Major: Engineering Science
Class of 2023
Hometown: Maspeth, NY
My name is Gabriela Zanko and I am a junior Engineering Science major on the pre-med track in the Honors College. I was born in Poland, and currently live in Maspeth, a small town in Queens. I joined SBYIR because I enjoy writing/editing as well as learning about new research, so becoming an Associate Editor seemed like the perfect fit. Aside from my interest in the sciences, I enjoy singing and attend SBU’s Gospel Choir rehearsals. In high school, I worked on a research project involving bilingualism and lexical access, and I hope to continue that line of research or discover something new I’m interested in here at SBU. In my spare time, I enjoy having spontaneous dance breaks from homework and singing karaoke with my suitemates.

Major: Computer Science
Class of 2024
Hometown: Manhattan, NY
Hey! I’m Jessica Yeung, a second-year Computer Science major who was lucky enough to join this wonderful team as Head of Cabinet. I originally joined SBYIR to gain more experience with research and management, both of which I found in addition to a lovely found family (and surprise event coordination responsibilities ಥ_ಥ). In addition to the website and newsletter management I do here, lately I’ve been particularly interested in software development. I also love to paint and draw traditional art in my free time and have been getting into badminton more seriously. I’m an avid rhythm game player and horror game enthusiast. If you ever see me or just want to hang out with someone, genuinely hit me up anytime! 🙂

Major: Applied Math and Statistis
Class of 2023
Hometown: Setauket, NY
Hi! I’m Komal Grewal and I am a third-year student majoring in Applied Math and Statistics with a minor in Digital Art in the University Scholars program. I was born in India, immigrated to Charleston, South Carolina with my parents when I was two years old, and moved to NY at six. I joined the layout staff of SBYIR during my freshman year to work towards fulfilling my perpetual quest for a creative outlet. As the Editor-in-Chief of my high school’s literary magazine, I loved designing a magazine, and being surrounded by scientific research from an early age allowed me to develop a loving interest in STEM. SBYIR allowed me to combine both of my passions, so joining was a no-brainer. Outside of SBYIR, I am a layout editor/graphic designer for the SB Press and an off-campus magazine called EARTHZine. I am also a member of SBU Just For Kidz and SBU Bhangra. In my free time, I enjoy watching vintage films, exploring new places, reading, learning to box, and listening to some groovy tunes.

Major: Biology
Class of 2023
Hometown: Brooklyn, NY
My name is Nicole Gladstein, and I am a senior biology major on the pre-med track in the Honors College. I joined SBYIR because it combined my love for science and research with my interest in journalism and editing. Being able to contribute to the journal while also learning a lot from each issue is really exciting. Outside of SBYIR, I’m an EMT with the Stony Brook Volunteer Ambulance Corps, conduct research with the SBU iGEM team, and I love to draw and watch Netflix in my free time.

Major: Psychology & Economics
Class of 2023
Hometown: Roslyn Heights, NY
My name is Farah Hasan, and I am a senior double majoring in psychology and economics in the WISE honors program. I joined SBYIR because I believe scientific literacy is an important part of being informed (especially at a research university like Stony Brook), and SBYIR effectively achieves this by integrating scientific professionalism with a conversational air. Outside of SBYIR, I am involved in psychology and behavioral science research at the Mind-Body Clinical Research Center and I volunteer at Stony Brook Hospital. In my free time, I like to do photography, visit new places both near and far, and spend time with my family!

Major: Health Science
Class of 2023
Hometown: St. Louis, MO
My name is Colin St. Aubin and I’m a Health Science major. I am very passionate about the work we do at SBYIR because scientific literacy and accessibility is very important in an time where misinformation runs rampant, so guiding people through reading the research for themselves has never been more vital. Outside of SBYIR I am a competitive curler (yes that goofy sport with the ice and the brooms).

Major: Biology
Class of 2025
Hometown: Brooklyn, NY
Hello! My name is Yun Meng, and I am a biology major who aspires to pursue a career in the medical field. SBYIR is the perfect bridge that connects my passions in STEM and academic writing. I find satisfaction in learning about different aspects of scientific writing/research that I have never been exposed to before and engaging with different kinds of people to perfect them. In my spare time, I enjoy reading mystery/thriller novels, spending time with friends and family, and taking long naps!

