking several Awards and Honors: approaches to studying cancer, his therapies will be able to David A. Sharp Academic Excellence Award for Men's treat the disease and the patient for what they are, as they are. Track/Cross-Country Awards and Honors: Clarks Award: Presented only when a senior majoring in Scripps Translational Science Institute’s TL1 Fellowship, 2013 mathematics has unusual ability in the area Ellen Browning Scripps Foundation Fellowship, 2013 Stephen J. Wolfe Memorial Scholarship: Awarded to a student R. Daviline Carter Presidential Award for Best Manuscripts, 2nd who has demonstrated both love and talent for the subject place, 2013 ESPN the Magazine Academic All-American Nominee Richard G. Lambert Foundation for Education Award, 2012 Publications and Posters: Biological Sciences Student Association Service Award, 2011 Cioaba, S.M.; Tait, M.; More counterexamples to the Alon-Saks- Publications and Posters: Seymour Conjecture and the Rank-Coloring Conjecture. Electronic J. Comb. 2011, P26, 1—9. Tat et al. Strategy for disseminating tobacco control information to Asians and Pacific Islanders. J Canc Educ. Cioaba, S.M.; Tait, M.; Variations on a theme of Graham and advance online publication, 28 Jun 2014. Pollak. Disc. Math. 2013, 313-5, 665—676. Tait, M.; Timmons, C.; Sidon sets and graphs without 4-cycles. del Rincón et al. Cks overexpression enhances J. Comb. 2014, 5-2, 155—165. chemotherapeutic efficacy by overriding DNA damage checkpoints. Oncogene. advance online publication, 26 May 2014; doi:10.1038/onc.2014.1377.

Farber-Katz et al. DNA damage triggers Golgi dispersal via DNA-PK and GOLPH3. Cell. 2014 Jan 30:156(3):413-27.

