{"id":2613,"date":"2024-04-23T13:58:22","date_gmt":"2024-04-23T20:58:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.hmc.edu\/research\/?page_id=2613"},"modified":"2026-05-04T11:40:55","modified_gmt":"2026-05-04T18:40:55","slug":"abstracts","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.hmc.edu\/research\/presentation-days\/abstracts\/","title":{"rendered":"Presentation Days 2026 Abstracts"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Biology<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Lyra Cromwell<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

ppGpp: A Potential Regulator of dsrA Expression in E. coli<\/em> During Cold Stress<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Advisors:<\/strong> Dan Stoebel, professor of biology, chair, Department of Biology; Eliot Bush, professor of biology<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Under stressful conditions, the general stress response (GSR) in bacteria alters their gene expression for survival. DsrA is a small RNA molecule that plays a key role in activating the GSR in response to cold shock in E. coli<\/em>. Some unknown factor plays a key role in enabling cold-related dsrA expression; one possible candidate is ppGpp, a signaling molecule responsible for upregulating dsrA under starvation-related stress. To examine ppGpp\u2019s role in cold shock, we use a lux-dsrA promoter fusion and luminescence plate assay. We found that cells lacking ppGpp still upregulate dsrA under cold shock; so, ppGpp is not solely responsible for upregulating dsrA under cold shock in E. coli<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Callie Dawson<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Demography and Dispersal of Joshua Trees<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Advisors:<\/strong> Stephen Adolph, Stuart Mudd Professor of Biology; Anna Ahn, professor of biology<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Relatively little is known about the dispersal of Joshua trees, representing a knowledge gap that might ultimately compromise the success of Joshua tree conservation initiatives in the face of climate change (Waitman et al. 2012). Our study aims to shed light on potential dispersal patterns of Joshua trees at range edges. In particular, our work aims to answer the following questions: Are Joshua trees dispersing in any particular direction, elevationally and\/or latitudinally? If so, are they dispersing in a direction that general trends would predict? What is the dispersal rate of Joshua trees? Does the (cardinal) direction of dispersal differ on slopes versus flat surfaces? What does the demography of Joshua trees look like at range edges?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Malina DiBlasi<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Role of Bdf4 Protein in <\/strong>Trypanosoma brucei<\/em> <\/strong>Differentiation<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Advisors:<\/strong> Danae Schulz, associate professor of biology; Elliot Bush, professor of biology<\/p>\n\n\n\n

African trypanosomes (T. brucei<\/em>) are single-celled eukaryotic parasites that cause trypanosomiasis in humans and livestock. Infections are transferred between organisms via tsetse fly bites. As these parasites travel from the mammalian bloodstream to the fly midgut, they differentiate into the procyclic form and alter their surface proteins. The EP1 gene is largely responsible for the expression of the procyclin protein. This project examines the role of Bdf4, a bromodomain chromatin-interacting protein, in differentiation. Other bromodomains are known to assist in gene silencing. We suspect Bdf4 similarly helps silence EP1 expression. Knocking down BDF4 in bloodstream parasites results in increased EP1 expression. Characterization of Bdf4\u2019s role in differentiation may provide further insights into possible therapeutic targets for trypanosomiasis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Alessandra Ela<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Investigating the Role of an FHA-domain Containing Protein in Trypanosoma brucei<\/em><\/strong> Life Cycle Transitions<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Advisors:<\/strong> Danae Schulz, associate professor of biology; Jae Hur, associate professor of biology<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trypanosoma brucei<\/em> causes sleeping sickness in humans and nagana in livestock. T. brucei<\/em> cells differentiate as they move between mammals and their fly vector. Here we study what contributes to EP gene silencing in the bloodstream form of the parasite in mammals. We thought FHA, a chromatin protein, may be important for EP silencing because it is in complex with bromodomain proteins, which our lab previously found are important for EP silencing. We tested how knocking down FHA expression in the bloodstream form and during differentiation affects EP1 expression. Our finding that FHA knockdown results in EP1 expression changes in bloodstream parasites and parasites exposed to an environmental differentiation signal could lead to insights about if FHA is a possible drug target in T. brucei<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Natalie Minor<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