Major: Creative Writing & Marine Sciences
Class of 2024
Hometown: Queens, NY
My interest in the field of scientific communication can be traced back to my majors: creative writing and marine science. SBYIR, as a scientific magazine, is the perfect link between the two disciplines; working as an associate editor has allowed me to combine my areas of study and use the skills I’m learning to be a part of creating something interesting, informative, and important to our campus community. Scientific writing is its own, unique form of communication, and being a part of SBYIR has taught me how best to use it. Outside of SBYIR, I work at the Recreation and Wellness Center as a lifeguard—and when I’m not doing that, I like to watch TV shows and listen to music.

Major: Biology
Class of 2025
Hometown: Brooklyn, NY
Hi! My name is Rachel Wong, and I am currently majoring in Biology. I believe that SBYIR is an excellent way of providing undergraduate students with resources for scientific research. SBYIR allows students to exercise their scientific research and writing skills on paper, which is always a pleasure to edit. Outside of SBYIR, I enjoy reading, drawing digitally, and I have recently started to learn embroidery!

Major: Technological Systems Management
Class of 2023
Hometown: Fremont, CA
Hi! My name is Andrew Wang and I am a third-year TSM student. I joined SBYIR because I only had writing experience from my courses, and I wanted to expand to writing about scientific topics. Outside of SBYIR, I am currently participating in a VIP robotics team, tutor students in my free time, and enjoy cooking and drawing.

Major: Biology
Class of 2025
Hometown: Sacramento, CA
Hello! My name is Vishruth Nagam, and I am an undergraduate studying biology and music in the Honors College. I am an Associate Editor at SBYIR, and have thoroughly cherished this experience exploring science communication and dissemination. I am an avid student researcher, and enjoy running and playing cricket and badminton in my free time.

Major: Biomedical Engineering
Class of 2024
Hometown: New Hyde Park, NY
My name is Megha Gopal and I am a sophomore biomedical engineering major in the Honors College. SBYIR is a very supportive and fun community of science geeks, so I’m glad I joined this organization right away. In my spare time, I enjoy novels, long walks in the woods, and good company.

Major: Multidisciplinary Studies
Class of 2024
Hometown: Arverne, NY
I associate edit for SBYIR, which means I work one-on-one with a review writer to publish review pieces. I was also a temporary managing editor last semester, which involved polishing lengthy review pieces for clarity of argument. SBYIR is a great place to not only learn about research and improve your writing but also be part of a community. I enjoy the editing process, especially working on citations, organization, and style. In my free time, I like to play music and relax around campus.

Major: Chemistry
Class of 2023
Hometown: New York City, NY
My name is Panayiota Siskos and I am a Chemistry major. Being apart of SBYIR has allowed me to be exposed to the various kinds of new research and advancements being made in different fields, and has continued to foster my love and interest in research. Outside of SBYIR, I am an Editor for the Humanology Project, as well as a member of the Greek and Cypriot Student Association and Biochemistry Society. In my free time I enjoy taking walks, reading, and listening to podcasts.

Major: Biology
Class of 2024
Hometown: Syosset, NY
Hi! My name is Sarah Cheung and I am majoring in Biology with a minor in English. SBYIR has allowed me to discover a community of individuals with similar passions as me, all geared towards the common goal of scientific accessibility. Outside of SBYIR, I am a TA in the chemistry department and enjoy playing the violin, electric guitar, basketball, and badminton.

Major: Physics & Astronomy
Class of 2024
Hometown: Auburndale, NY
I’m Giancarlo Mainardi, a third-year physics and astronomy major and math minor. I was inspired to join SBYIR because it resonates with some of my prior writing experiences and affords the opportunity to share scientific research with a broader audience. I’m also part of the University Scholars program and a member of the Stony Brook Astronomy Club and the Society of Physics Students. During my free time, I enjoy reading science on my own, watching soccer, visiting museums, and playing jazz guitar.

Major: Computer Science & Mathematics
Class of 2024
Hometown: New City, NY
My name is Katherine Wu, and I am a sophomore majoring in Computer Science and Math. SBYIR really fosters a sense of community, and everyone here is passionate about the work they do. Additionally, scientific literacy is important in our present day, teaching us to approach problems through unbiased perspectives and to rationalize thoughts before making informed decisions. For these reasons, I decided to join SBYIR. In my free time, I like listening to music and baking.

Major: Biochemistry
Class of 2023
Hometown: Brooklyn, NY
My name is Karen Lee and I’m a Biochemistry major. Being in SBYIR has allowed me to be exposed to a lot of interesting research and has grown my love for writing. Outside of SBYIR, I spend my time crocheting, reading, and watching cat videos.