Zheng et al. A posttranslational modification cascade involving p38, Tip60, and PRAK mediates oncogene-induced senescence. Mol Cell. 2013 Jun 6;50(5):699-710. 32 CALI TURNER TOMASZEWICZ STEPHANIE WENG University of California, San Diego University of California, San Diego Division of Biological Sciences Biomedical Sciences Graduate Degrees: Program, School of Medicine MAS in Marine Biodiversity and Degrees: Conservation, University of California, San Diego, Scripps Institution of B.S. in Microbiology, University of Oceanography California, Santa Barbara B.S. in Environment, Economics & Scholar Sponsor: Politics, Claremont McKenna College Scholar Sponsors: ARCS Foundation ARCS Foundation and ARCS Endowment Fund About the Scholar: About the Scholar: Stephanie is investigating the mechanisms of t(8;21) Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) development. She is particularly Cali uses two techniques, skeletochronology and stable isotope analysis, to investigate the migration and habitat-use patterns of interested in understanding how loss of a sex chromosome, two endangered species of sea turtles in the Pacific, the green which is observed in around 50% of these patients, turtle (Chelonia mydas) and the loggerhead turtle (Caretta caretta). contributes to the disease. The goal of her research is to These turtles are listed as endangered on the International Union broaden our current understanding of and reveal important for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List and by the U.S. genes and/or pathways that are involved in driving this Endangered Species Act (ESA). Both are significantly impacted by disease. With this new knowledge, the hope is that fisheries along the West Coast of the U.S. and Mexico. Her research is focused on helping to reduce the impact of these improved therapeutic strategies can be developed to more fisheries on the protected sea turtle populations. This research is specifically and efficiently target this form of cancer. conducted in partnership with NOAA’s National Marine Fisheries Stephanie enjoys live music, going to the beach, traveling, Service, and findings from Cali’s research are directly applied to and trying new food. national and international conservation management. Benefits to Society: Benefits to Society: Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is the most common form of Cali’s research focuses on two populations of endangered sea turtle leukemia affecting adults. The t(8;21) mutation is observed species: the green turtle (Chelonia mydas) and the loggerhead turtle (Caretta caretta), which inhabit the Eastern Pacific Ocean and are in around 12-15% of AML patients. Although t(8;21) AML is protected under the Endangered Species Act. Effective conservation considered to be a good-prognosis leukemia, there has of these long-lived animals is limited by our lack of understanding been little advancement toward the treatment of this of where in the ocean these animals live, and for how long they disease and around 50% of patients eventually relapse. inhabit each of these ocean regions. These are important aspects to Stephanie’s research aims to improve our understanding of understand, because the threats the animals encounter – like fishing disease development and progression so that novel nets, pollution, and boat strikes – all differ among different habitats (open ocean vs. near shore regions). By using the humerus bones targeted t(8;21) AML therapies can be developed in efforts from dead-stranded marine turtles, Cali is uncovering patterns of to reduce relapse rates. these animal’s habitat use, age, and overall life history patterns. She Awards and Honors: recently determined that loggerhead turtles spend over 20 years in a specific high bycatch region near Baja, Mexico, and this results in a NIH Cancer Cell Biology Training Grant less than 10% chance of these turtles reaching maturity. This work Best Poster Award at the Biomedical Sciences Program has since been applied to critical international management efforts, Retreat as it emphasizes the importance of protecting these turtles while they inhabit this very important specific habitat. Current work is Publications and Posters: directed at similar objectives for green turtles in the eastern Pacific. Weng S.; Matsuura S.; Mowery C.; Lam K.; Scholl, A.; Lo Awards and Honors: M.C.; Zhang D.E. AML1-ETO Hematopoietic Stem Progenitor UCSD NIH Cellular and Molecular Genetics Training Grant Cells display a hypersensitivity to GM-CSF which reduces NOAA NMFS Stock Assessment Improvement Plan leukemogenic potential. (In preparation) Archie Carr Student Award for Best Biology Oral Presentation; 2014 Sea Lam K.; Muselman A.; Du R.; Harada Y.; Yan M.; Matsuura S.; Turtle Biology & Conservation Symposium Jeanne Messier Memorial Fellowship Weng S.; Harada H.; Zhang D.E. Hmga2 is a direct target Hearts di Vite Research Scholarship gene of RUNX1 and regulates expansion of myeloid progenitors. Blood. 2014, 124(14), 2203-12. Publications and Posters: Arimoto K.; Burkart C.; Yan M.; Ran D.; Weng S.; Zhang D.E. Turner Tomaszewicz, C.; Seminoff, J.A. Turning off the heat: impacts of power plant decommissioning on green turtle research. Coastal Management Journal 2012, Plakophilin-2 Promotes Tumor Development by Enhancing 40(1):73-87. Ligand Dependent and -Independent Epidermal Growth Turner Tomaszewicz, C.; Seminoff, J.A.; Avens, L.A.; Goshe, L.R.; Peckham, S.H.; Kurle, C.M. Habitat use of north pacific loggerhead turtles (Caretta caretta) and Factor Receptor Dimerization and Activation. Molecular and duration spent in a bycatch hotspot area near Baja California Peninsula using skeletochronology and stable isotope analysis. Sea Turtle Biology & Conservation Cellular Biology. 