How Are You Alive? Invasive Argentine Ants and Native Harvester Ants Coexisting<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Advisors:<\/strong> Matina Donaldson-Matasci, associate professor of biology; Eliot Bush, professor of biology<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Argentine ant (ngarjvaja humile<\/em>) is an invasive species that has effectively eliminated many native ants from their natural habitats. A local population of native harvester ants (Pogonomyrmex californicus<\/em>) has been observed coexisting with invasive Argentine ants, although the mechanisms by which these native ants persist are unclear. We studied harvester ant defensive behavior and found that colonies varied both in when they opened and closed their nest entrance, and how much the entrance moved each week. Our results suggest that there is a colony-specific factor, like Argentine ant presence, modulating harvester ant behavior. Uncovering the basis for this variation could illuminate when and where coexistence between species is possible and shape plans for conserving native ants.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Fotini Mourelatos<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Shifting Surfaces Underfoot: Muscle Activity and Joint Kinematics Decouple When Traversing Transitioning Terrains<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Advisor:<\/strong> Anna Ahn, professor of biology<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Walking and running on a solid track differs from walking and running on dissipative sand or compliant grass. This study characterizes the differences in muscle activity and joint kinematics while traversing transitioning terrains using bluetooth EMGs and marker less motion capture technology. Muscle activity and kinematics decouple when subjects shift surfaces.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Chemistry<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Jimmy Boyle<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Characterization of an MOF-Based Bimetallic Catalyst for Improving Redox Reaction Efficiency<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Advisor:<\/strong> Colm Healy, assistant professor of chemistry<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The goal of this thesis is to better characterize the combination of ZIF-62(Co) and potassium heptomolybdate as a bimetallic amorphous catalyst for the HER reaction. Previous work with a zinc-based metal organic frameworks (MOFs) showed promising signs of some chemical incorporation happening between the two materials. Additionally, work done by Steven Zhang and Freja Johnson has proven efficacy for our catalyst in electrochemical tests in the OER reaction. We hypothesize that potassium heptomolybdate is dissolved in ZIF-62 in its liquid state at temperatures above 480\u00b0C. POM clusters would substitute for cobalt nodes in this amorphous structure and form SBU within the structure. Thanks to the ZIF-62 structure, the liquid ZIF-62 should vitrify into a glass while having already incorporated the POM into the amorphous structure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tatiana Cardoso<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Designing a Stereotunable and Chemically Degradable Polymer<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Advisor:<\/strong> Spencer Brucks, assistant professor of chemistry<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Between 2000 and 2019, plastic production doubled. As popular plastics accumulate over time and degrade into microplastics, scientists are interested in trying to create new plastics that are chemically, physically or biologically degradable. We are focused on how the backbone stereochemistry of polymers affects their chemical and physical properties. Claire Boege explored both these topics in her thesis on how the backbone stereochemistry of polydihydrofuran (PDHF) affected its chemical degradation. However, after many DHF polymerizations the backbone was always about 50% cis-alkenes. In this thesis, I proposed that a monomer that has a double bond and an oxygen in the same location as DHF but has a higher ring strain may polymerize through ROMP into a polymer that is both sterically tunable and chemically degradable. I have created a setup for the photochemical synthesis of the desired oxetane monomer and experimented with the reaction conditions to successfully optimize the synthesis of oxetane. I have also tested  ROMP reactions with the oxetane under a variety of conditions varying time, temperature, and concentrations to better understand how and if this monomer can polymerize via ROMP.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Amir Gonzalez Camacho<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Reactivity of Phosphate Alkoxide in a Sol-Gel System<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Advisors:<\/strong> Spencer Brucks, assistant professor of chemistry; J\u00e9r\u00e9my Souli\u00e9, assistant professor National Polytechnic Institute of Toulouse<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phosphate-based glasses are a promising class of materials for bone regeneration, as they can fully degrade and release phosphate and calcium ions. Both ions can stimulate bone cells and promote the in vivo formation of apatite, the mineral phase of bone, thereby enhancing new bone formation after implantation of the phosphate glass. The sol\u2013gel process is one of the most common preparation routes for these materials, where phosphate alkoxides undergo hydrolysis and subsequent condensation to form 3D glassy networks and then nanostructured materials. While many studies report the synthesis\/fabrication of such materials, most focus on the final glass rather than the intermediate stages of formation. In this work, we aim to investigate a system using triethyl phosphate (TEP) as a phosphorus source, which has been reported to yield glassy phosphate nanospheres