Major: Applied Math and Statistics
Class of 2025
Hometown: Queens, NY
Hi! My name is Sarah Aguiar, and I’m a sophomore majoring in Applied Mathematics and Statistics. I joined SBYIR as a copy editor because I’ve loved editing since I started high school and saw this as an amazing opportunity to continue editing in an entirely new environment. Outside of SBYIR, I’m an editor for The Statesman and a math tutor. In my free time, I like reading, working out, and baking.

Major: Applied Mathematics and Statistics
Class of 2026
Hometown: Foshan, China
My name is Xinyi Liu, with preferred name Jessica, and I am a freshman major in Applied Math and Statistic. Through interests in writing professional article, I joined SBYIR as a copy editor. I learnt the important points that should be focus as a writer by the perspective of editor. SBYIR is a lovely community that provide resources and opportunity to study and share writer methods. I am willing to learn every things in the world through curiosity.

Major: Psychology and Globalization Studies & International Relations
Class of 2024
Hometown: Queens, NY
My name is Shreya, and I am a sophomore double majoring in Psychology and Globalization Studies & International Relations. I love how SBYIR provides students with a forum to bond over a shared love of science through its presentation of dense topics as easy-to-digest reading material. As a Peer Reviewer, I enjoy partaking in the editing process and reading the same literature that our writers use in order to ensure the highest level of scientific accuracy. Outside of SBYIR, I am a Research Assistant at a psychology lab, volunteer tutor for K-12 students, and a volunteer with Invisible Hands NYC. I am passionate about cycling, cooking, and baking in my free time.

Major: Biochemistry
Class of 2023
Hometown: Medford, NY
My name is Tharun Alamuri and I am a senior Biochemistry major in the Honors College. I joined SBYIR as a peer reviewer because it seemed like the perfect fit for my interest in research and scientific literature as well as my future career goals. Aside from SBYIR, I am part of the Duong Lab in the Radiology Department (formerly at Stony Brook Medicine, now at Albert Einstein College of Medicine), an Honors College big sibling, a former general chemistry and organic chemistry TA. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with friends and family, watching Indian movies, and playing basketball and cricket.

Major: Political Science
Class of 2024
Hometown: Lake Grove, NY
Hi everyone, my name is Siya Majmundar and I am majoring in political science and have a minor in journalism. I enjoy working at SBYIR because I am able to apply my skills from journalism to peer reviewing which allows me to learn more about peer reviewing as well as enhance my journalism experience. Outside of SBYIR, I enjoy reading, writing, and traveling!

Major: Psychology
Class of 2025
Hometown: Queens, NY
Hi! My name is Aryan and I’m sophomore majoring in Psychology. SBYIR is a great organization because it makes scientific research accessible to a general audience. Outside of school, I enjoy skateboarding, drawing, and playing the guitar.

Major: Health Science
Class of 2023
Hometown: Brooklyn, NY
Hi, my name is Fanny Zhao and I am majoring in Health Science. I joined SBYIR because I wanted to get out of my comfort zone and meet new people while doing something I enjoy. Being a layout editor allows me to bring out my creativity as well as expand my knowledge on science outside of what I learn in my classes. In my free time, I love to binge-watch shows on Netflix and play board games with friends and family.

Major: Computer Science
Class of 2024
Hometown: New Hyde Park, NY
My name is Robin Bath and I’m a sophomore Computer Science major with a minor in Digital Arts. I grew up in Queens moving around a lot and spent a little time in New Jersey as well but now I’m in Long Island. I joined SBYIR as a layout editor because of my love for design and publications. In high school I was chief designer for yearbook and SBYIR was another similar art path for me to continue down. Through SBYIR I am not only combining my love and skills for design, but I’m also learning more about STEM and science research which is new for me. Outside of SBYIR, I’m a graphic designer for the Career Center and do freelance photography for Student Affairs. In my free time I like reading a lot of fantasy and contemporary books, taking pictures of friends, and shopping.

Major: Biology
Class of 2024
Hometown: Queens, NY
My name is Saaya, and I am a senior biology major in the Honors College. I joined SBYIR because of its mission to make science more accessible to the community and being able to merge two of my passions together. Outside of SBYIR, I conduct research in a bioinformatics lab, serve on board of Camp Kesem and Biochemistry Society, and do photography.

Major: Biology
Class of 2024
Hometown: Monroe, NY
Hello, my name is Emma Cherian and I’m a Biology major with a minor in Environmental Design, Policy, and Planning. I think SBYIR is really cool because I like being able to connect art with science, and I love reading magazines! Outside of SBYIR, I love playing tennis and dancing bhangra!