2014, 34(20), 3843-54. Symposium, New Orleans, LA.; April 14-18 2014. Dekelver R.C.; Lewin B.; Weng S.; Yan M.; Biggs J.; Zhang Turner Tomaszewicz, C.N.; Seminoff, J.A.; Avens, L.A.; Goshe, L.R.; Peckham, S.H.; Rodriguez-Baron, J.M.; Bickerman, K.; Kurle, C.M. Determining age and residency D.E. RUNX1-ETO induces a type I interferon response which duration of loggerhead turtles at a North Pacific bycatch hotspot using skeletochronology. (In Preparation). negatively effects t(8;21)-induced increased self-renewal Turner Tomaszewicz, C.N.; Seminoff, J.A.; Ramirez, M.; Kurle, C.M. A standardized and leukemia development. Leukemia & Lymphoma. 2014, method for sequentially sampling annual bone growth layers for stable isotope analysis. (In Preparation). 55(4), 884-891. 33 MATTHEW WINGERT CHRISTINE WITTICH University of California, San Diego University of California, San Diego Jacobs School of Engineering Jacobs School of Engineering Degrees: Degrees: M.S. in Mechanical Engineering, M.S. in Structural Engineering, University of California, San Diego University of California, San Diego B.S. in Civil and Environmental B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Engineering, Lafayette College University of California, Santa Barbara Scholar Sponsors: Scholar Sponsor: ARCS Foundation/Betty Jo Williams Marti & Larry Showley About the Scholar: About the Scholar: Christine studies the response of large, freestanding Matthew studies nanoscale materials that are 1000s of structures to seismic excitation. This class of structures times thinner than the thickness of a human hair. At these includes various mechanical and electrical equipment, nuclear sizes (10-100 nanometers or billionths of a meter), the radiation shields, as well as marble statues. These structures have repeatedly been shown to respond poorly during post- physical properties of the material are highly dependent on earthquake reconnaissance. In an effort to develop predictive size and shape compared to macroscopic (observable with tools for their seismic response, Christine has conducted the naked eye) scale versions, such as their ability to extensive shake table testing campaigns at UC San Diego’s transfer heat. His goal is to measure the properties of Powell Laboratory. The results of these experiments are used nanostructures at these small scales and discover the exact to validate three-dimensional multi-modal numerical models. effects of size constraints on their ability to transport heat. Her primary objective is to develop a series of easy-to-use predictive tools for the non-engineering community as well as Benefits to Society: recommended actions for seismic mitigation. Outside of the laboratory, Christine enjoys running, cooking, and spending At the nanoscale, the properties of materials can vary greatly time with friends and family. from that of their bulk counterparts. By studying the changes in these properties in materials at smaller length scales, we Benefits to Society: can identify and understand new physical phenomena. As Recent earthquakes highlight the vulnerability of nanostructures are confined to smaller sizes, heat transport freestanding structures to even moderate seismic events in through the structures becomes greatly reduced or increased which no damage to buildings is observed. Failure of these structures can result in reduced functionality of critical compared to macroscopic materials. Matthew’s goal is to facilities (e.g. hospitals), damage to an irreplaceable artifact, measure the thermal properties of nanomaterials at new size and even loss of life. These freestanding structures are scales, as small as several nanometers, and improve our typically not designed to withstand earthquakes. understanding of nanoscale heat transport. Furthermore, maintenance of these components is typically handled by non-engineers. Christine’s research aims to Awards and Honors: further understand the behavior of these complex structures, Initiation into Tau Beta Pi honor society. develop predictive tools that determine their vulnerability, and provide recommendations as to their restraint to Publications and Posters: preclude failure during future earthquakes. Wingert, M. C.; Chen, Z. C. Y.; Dechaumphai, E.; Moon, J.; Awards and Honors: Kim, J.; Xiang, J.; Chen, R. Thermal Conductivity of Ge and Ge-Si Core-Shell Nanowires in the Phonon Confinement National Science Foundation Integrative Graduate Research and Education Traineeship Regime. Nano Lett. 2011, 11, 5507-5513. Poster Award, Jacobs School of Engineering Research Expo Wingert, M. C.; Chen, Z. C. Y.; Kwon, S.; Xiang, J.; Chen, R. 2013 Ultra-sensitive Thermal Conductance Measurement of One- The Moles National Construction Organization Scholarship dimensional Nanostructures Enhanced by Differential Bridge. Rev. Sci. Instrum. 2012, 83, 024901. Marquis Scholar, Lafayette College Sigma Xi Zheng, J.; Wingert, M. C.; Dechaumphai, E.; Chen, R. Sub- picowatt/kelvin resistive thermometry for probing Publications and Posters: nanoscale thermal transport. Rev. Sci. Instrum. 2013, 84, Wittich, C.E.; Hutchinson, T.C. Shake table tests of stiff, unattached, 114901. asymmetric structures. Earthquake Eng. Struct. Dyn. (submitted) Zhong, Z.; Wingert, M. C.; Strzalka, J.; Wang, H. H.; Sun, T.; Wittich, C.E.; Hutchinson, T.C.; Wood, R.L.; Seracini, M.; Kuester, F. Wang, J.; Chen, R.; Jiang, Z. Structure-induced Characterization of Full-Scale Human-Form Culturally Important Statues: enhancement of thermal conductivities in electrospun A Case Study. J. Comput. Civ. Eng. (submitted) polymer nanofibers. Nanoscale 2014, 6, 8283-8291. Wittich, C.E.; Hutchinson, T.C. Development of a Rocking-Period Centered Protocol for Shake Table Testing of Unattached Stiff Components. Proceedings of 10th National Conference in Earthquake Engineering, 2014. Wittich, C.E.; Hutchinson, T.C. Computing Geometric and Mass Properties of Statues for Rigid Body Rocking Analysis. Proceedings of ASCE International Workshop on Computing in Civil Engineering, 2013.