under mild conditions. This claim contrasts with historical studies, which suggest that TEP hydrolyzes only under highly acidic, high-temperature conditions. Using \u00b3\u00b9P NMR and dynamic light scattering, we aim to address these discrepancies by determining the conditions under which TEP undergoes hydrolysis and condensation. Establishing this understanding will provide deeper insight into sol\u2013gel phosphate glass formation and guide the design of these bioresorbable materials for bone regeneration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Greyson Karis-Sconyers<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Investigating Temperature Dependence of Oxygenated Organic Aerosol in Eastern L.A. County<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Advisor:<\/strong> Lelia Hawkins, professor of chemistry and Hixon Professor of Climate Studies; director, Hixon Center for Climate and the Environment<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Global air pollution remains a major human health hazard. Estimates from global epidemiological studies suggest that air pollution causes a loss of life expectancy higher than tobacco smoke and all forms of violence. One component of air pollution, PM2.5, is associated with increased respiratory mortality, as well as acute and chronic elevated blood pressure. Further, climate change is expected to cause more frequent and intense heat waves and act as an amplifier to pollution\u2019s negative health effects. Ambient measurements show that organic aerosols make up a large fraction of overall PM2.5 and are particularly sensitive to regional temperature. To investigate the role that temperature plays in Los Angeles air pollution, we conducted continuous measurements of aerosol size and composition using mass spectrometry in the fall of 2025. We performed source apportionment with factor analysis to distinguish primary and secondary organic aerosol sources. By coupling measurements of aerosol quantity, composition and size distribution with local meteorology for fall 2025 and summer 2021, we were able to determine the extent to which temperature influenced the formation of this significant air pollutant. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sophia Lemus<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Investigating the Effects of Environmental pH and Short-Chain Fatty Acids on L. Rhamnosus Biofilm Formation<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Advisor:<\/strong> Spencer Brucks, assistant professor of chemistry<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This research focuses on the growth of the probiotic Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus<\/em> GG and particularly its ability to form biofilm. Biofilm is a community of bacteria and the extracellular matrix they form to endure stressful environmental conditions. The impact of the pH and presence of SCFAs on the biofilm of L. rhamnosus<\/em> helps us better understand how this probiotic\u2019s biofilm is interacting with the environment within the gut and whether these are potential ways to strengthen the biofilm. A newer technique was also used to capture an SEM image of bacterial biofilms without chemical treatment to better preserve the native state of the probiotic\u2019s biofilm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Nora O\u2019Connor<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Two-step Synthesis of Acylated Pyrimidines Through Green C-C Bond Formation and Nitrogen Insertion<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Advisor:<\/strong> David Vosburg, Donald A. Strauss Professor of Chemistry<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Nitrogen heterocycles are essential molecular building blocks for drug discovery (Ghosh et al.). recently published their use of sulfenylnitrenes for skeletal editing of N-heterocycles. Performing this reaction with pyrroles yields synthetically challenging pyrimidines\u2014the fifth-most common N-heterocycle in drug molecules. The Vosburg lab has used TCFH-NMI as a green coupling agent to acylate pyrroles. Now, we are using the nitrogen insertion chemistry combined with TCFH-NMI coupling to develop synthetic routes to complex pyrimidines. To do this, we carried out a large-scale synthesis of the sulfenylnitrene precursor and performed the N-insertion reaction on various acylated pyrroles. These novel products were characterized by 1H NMR, 13C NMR and MS to determine yield and regioselectivity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lilo Ryan<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Characterization of Molecular Sizes for Biomolecules Involved in Translocation Through the Kidney Glomerulus: A Molecular Dynamics Study<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Advisor:<\/strong> Bilin Zhuang, assistant professor of chemistry<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The kidney membrane, despite being a key filtration system in the body, is poorly understood mechanistically. Large polymers like sugars are able to pass through the membrane where smaller proteins are retained within the body. The theory is that more flexible molecules, like sugars, are able to pass through the membrane more easily than less flexible, more rigid proteins. We performed molecular dynamics simulations on sugars of differing sizes as well as various relevant proteins in order to measure characteristics about the shape and size of the molecules. This will provide a basis for future studies adding flow and confinement to simulations, allowing for better understanding of the way that the kidney membrane