Organizing Committee
Organizing Committee
Ginny Kim
- Outreach Chair
- Major: Biological Sciences
- Minor: Cognitive Science, Medical Ethics and Health Policy
- Graduation Year: 2028
- Hometown: Basking Ridge, NJ
- Career Interest:
I plan to pursue a career in Dentistry!
- Fun Fact: I love watching different TV shows with an extensive number of seasons. Some of my top picks are Criminal Minds, Grey’s Anatomy, Modern Family, and the list can keep going…
- Why Research:
My curiosity and love of understanding the unknown behind science grew my interest in Research. As an undergraduate student, it is also such a unique and special experience to be involved in the discovery and learning of new scientific knowledge, and research gives an avenue for that. Especially at Rutgers, the opportunities for students and undergraduates to be involved in Research has been limitless, and I am grateful for the opportunity my lab has given me in not just learning different laboratory techniques, but understanding different scientific topics and giving me an avenue of real world application of concepts from class.
Vivian Yuan
- Outreach Chair
- Major: Biological Sciences
- Graduation Year: 2027
- Hometown: Ridgewood, NJ
- Career Interest:
I am interested in pursuing a career in medicine. Through participating in extracurriculars and volunteering at local hospitals, I have developed a passion for meaningful service and giving back to the community. I hope to utilize my dedication to medicine and science to help others to the best of my ability for a lifetime.
- Fun Fact: I love rock climbing and hiking. I'm always down to climb with anyone, anytime.
- Why Research:
Research has taught me so many life skills that cannot be learned in a classroom. The dedication that my PIs and mentors have towards their research projects is inspiring, and it motivates me to work hard and follow the pursuit of knowledge. Not only have I learned technical skills, but I have also built up soft skills, including collaboration, teamwork, and I am very grateful for all the opportunities I've received to present my work at poster sessions and open mic talks.
Natasha Ahlawat
- Financials Chair
- Major: Biology
- Minor: Animal Science
- Graduation Year: 2027
- Hometown: Livingston, New Jersey
- Career Interest:
I am interested in pursuing a career as a physician, where I can directly engage with patients. I have always been particularly drawn to healthcare because of the strong interpersonal connections that define it, and I hope to use the scientific knowledge I gain along my lifelong journey in medicine to make a meaningful impact in patients’ lives.
- Fun Fact: In my free time, I love to explore, whether that’s traveling somewhere new around the world or just hiking local trails! I enjoy getting to experience new environments and gaining unique perspectives. It allows me to reset and recharge by taking a break from my usual routine.
- Why Research:
I first became involved in research in high school because I just really loved science, and I quickly realized how much I enjoyed it. Getting to ask new questions and actually uncover answers was really exciting for me, and my interest only grew as I developed into a young researcher. Currently, I am studying how pregnancy influences pain perception in the Abraira Lab. It has been really rewarding to work on a project with such tangible clinical relevance, and it has made me more interested in how research can improve patient care.
Saajid Amin
- Logistics Chair
- Major: Cell Biology and Neuroscience
- Minor: Public Health
- Graduation Year: 2028
- Hometown: Saddle Brook, NJ
- Career Interest:
My personal experiences and extracurricular involvement have inspired me to pursue a career in medicine. Through my club and work experiences, I've developed a deep desire to serve and uplift all communities through healthcare. I hope to make a meaningful impact by improving access to care and advocating for those who need it most.
- Fun Fact: I'm a huge soccer fan, my favorite team is FC Barcelona. Whether I'm watching a match or playing with friends, soccer has always been a big part of my life.
- Why Research:
Research is important to me because it drives the progress of humanity forward. It fosters deep problem-solving, critical thinking, and a passion for learning. Through my research experience, I've learned to think outside the box and to approach my work with organization and meticulous attention to detail.
Amira Lee
- Programming Coordinator
- Major: Genetics
- Minor: Arabic Language
- Graduation Year: 2026
- Hometown: Westfield, NJ
- Career Interest:
My research and volunteer interests have inspired me to pursue a career in medicine, focusing on women’s health. I hope to improve access and education in women’s healthcare, as well as contribute to advancing research in underrepresented women’s health issues.
- Fun Fact: I love listening and dancing to Spanish music. I started learning bachata and salsa a few years ago, and since then, I’ve enjoyed incorporating new forms of movement into my life.
- Why Research:
I’ve been doing research on campus for the past three years, and it has taught me to think critically and take a leading role in my own project. As I’ve progressed into more advanced stages of research, I’ve been able to better understand the research process, develop strong scientific communication skills, and feel a sense of pride in my years of work.