34 What Does this Award Mean to You?

Grant Allen healthcare. It also means that I can focus my energy on This award is extremely honoring. It’s the first serious successfully completing the PhD program with less award I’ve ever received (and possibly the best I could). financial burden. I accept it as a portent for even stronger and more valuable research still to come. Eiren Jacobson The ARCS Foundation award will allow me to pursue Monica Chu research projects that will improve the quality of my I am thankful for the generosity of the ARCS doctoral dissertation and to travel to conferences that I Foundation and ARCS sponsors. It means a lot to me would otherwise be unable to attend. This award will that people continue to believe in me as a young significantly impact my career by allowing me to researcher, and I feel grateful to be renewed as an produce high-quality science and to share that science ARCS scholar this year. The Award will lessen my with colleagues at national and international meetings. financial burden, enabling me to attend and present my research at conferences this year. Trevor Joyce I am very honored and grateful for the interest shown Mike Denny, Jr. by the ARCS Foundation in my graduate education and I am honored to have been chosen for this award. I am research projects. This award has provided wonderful excited to have the opportunity to share my science and opportunities to meet interesting colleagues across learn about the work of other awardees. I believe that many disciplines. I also am very grateful for the ARCS beyond doing the science, effective communication of funding that has allowed me to travel to several that science outside of the lab is essential and, as conferences that have expanded my professional scientists, it is our responsibility to society to do so. This network. award helps address the practical concerns of graduate school, so that I can continue to do good work and Colette Smirniotis communicate it beyond the lab. I am truly excited and honored to be the recipient of an ARCS Foundation Award. Being named an ARCS Danielle Grotjahn Scholar puts me among an impressive group of peers I am extremely grateful to receive the ARCS Foundation and gives me access to a network of professionals.This award. This prestigious award will not only open up new award puts me closer to my career goals both in and exciting networking possibilities for me, but it will alleviating some of the financial pressures that come also help ease the financial burden I face while pursuing with being a student and also in the prestige associated my PhD. As a student growing up with a disadvantaged with an award from a national foundation. economic background, I assumed full responsibility to pay for my education and living expenses since Stephen Rice graduating high school. As an undergraduate, I received The ARCS Foundation award is an honor which has several scholarships and grants to help pay for my played a significant role in my education and research. It undergraduate tuition; however I still had to take out has allowed me to support myself during field research, student loans to offset tuition costs. The award will expand my research sites, obtain additional training in alleviate some of the financial stress I have faced laboratory and analytical methods, and allow time in my throughout my life and also will allow me to pay off schedule for the mentoring of undergraduates.This student loan debt while in graduate school. award has meant that I’ve not had to pursue extracurricular employment and instead I have been Deanna Johnston able to focus on my long-term career goals as well offer The ARCS scholarship is an honor to receive. It first and advanced training and mentoring to my lab mates and foremost means that I get to be a voice for the nursing undergraduates interested in molecular genetics profession in the specialty of research. I am honored to projects. Thus this award has not only had positive be able to spread the word about the importance of impacts within my own life, but its area of effect has research in the nursing profession and the world of been extended to other students as well.

35 ARCS® Foundation, Inc. Achievement Rewards for College Scientists

About Us ARCS Foundation is a nonprofit organization founded and administered entirely by women who see a national problem and are taking the initiative to try to solve it. The organization’s aim is to address this country's most critical competitiveness issue: the serious shortage of American scientists and engineers. We address this issue by providing financial awards and encouragement to men and women working to complete their degrees in science, engineering, and medical research.