functions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bam Sindhurattavej<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Multiscale Simulations to Predict Aggregation-Induced Fluorescence in Peptides<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Advisors:<\/strong> Bilin Zhuang, assistant professor of chemistry; Whitney Fowler, assistant professor of engineering<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The self-assembly of peptide amphiphiles (PAs) in water can induce fluorescence, with intensity depending on amino acid sequence. My previous work showed that C16-VVAAKK is at least 10 times more fluorescent than related PAs despite lacking conjugated motifs. This unexpected behavior motivates my thesis to investigate the mechanisms that underlie sequence-specific fluorescence and develop a multiscale framework for predicting peptide\u2019s fluorescence, in order to unlock PAs\u2019 potential as molecular sensing platforms. In particular, I aim to develop the computational pipeline that addresses challenges associated with modeling large and dynamic PA assemblies by integrating molecular dynamics simulation, chemically informed sampling method, and time-dependent density functional theory.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Audrey Thiessen<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Ligand Synthesis for Carbon Capturing MOFs<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Advisor:<\/strong> Colm Healy, assistant professor of chemistry<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Flexible metal organic frameworks (MOFs) have the ability to efficiently and selectively take up gases, even when molecule concentrations are very low. MOFs are a crystal structure made up of metal nodes, inorganic linkers and organic ligands. The ligand used in the MOF structure plays a large role in determining what gases the material is selective to. Our work is developing a ligand to tune these MOF properties for carbon capture applications.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mathematics<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Tito Cuchilla<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Hamiltonian Paths on Polytopes<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Advisors:<\/strong> Andr\u00e9s Vindas Mel\u00e9ndez, assistant professor of mathematics; Tim Randolph, assistant professor of computer science<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In this thesis, we investigate the existence of Hamiltonian Paths on the symmetric edge polytope over different families of graphs (SEP(G<\/em>)) as well as new greedy algorithms that compute them. Motivated from recent literature on the computing of Hamiltonian Paths on 0\/1-polytopes, we provide extensions on existing greedy algorithms to compute Hamiltonian Paths on 0\/1\/\u22121 polytopes such as SEP(G<\/em>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Jenna Luo<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The Tropical Linear Series on the Banana Graph<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Advisor:<\/strong> Dagan Karp, professor of mathematics<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In my thesis, I mainly explore the open problem of the g-1 dimensional tropical linear series in R(K_\\Gamma) of a banana graph. I\u2019ve attempted it using the perspective of the cellular structure of R(K_\\Gamma), but on the other hand, I\u2019m also exploring if I could apply tropical Grassmannians and cluster algebras in exploring this problem.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Connor Neely<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

A Friendly Introduction to Gromov-Witten Theory<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Advisors:<\/strong> Dagan Karp, professor of mathematics; Dusty Ross, San Francisco State University Department of Mathematics<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Enumerative geometry is an ancient field of mathematics rooted in solving simple counting puzzles, like \u201cgiven three points in the plane, how many circles pass through all of them?\u201d Questions like these are easy to state, but for centuries many of the simplest problems proved surprisingly difficult to solve. In recent decades, however, ideas from the seemingly far-flung world of theoretical physics have offered new ways of understanding a broad class of enumerative problems involving topological strings embedded in complex manifolds. Here, I offer a high-level overview of this unique interaction between modern geometry and physics, now called Gromov-Witten theory, highlighting how curve-counting becomes manifest in supersymmetric string theory.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Madeline Reeve<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Toward Conditions for Consensus of Noisy Bounded-Confidence Models<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Advisors:<\/strong> Heather Brooks, assistant professor of mathematics; Christopher Miles, University of Utah Department of Mathematics<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Models of opinion dynamics aim to describe the spread of opinions over time in a social network. However, many canonical models are deterministic and thus may fail to capture uncertainty present in social interactions. This work investigates the effect of adding noise into bounded-confidence models, a class of opinion dynamics models where agents are more likely to be influenced by opinions close to their own. In particular, we propose a noisy modification of the Deffuant\u2013Weisbuch model. We prove that in this model all agents eventually adopt the same opinion: Our model converges to consensus.