Major: Biology
Class of 2025
Hometown: Valley Stream, NY
Hi! My name is Sophia Camulaire and I am a second-year Biology major and Digital Arts minor student. At SBYIR, I am able to grow my skills in graphic media and layout design. Working with such talented artists has not only shaped my understanding of art but also strengthened my passions in life. Aside from SBYIR, I am the treasurer for B.A.S.I.C., a Christian ministry here at SBU.

Major: Globalization Studies; Biology
Class of 2024
Hometown: Bethpage, NY
I’m Ujala Dar, a sophomore majoring in globalization studies and biology. I think SBYIR is a great way of introducing more people to science and increasing scientific literacy. Outside of SBYIR, I enjoy art and taking walks.

Major: Biology
Class of 2023
Hometown: New Hyde Park, NY
My name is Isra Ahmed, a junior bio major on the pre-med track. Being a graphic editor for SBYIR has allowed me to facilitate scientific literacy, not only for others, but for myself―I look forward to growing with the organization. Outside of SBYIR, I act as a digital artist for SBU’s Artists in Medicine and a Graphic Designer Volunteer for Pre-Health Shadowing. I’m also a member of Stony Brook’s Pre-Med Society and Art Club. Within the realm of academics, I’m a UGTA for CHE331 and BIO201. For fun, I browse through YouTube, draw, and attempt to learn other languages.

Major: Psychology
Class of 2024
Hometown: Brooklyn, NY
Hi, I’m Katie, and I am a third year Psychology B.S. student. I’ve always loved both art and science, and so working with SBYIR allows me to dabble in both at once. Outside of SBYIR, I am primarily working towards my EMT certification. I’m always in search of something new to do for fun, but I always seem to come back to playing the violin and drawing.

Major: Chemistry
Class of 2026
Hometown: Bethpage, NY
Hi! I’m Kristin Phung and I am a freshman student majoring in chemistry on the pre-dental track. Joining SBYIR made me feel comforted that I could connect with those with similar goals and beliefs as I do, especially in the sense that scientific research should be more accessible to the general public. Outside of SBYIR, I perform K-Pop and Korean Hip-Hop dances with the KBS Dance Team and I love to bake, embroider, and watch my favorite shows.

Major: Biochemistry
Class of 2025
Hometown: Queens, NY
Hi! I’m Ishmam. I’m a sophomore studying biochemistry. I was drawn to SBYIR for its mission to increase scientific literacy. I figured that I could combine my two hobbies into creating something bigger than myself. I like to read and play video games in my free time.

Major: Biology
Class of 2023
Hometown: Brooklyn, NY
Hello, my name is Ruiting but you can call me Toby. I’m from Brooklyn and I am majoring in Biology. I joined SBYIR because I thought it was a great platform for young researchers who wanted to show their work to the public. Outside of SBYIR, I enjoy cooking and baking for friends and family.

Major: Chemical & Molecular Engineering
Class of 2024
Hometown: Westchester County, NY
Hey! My name is Rebecca Ramkaran, and I’m currently a sophomore studying Chemical & Molecular Engineering. In the future, I will be pursuing the pharmaceutical route in hopes to obtain a position as research and developmental scientist at a pharmaceutical company. I chose to join SBYIR as an event coordinator because I love organizing, planning, and promoting events. Along with that I love that the events we hold are all STEM related therefore, my knowledge on scientific research and skills continues to expand. During my free time I enjoy going for walks, listening to music, hanging out with friends, and drinking coffee!

Major: Biology
Class of 2025
Hometown: Queens, NY
My name is Nidhi Patel and I am a biology major. I joined SBYIR to explore my interest in STEM research and collaborate with others to share this with the community. In my position, I can not only view the process taken to publish research, but I can also help with the coordination of events and learn how it is done. Outside of SBYIR, I love to read and watch Netflix shows.

Major: Applied Math and Statistics & Economics
Class of 2024
Hometown: Sylhet, Bangladesh
Hi! My name is Mrinaleni Das, and I am a second-year AMS and Economics student. I was born in Bangladesh and later moved to NY with my family. I joined SBYIR because I love learning about new scientific advancements and wanted to meet people who have similar interests. Outside of SBYIR, I interned at Brookhaven national lab, I am currently working as a research intern at Koehler, and I have been a chem UGTA. I sleep, travel, cook, and read in my free time.