Since its founding in 1958, ARCS Foundation has grown to 16 chapters nationally and invested more than $91 million in the potential of nearly 9,000 of the most outstanding American graduate and undergraduate Scholars in science, engineering and medical research at 54 of the country's top research universities. Since 1985, the San Diego chapter alone has contributed nearly $9 million in support of Scholars at our four ARCS-approved recipient institutions:

San Diego State University • The Scripps Research Institute University of California, San Diego • University of San Diego

We are very proud of what ARCS Foundation has accomplished. We know that we have a mission that is important to our country's economic recovery, our global tech- nological leadership, and ultimately the well- being and quality of life for all people. ARCS Mission ARCS Foundation advances About Our Scholars science and technology in the ARCS Scholars represent an elite group of United States by providing financial students selected by their faculty for their awards to academically outstanding recognized achievements and for their U.S. citizens studying to complete exceptional promise to contribute degrees in science, engineering substantially to their fields. These Scholars represent America’s future. San Diego ARCS and medical research. Scholars can boast of a 98% graduation rate, compared with the national rate for graduate students in the sciences and engineering of 60%. Funds invested in our Scholars pay dividends for generations to come.

Scholar Selection Scholars must be U.S. citizens and meet ARCS-established academic criteria of a 3.5 GPA pursuing undergraduate and graduate degrees in a wide range of subjects. Beyond the general area of science, engineering and medical research, these Scholars are specializing in astronomy, biochemistry, botany, cell and molecular biology, chemistry, computer science, ecology, engineering, genetics, marine biology, mathematics, oceanography, physics and more.

During 2015-2016 ARCS is pleased to support 62 Scholars for a total of $445,000.

36 Ways to Help ARCS Foundation Scholars

100% of each contribution is directed to the Scholar Award Fund.

ARCS Foundation provides a unique vehicle for supporting scholars in science, medicine, and engineering without incurring administrative overhead. Member dues and event underwriting cover all operating expenses, and members donate their time to provide most administrative services.

There are two ways to support ARCS scholars studying to complete their degrees in science, medicine, and engineering. The first is to make an annual gift to the Scholar Award Fund. The entire amount is awarded within a year of receipt. The second way to support scholars is through a gift to the Endowment Fund. The principal continues to accrue interest in perpetuity; scholar awards are made from the interest.

I. Annual Gifts to the Scholar Award Fund Gifts to ARCS Foundation Scholar Award Fund support continuing and new scholars at San Diego State University, The Scripps Research Institute, University of California, San Diego, and University of San Diego. Gifts to the Scholar Award Fund may be made by check, credit card, or through gifts of appreciated securities. Gifts received during the fiscal year (July 1 - June 30) are awarded at the beginning of the following academic year.

II. Gifts to ARCS Foundation Endowment Fund Gifts to ARCS Foundation Endowment build an investment fund, the earnings of which provide a permanent source of income essential for supporting a portion of the Award Fund in perpetuity. Whenever an Endowment grows by $150,000, the interest earned generates a $7,500 award. The Virginia Lynch Grady Fund, the Wally Schirra Memorial Endowment Fund and the ARCS Endowment Fund are examples of permanently endowed Scholar Awards.

ARCS Legacy Society: ARCS Legacy Society comprises donors who have provided for ARCS Foundation in their estate plans, thereby insuring the future of ARCS Scholars. For further information about how to become a member of the Legacy Society, contact Patty Fuller at (858) 336-8191.

Memorial & Honorary Gifts: Gifts may be made in memory of a loved one or in recognition of an individual on the occasion of a birthday, anniversary, or special event. All memorials and honoraria help build the Endowment. To Give Online

Go to the ARCS website: www.arcsfoundation.org/san_diego. Click the turquoise “Donate” button found at the bottom of this homepage. Then click the blue “Donate Now” button found at the bottom of the linked page.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: Mary Fitz | President | [email protected] | (619) 298-7193 or Joy Kirsch | Vice President, Fund Development | [email protected] | (858) 453-5449

ARCS Foundation, Inc., San Diego Chapter | P.O. Box 8394, Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067-8394 Website: www.arcsfoundation.org/san_diego | Email: [email protected]

A Nonprofit Charitable Organization | Federal I.D. No. 33-0164533 | Corporate No. 1367672