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Elizabeth Rogers<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Solving VIMAX: All-Pairs Vitality Maximization<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Advisors:<\/strong> Susan Martonosi, professor of mathematics, associate chair, Department of Mathematics; Alice Paul, Brown University Department of Biostatistics<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Gregory Wickham<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Formalizing the Gelfand-Naimark-Segal Construction in Lean<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Lucas Bang, associate professor of computer science; Michael Orrison, Kenneth A. and Diana G. Jonsson Professor of Mathematics, chair, Department of Mathematics<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A proof assistant is a programming language that provides a way to express mathematical proofs so that they can be verified as correct by a computer. The process of writing mathematics with a proof assistant is called formalization. For my project, I am formalizing the Gelfand-Naimark-Segal (GNS) construction, which is an important step in the proof the Gelfand-Naimark theorem, an essential theorem in the study of C\u2217-algebras.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Nicole Wu<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

A Nonstandard Exploration of Approximate Identity and Unitization<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Advisors:<\/strong> Konrad Aguilar, Pomona College Department of Mathematics; Alfonso Castro, Robert and Barbara McAlister Professor of Mathematics<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Nonstandard analysis was developed by mathematical logician Abraham Robinson in 1960, where he extended the real numbers to a nonstandard structure that allowed for a clear and mathematically rigorous definition of infinitesimals. Perhaps the most noticeable thing at once of this development is that it salvaged the notion of infinitesimals. Although used frequently be mathematicians in the era of Newton and Leibnitz, infinitesimals were questioned and criticized for their lack of rigor and precise definitions. Eventually, calculus turned to limits to replace the need for infinitely small objects. Robinson\u2019s work allowed mathematicians to once again accept infinitesimals, this time as well-defined mathematical objects. Although this thesis does not focus on nonstandard real analysis, starting with nonstandard constructions on real numbers would give a more intuitive understanding of the process of taking nonstandard extensions of mathematical objects. Later, we will extend to nonstandard models of arbitrary objects. Any nonstandard extension can be explicitly given by an ultraproduct in a similar way to constructing the nonstandard reals. More specifically, we will work with nonstandard models of C*-algebras. The use of ultraproducts in C*-algebras and functional analysis is not a new notion, and some generalized extensions, such as the nonstandard hull construction, also exist in addition to the above ultraproduct construction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Joshua Zhong<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Toward a Combinatorial Analog of the Fixed-Point Property for Projective Planes of Even Dimension<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Advisors:<\/strong> Francis Su, Benediktsson-Karwa Professor of Mathematics; Justin Lanier, Louisiana State University Department of Mathematics<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There are some examples of topological existence theorems that have analogs in terms of triangulations and combinatorics, with the most famous being the relationship between Brouwer\u2019s Fixed Point Theorem and Sperner\u2019s Lemma. We seek a similar analog for a different fixed point property, namely the one for real projective spaces of even dimension.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lilian Zhu<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Nonlinear Salinity Feedbacks in the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Robert Sanchez, assistant professor of climate and mathematics; Isla Simpson, National Center for Atmospheric Research<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Physics<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Amelia Acker<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Characterizing the Viscoelastic Behavior of the Frog Plantaris Tendon<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Advisor:<\/strong> Mark Ilton, associate professor of physics<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tendons can act like biological springs in animal movements. When loaded by a muscle, tendons store elastic energy, which, when unloaded, assists animals in running, jumping, etc. The energy efficiency of this movement depends on the loading and unloading rate of the tendon, where rapid unloading results in higher energy loss. To predict the tradeoff between energy efficiency and speed in ultrafast elastically driven movements, we characterize tendon viscoelasticity across a broad range of frequencies. We perform dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) measurements of bullfrog plantaris tendons. To access the high-frequency response of the tendon, we use DMA and time-ethanol superposition, where a higher ethanol concentration probes higher frequencies by reducing the effective free volume of molecules in the tendon. Our results suggest that although there is general qualitative agreement between the two approaches, there are remaining challenges in applying time-ethanol superposition to measure tendon viscoelasticity.