Major: Biology
Class of 2024
Hometown: Istanbul, Turkey
Hey! My name is Mualla Dalgin, and I am a junior majoring in Biology. SBYIR has a really welcoming environment and I am happy to be a part of it as an event coordinator. In my free time, I enjoy going into the city and watching films with my friends.

Major: Chemical and Molecular Engineering
Class of 2024
Hometown: Queens, NY
Hello everyone! My name is Samirah Kibria and I am majoring in Chemical and Molecular Engineering. My specialization is in Tissue Engineering. I joined SBYIR because of my interest in scientific research as well as organizing events which is what led me to my position of event coordinator! Outside of SBYIR, I enjoy spending time with friends, watching shows, and going to the city.

Major: Applied Mathematics and Statistics
Class of 2026
Hometown: New Hyde Park, NY
My name is Lydia Wang, and I am a freshman majoring in Applied Math and Stats in the University Scholars program. I joined SBYIR because I had participated in a similar magazine club in high school and wished to continue my interests in making information accessible. Outside of SBYIR, I love to play music on the piano and guitar, reading, and tutor on the side!

Major: Computer Science
Class of 2026
Hometown: Scarsdale, NY
My name is Sora Oba, and I am a freshman majoring in Computer Science with a minor in Music and Technology. I was born in Japan, lived in India for four years, and moved to NY six years ago. I became a Webmaster wanting to gain experience on working a Computer Science related role in a community while connecting my love of reading to an interest in science. Outside of SBYIR, I am an avid reader of fiction and the treasurer of Wagner hall Council.

Major: Biology
Class of 2023
Hometown: New Hyde Park
Hello everyone, my name is Daphne and I’m currently a senior majoring in biology with a neuroscience specialisation and minoring in music. I joined SBYIR because I felt it was the perfect way to combine my interests in science research and writing. Outside of SBYIR I enjoy playing the violin and am a member of the university orchestra. I also spend my time working as a medical scribe at various Urgent cares and a neurology practice.

Major: Applied Mathematics and Statistics
Class of 2026
Hometown: Brooklyn, NY
My name is Angel Xie. I am an applied mathematics and statistics major who is very curious and passionate about research and machine learning. SBYIR provides a great opportunity for me to improve my research writing skills while sharing my interests with others. I hope you will enjoy our publications!

Major: Journalism
Class of 2025
Hometown: North Babylon
My name is Melanie Karniewich and I am a sophomore majoring in Journalism with a minor in Film and Screen Studies. Through SBYIR, I love being able to write about new topics in various science fields and express the new research to the community. With being a student journalist, I have also written at The Statesman and currently volunteer with The Readers of Tomorrow. In my free time I read, listen to music, and hang out with friends.

Major: Biology
Class of 2024
Hometown: Centerreach, NY
Hello! My name is Julia Chivu, and I am a biology major specializing in developmental genetics and minoring in health, medicine, and society. I joined SBYIR because I was looking for an outlet to express my love for writing and STEM. Outside of SBYIR, I am writer for the SBU Humanology Project and I conduct research in the Veeramah lab.

Major: Biochemistry
Class of 2025
Hometown: Holmes, NY
My name is Peter Gillespie, I am a biochemistry student in the Honors College at Stony Brook. I love exploring and learning about all the developing research that is constantly occurring at our campus and beyond. When I’m not writing for SBYIR, however, I’m often found paddle boarding at Stony Brook Harbor!

Major: Biology
Class of 2023
Hometown: Guangzhou, China
Hi! My name is Zhifei Zeng, and I am a senior majoring in biology. I joined SBYIR because of my love for medical research and for science communication. I hope to share more cutting-edge research to the undergraduate community. Outside of SBYIR, I am doing research in a cell biology lab to investigate the invasive behavior of breast cancer. I am also a tutor in the Academic Success and Tutoring Center. In my free time, I enjoy skiing, playing tennis and reading manga!

Majors: Biology, Psychology
Class of 2024
Hometown: Queens, NY
My name is Vignesh (“Vig”) Subramanian and I am a junior Biology B.S. & Psychology B.S. double major in the Honors College and on the pre-medical track. I’m originally from Queens, New York, and currently live in Connecticut. I joined the editorial staff at SBYIR as a research highlight writer because the organization represents a perfect fusion of my interests in exploring scientific literature (with a particular personal focus on neurobiology) and public communication. Outside of SBYIR, I work as an EMS provider and a pediatric mental health advocate with active roles in other student leadership and journal organizations on campus.