37 ARCS® Foundation, Inc., San Diego Chapter MAJOR DONORS Cumulative Gifts 1985 through June 2015

STELLAR BENEFACTORS – $1,000,000 AND ABOVE The Reuben H. Fleet Foundation Fund Virginia Lynch Grady

GALAXY BENEFACTOR – $500,000 AND ABOVE The Donald C. & Elizabeth M. Dickinson Foundation

ALBERT EINSTEIN PATRON – $250,000 - $499,999 Blasker-Rose-Miah Fund International Systems, LLC/ Allan Wegner and Bob Whalen

THOMAS EDISON PATRON – $100,000 - $249,999 The Thomas C. Ackerman Foundation Dale & Marge Myers Fund The Beyster Family Foundation Margaret L. Roulette The Favrot Fund Ellen Browning Scripps Foundation Kathryn Crippen Hattox Fund Timken-Sturgis Foundation Hervey Family Non-endowment Fund Union Bank The Legler Benbough Foundation WD-40 Company

MARIE CURIE CIRCLE – $50,000 - $99,999 Carlos & Sharon Arbelaez Jack Heckel The Atkinson Family Foundation Jackie Leisz Emily Bagnall The Collins Companies Foundation/Diane & Tyler Miller Karen & Bob Bowden/Bowden Family Foundation The Parker Foundation Cubic Corporation Pfizer La Jolla Cymer, Inc. Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC) Dr. Charles C. & Sue K. Edwards Foundation Marti & Larry Showley Samuel H. French III & Katherine Weaver French Fund/ Pat & Bob Whalen Maurice J. Masserini Charitable Trust Betty Jo & Hal Williams Cecil & Ida Green Foundation

GALILEO CIRCLE – $25,000 - $49,999 Charles and Ruth Billingsley Foundation Dr. & Mrs. William McColl Kenneth & Marjorie Blanchard Nancy and Bill Norgren The Burnham Foundation Oak Industries Conexant Systems, Incorporated Thomas and Audrey Pine Foundation The Education Financing Foundation of California Mrs. Walter J. Podbielniak Becki and Ed Etess The George Smedes Poyner Foundation Jeanette Foushee Mrs. Donald Roon/Roon Foundation, Inc. The Samuel I. & John Henry Fox Foundation Lois S. Thompson Connie K. Golden The Thursday Club Foundation The Heller Foundation of San Diego Titan Corporation Janet and Dan La Marche The Robert G. and Gloria R. Wallace Family Lambert Foundation for Education at Union Bank Wells Fargo Bank

Our greatest gratitude to these major donors who have made a significant contribution to the future of science, engineering and medicine by supporting ARCS Scholars.

=The San Diego Foundation = Fund Managed by Union Bank

The above amounts include donations to the ARCS Awards and Endowment Funds.

38 2014-2015 Donor Honor Roll

SAN DIEGO CHAPTER • JULY 1, 2014 – JUNE 30, 2015 Gifts received for awards to be made in the Academic Year 2015 - 2016