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Korin Aldam-Tajima<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Entropic Gravity in BFSS Matrix Theory<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Advisor:<\/strong> Vatche Sahakian, Burton Bettingen Professor of Physics<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We reproduced the exact general relativistic force law between the two objects as an entropic force in Matrix theory. We identified the location of the horizons of the objects from this entropic force and are led to a modification of the Schwarzschild spacetime inside the horizon. We find evidence that the inside of a black hole is instead to be described by AdS space. The conclusions constitute numerical validation of Verlinde’s entropic gravity proposition and the fuzzball paradigm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Henrik Barck<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Crystal Defect Teamwork in Colloids<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Advisor:<\/strong> Sharon Gerbode, professor of physics, associate dean for academic affairs<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Defect motion and interaction critically impact properties of crystalline materials and have been studied in colloids where particle-scale mechanisms are directly observable. We study a system of hard sphere particles that self organize into a triangular lattice in the plane and buckle out of the plane in labyrinth-like patterns reminiscent of antiferromagnetic spin ordering. Our work reveals that defects in the lattice and defects in the spin order both create compression dipoles in the crystal and may interact nonlinearly or in a way that is dependent on the buckling strength. Understanding the interactions between these defects teaches about the evolution and properties of crystalline systems with both lattice and spin ordering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Oswaldo Cardenas<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Using Graphical Neural Networks to Predict Neutrino Direction<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Advisors:<\/strong> Aaron Higuera, assistant research professor of physics and astronomy, Rice University Ken Kennedy Institute; Brian Shuve, associate professor of physics<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In order to better understand how neutrinos can oscillate into one another, many new detectors and experiments are being constructed to precisely measure oscillation rates as well as magnitudes of oscillation. A crucial aspect of these experiments is the ability to predict the direction that a neutrino comes into a detector. By knowing the precise direction, experiments can better construct extract oscillation parameters from measurements of oscillation probabilities as a function of energy and travel distance. For this project, we created a graphical neural network to easily accurately reconstruct neutrino directions from detector results. Using a GNN, we can measure neutrino direction quickly and precisely, thus allowing for reliable, accurate results.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Kavi Dey<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Computational Methods to Find Action Angle Variables in the Solar System<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Advisor:<\/strong> Dan Tamayo, assistant professor of physics<\/p>\n\n\n\n

While the inner solar system is chaotic on timescales of a few millions, the planetary modes diffuse on much longer timescales of billions of years. Previous work has shown that the dynamics of the solar system leads to faster diffusion in some combinations of the planetary modes, while it approximately conserves other combinations. Searching for these \u2018action-angle\u2019 variables helps elucidate the dominant resonances driving chaos. By eliminating quasi-periodic oscillations, these approximate action-angle variables can serve as slowly varying quantities that more precisely track the chaotic diffusion one is interested in for long-term evolution. We use a combination of classical perturbative and classical machine learning techniques to find these slowly varying quantities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ivan Dudiak<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Real-Time Autonomous Drone Navigation in GNSS-Denied Environments<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Advisor:<\/strong> Jason Gallicchio, associate professor of physics

Real-time navigation has been an exciting and valuable area of research, enabling intelligent autonomous drone operations in environments where GPS is unreliable. While significant progress has been made in algorithm development, implementing a reliable, real-time system that can match GPS performance remains elusive. In this work, we conduct an in-depth study of existing mapping techniques and select a robust visual-inertial odometry system for local positioning, combined with a satellite image matching approach for global updates. We first integrate and validate the system on an open-source flight dataset. We then develop an algorithm to improve robustness against instabilities and successfully deploy and test it in real time using an onboard drone computing interface, outlining future steps for further resilience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lev Gruber<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