$50,000 The Burnham Foundation Christine Andrews Lynne Martin Reuben H. Fleet Joyce Butler Linda Andrews Adrienne McCullough Foundation Fund Joan and Milt Evangelou Lyndsey Arendsee Dr. and Mrs. William McDade Sally and Parker Finch Katherine Armagnac Kimberly Miller Kim Barrett $30,000 Nancy Reed Gibson Diane and Ty Miller William Beamer Hervey Family The Ellen Kathleen Glynn Ellen Moxham Beth Bernstein Non-endowment Fund Foundation Jim Beyster Priscilla Moxley Betty Harriman Jillian Mullen $22,500 Gerry Black Andrew Hewitt Kathryn Murphy Beyster Family Pamela Boyton Foundation Fund IV Greg Lucier Betty Brayshay Gail Naughton VADM and Mrs. William Joy Brown Steve Nielander McCauley $15,000 Alice Brown Perry Nisen The Donald C. & Elizabeth M. Barbara and Kathleen Buoymaster Ann Otterson Dickinson Foundation Dr. William McColl Suzanne Camilli Gene Pastula Richard Cassoni The Roche Foundation Helga Moore Betty L. Peabody Virginia Chasey Ellen Browning Scripps Dale and Marge Myers Fund Peter Pierce Foundation Nuvasive, Inc. Perry Colapinto Jean and Michael Collins Sue Pondrom Marti and Frank Panarisi Gordon Cooke Mary Lou and Harry Quick $7,500 - $9,999 Tanya Schierling Andrea Correnti Sharon Rhodes The Thomas C. Ackerman Dr. Jane K. Smith Foundation Martha Dennis Edwina Riblet Patricia Brander Stewart Suzanne Dixon Sharon and Carlos Arbelaez Jennifer Roach Judge and Mrs. Gordon Kimberly Doren The Blanchard Foundation Dr. Linda Roux Thompson, Jr. Berit Durler Cymer, Inc. Carol Rumsey RADM and Mrs. Guy Zeller German Eichberger The San Diego Foundation The Farrell Family Foundation Ann Estee Dottie Georgens Jerrie L. Schmidt $500 - $999 Jeanette Foushee Kathryn Crippen Hattox Mrs. John F. Shaw Barbara and Charles Arledge Rachel C. Friedman The Heller Foundation Ann Silliman-Holmes Nancy Lee Bildsoe James Friel of San Diego Diane Annala Chalmers Frank Frye Leslie Smart Lambert Foundation for Kim Fuller Marianne Sorge Education at Union Bank June Chocheles Barbara Doren Patti Fuller Ann Steck Marti and Larry Showley Doris and Peter K. Ellsworth Chris Glemotski Ilene Swartz The Timken-Sturgis Foundation Becky Etess Christine Gutheil Karen and Don Tartre WD-40 Company Mary and Dr. David Fitz Peggy Hanley Paula A. Taylor Leslie Harrington Joy Frye Sally Thomas Barbara and James Hartung $5,000 - $7,499 Dr. Cindy Goodman Mary Walshock Bea Hadinger Jan Hawkins Cindy and John Glancy David P. Wells Helen W. and Peggy Hanley Phyllis Haynes Pat Whalen Webster B. Kinnaird Sandra Harris Christopher Hebert Elizabeth (B.J.) Williams Holly Heaton Nancy Herrington Virginia Whitelock Mara and Larry Ybarrondo Marjorie J. and Paul W. Hebert, Reena Horowitz Karen Winson Jr. Ethel W. Iverson Julie Wright Norma Hidalgo del Rio Nancy B. James $2,500 - $4,999 Ann Hill Kim and Fred Johnson Karen and Bob Bowden Peter Ho Susan Jones =The San Diego The Samuel I. and John Linda Johnson Joy Kirsch Foundation Henry Fox Foundation Lockheed Martin Dr. Candace Kohl = Fund managed by Union Bank Susan Hoekenga Mary and Dan Mulvihill Stella Larsen and Edward Gergosian Gloria McColl Powell Yvonne Larsen The Arthur and Jeanette Astrid Shannon Jeanne and Bill Larson The amounts above include donations Pratt Memorial Fund Bobbie and Richard Vandervoort Robert Lawson to the ARCS Foundation Scholar Gayle Wilson Sharon LeeMaster Award Fund, Endowment, and John Love Memorial Funds as of $1,000 - $2,499 Up to $499 Robin and Chuck Luby June 30, 2015. Janet Allison Connie Adelman Karen Ludwig See an error or omission? Please Emily T. Bagnall Benedict Adelson Deborah and Fred Mandabach contact Norma Hidalgo del Rio Barbara Bry and Neil Senturia Nancy Anderson Diane J. Marinos [email protected]

39 2015-2016 Community Advisory Council

The purpose of ARCS® Foundation, Inc. San Diego Chapter Community Advisory Council (CAC) is to assist the organization in achieving its mission. The CAC is composed of distinguished professionals drawn from diverse science and technology industries represented in San Diego. Through the members of the Council, the chapter has access to a larger network of individuals, businesses and professional organizations interested in the advancement of science and technology. They help the chapter accomplish its goals, promote activities and facilitate fundraising. For the ARCS Scholar, the Council organizes activities that enrich the Scholars’ professional experience and serves as a bridge to the entrepreneurial community. We thank them for their continued support.

Diane Klotz, Director, Office of Training & Academic Services, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute Chairman

Dr. Stephie Althouse, CEO Coach & Visiting CEO

Jon Berg-Johnsen, Corporate Business Development, Lockheed Martin Corporation

Liisa Bovinovic, Executive Director, BIOCOM Institute

Nicholas Burchfield, Director, Corporate and Foundation Relations, The Scripps Research Institute

Willliam Burfitt, Executive Director, Development, Jacobs School of Engineering

Katie Collins, Director of Development, J. Craig Venter Institute

Maria Fischer, CEO, Bientech International

Patty Fuller, Philanthropy Consultant, Fuller Communications

Suzanne Graham, Sr. Manager, Business Development, Genection

Andrew Hewitt, Managing Partner, Continuity Partners, LLC

Pat Kelly, Vice President, Educational Committee Chair, Sonalysts, Inc., & VP of Education, AFCEA

Terry Magee, Consultant, Defense Sector

Terry McKearney, President, The Ranger Group

Ginny Merrifield, Chief Operating Officer, CONNECT

Terry Moore, Managing Partner, Moore Venture Partners LP

Karen Winston, VP Partnerships, POSIBA

40 2015-2016 ARCS® Membership

Connie Adelman Patricia Carroll “Patty” Fuller * Helga S. Moore Janet Allison Holli Garrett Ellen Moxham Nancy Anderson * Dottie Georgens Priscilla Moxley Mary Beal Angel Nancy Reed Gibson Mary Mulvihill * Sharon Arbelaez Cindy Goodman Janet Munson Barbara Arledge Beatrice "Bea" Hadinger Toni Woodward Nickell Katherine “Kit” Armagnac * Margaret "Peggy" Hanley Marti Panarisi Rita Atkinson Betty Harriman Betty Peabody Emily Bagnall Sandra Harris Chan Poyner Pike Pat Beck Kathryn "Kathy" Hattox * Sue Pondrom Betty Beyster Phyllis Haynes Gloria D. McColl Powell Judy Bieler Holly Heaton * Mary Lou Quick Nancy Lee Bildsoe * Marge Hebert Paula Ray Marla B. Black Joanne Herrin Sharon Lee Rhodes Karen Bowden Nancy Herrington Edwina Riblet Elizabeth "Betty" Brayshay Norma Hidalgo Del Rio Laurie Roeder * Alice Brown Ann Hill Margaret “Marge” Roulette Joy Brown Jeri Hirshman Linda Roux Barbara Bry Ann Silliman Holmes Carol Rumsey Kathleen "Kathy" Buoymaster Sandra Fleet Honnen Mary Sadler Sue Busby Reena Horowitz * Tanya Schierling * Diane Annala Chalmers Elizabeth "Betty" Hubbard Jerrie Schmidt June Chocheles Coley Hunt Janice "Jan" Shaw Perry Anne Colapinto Ethel W. Iverson Marti Showley Jean Collins Nancy James Betty Simm Linda Copson * Linda Johnson Jane Smith Andrea L. “Andy” Correnti * Joy S. Kirsch Patricia Brander "Pat" Stewart Carolyn Patton Detwiler Candace Kohl Tamia E. Strachan Suzanne Dixon-Hennessy Maureen Lamberti Ilene Swartz Barbara Doren Sharon LeeMaster Jean Talbot Kim Doren Ann Lemke Karen M. Tartre Berit Durler Nicola Green Lerner Sarah Margaret “Sally” Thomas Carolyn Elledge-Baker Jacqueline “Jackie” Linstrom Jean Thompson Doris Ellsworth Robin Briscoe Luby Lois S. Thompson Becki Etess Karon T. Luce Barbara “Bobbie” Vandervoort Joan Evangelou Karen Ludwig Walther-Meade, Yolanda Jane Fetter Mary E. Lyons Pattie Wellborn Sally Shafer Finch Deborah Mandabach Betty Jo "BJ" Williams ** Mary Fitz Diane Marinos Gayle Wilson Georg’Ann Fletcher Lynne Martin Mara Ybarrondo Karen Fontana Mary Ann McCauley Britt Zeller Jeanette Foushee Barbara McColl Marye Anne Fox Carol McDade Rachel Collins Friedman Diane Miller Joy Frye Kimberly Miller

** President * Board of Directors