An Information-Theoretic Approach to Adaptive Entanglement Witnessing<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Advisor:<\/strong> Theresa Lynn, Susan and Bruce Worster Professor of Physics, chair, Department of Physics<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quantum entanglement is a vital resource in quantum computation, communication and cryptography. Entanglement witnesses (EW) provide a method for certifying entanglement from few measurements. I present an adaptive protocol that uses local measurements on many copies of an unknown bipartite quantum state to certify entanglement by measuring EWs. As a given EW only certifies a subset of all entangled states, the protocol adaptively chooses subsequent measurements using the results of prior measurements. The current best choice model certifies 72% of computationally generated random states, while the optimal choice certifies 79%. I develop a Bayes classifier model to lower bound the success rate achievable by any adaptive choice method and find it surpasses our current best choice model.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ian McGuire<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Grain Boundary and Impurity Interactions in Colloidal Crystals<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Advisor:<\/strong> Sharon Gerbode, professor of physics, associate dean for academic affairs<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Doping of a metallic crystal by addition of impurity atoms yields well-known phenomena such as embrittlement and changes in the electronic band structure. While many impurities have been experimentally observed to be located at grain boundaries within crystals, models that describe the method by which impurities find themselves so located are still incomplete. To illuminate the particle-scale processes that enable impurity segregation to grain boundaries, we study 2D colloidal crystals of micron-diameter spheres doped with small densities of larger particles. Using particle tracking image analysis techniques, we track the motions of both grain boundaries and impurity particles to investigate the mutual interactions between these two types of disorder. Our measurements help elucidate the underlying mechanisms that drive impurity segregation, which plays a critical role in stabilizing grain structures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Zoe Messenger<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Accounting for Blue Straggler Stars in Galaxy Age Calculations<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Advisors:<\/strong> Guy Worthey, associate professor of physics, Washington State University; Brian Shuve, associate professor of physics<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Blue straggler stars (BSS) are unusually bright, blue and young-appearing stars that form from the merging of two older stars. Current stellar population models that we use to determine the ages of real populations assume stars evolve in isolation and do not account for the extra light from BSS, skewing predicted ages young. In this study, we established preliminary relationships based on Gaia telescope data between the age of a stellar cluster and its BSS to main sequence star (MSS) ratio. We then used these relationships to add in proportionate populations of BSS to our models. Comparing the predicted ages of stellar populations for BSS and non-BSS models demonstrated discrepancies of billions of years, prompting further investigation into how to make the models truer to reality.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Miski Nopo<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Axion-like Particles as Mediators of Dark Matter Interactions<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Advisor: <\/strong>Brian Shuve, associate professor of physics<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dark matter makes up about 85% of the universe\u2019s matter, yet its nature remains unknown. This project studies an axion-like particle (ALP) mediated model for dark matter interactions with ordinary particles. We extend previous work by including additional interaction channels that are always present but were previously assumed negligible. This addition refines predictions of the relic abundance, contributing to a more complete understanding of the ALP-mediated dark matter scenario.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mickey Teekamongkol<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Stability and Accretion Disk Formation in a Hierarchical Triple System<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Advisor:<\/strong> Ann Esin, associate professor of physics<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This project investigates the stability of a hierarchical triple star system with a donor star orbiting around a compact object binary. We varied different orbital parameters such as mass, separation and relative inclination to see if the system is stable. We classify the system stability through the energy and angular conservation of each binary pair.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maya Maranto<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Toward Fast and Reliable Machine Learning Models for Planetary System Formation<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Advisor:<\/strong> Daniel Tamayo, assistant professor of physics<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Understanding how planetary systems form is difficult observationally, so simulations can give insight into how these systems develop. To accomplish this, most researchers use N-body simulations, which computationally solve the N-body problem for N planets. However, N-body simulations are very slow; it can take weeks of real time for systems to evolve on the necessary timescales. Recently, Lammers et al developed a machine learning tool called the Giant Impact Phase Emulator trained on the results of these N-body simulations, speeding them up by up to four orders of magnitude. However, the results produced by the emulator are not always physical when applied beyond the training set. This project seeks to understand why that is and to propose changes that could improve accuracy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Next Ongarjvaja<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Towards Demonstration of Quantum Position Verification at the Kilometer Range<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Advisor:<\/strong> Jason Gallicchio, associate professor of physics; Physics Clinic Director<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This project aims to prepare hardware and software that lead to a demonstration of quantum position verification (QPV) at the kilometer range. By integrating FPGA-based control with polarization-encoded qubits, we address the vulnerability to cloning attack in the classical position verification counterpart. Our system utilizes a 1-qubit + 2-oracle protocol inspired by BB84. Key innovations include a custom clock and data recovery module for synchronization, Pockels cells acting as electronic X and H gates for rapid basis switching and an astronomy-inspired alignment system for long-distance optical links. By leveraging the no-cloning theorem, we demonstrate technical development toward spatial cryptography on hybrid classical and quantum free-space network architecture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ananya Venkatachalam<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Effect of Dipole Asymmetry on Ion Distribution in Polar Fluids<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Advisor:<\/strong> Bilin Zhuang, assistant professor of chemistry<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Microscopic, molecular-scale features often determine the collective behavior of fluids. Liquid surfaces are a notable example: Electric fields and enhanced reactivity have been observed at aqueous interfaces, but the origin of these effects remains unclear. We examine how charge asymmetry in polar solvents can drive the molecular reorganization that generates local electric fields. Using a simple shifted-dipole Stockmayer fluid model, we study the organization of the liquid in bulk, at a liquid-vapor interface, and in the presence of dissolved ions to illustrate the physics resulting from molecular charge asymmetry. We find that charge asymmetry reorganizes liquid structure, produces spontaneous fields at interfaces and leads to the distinct solvation behaviors of cations and anions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Daniel Voyles<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Heavy Neutral Lepton Signals in Higgs Boson Decays at Particle Colliders<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Advisor:<\/strong> Brian Shuve, associate professor of physics<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the Standard Model of particle physics, there is no mechanism for the neutrino particle to obtain a mass. However, experimental observations have shown that the particle has some nonzero mass, requiring the existence of physics beyond the Standard Model. I consider a model to explain the neutrino\u2019s mass with the addition of new particles called heavy neutral leptons (HNLs), where HNLs are produced via the decay of a Higgs boson, either directly or through an intermediate dark Higgs boson. I produce computer simulations of this process, then use them to assess how sensitive existing experimental searches are to HNLs under our model. Using these results, I explore how other search strategies could extend this sensitivity. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Richard Zheng<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Alignment and Characterization of a Sagnac Source of Entangled Photons<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Advisor: <\/strong>Jason Gallicchio, associate professor of physics; Physics Clinic director<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This thesis outlines work to develop an alignment procedure for a Saganc interferometer and identify the quantum state of the entangled photons it produces with the goal of improving entanglement quality. The final alignment procedure utilizing various modifications to the source, such as the addition of cameras and adjustment stages, is summarized. The second half of the project involves characterizing the quantum state produced by the source using quantum state tomography to fit measurement data to relative weights for mixed states. The accuracy of the fits is discussed by comparing the fidelities and purities of the experimental density matrix and the fitted density matrix. Finally, possible directions for future work including different fitting procedures and waveplate calibration are proposed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Class Presentations<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Biology<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Research in the Bee Lab <\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Student presenters: <\/strong>Pranay Gupta, Phoebe Harrison, Yimei (Bonnie) Liu, Diya Mehta, Su Ongoren, Livia Ordonez<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Advisor:<\/strong> Matina Donaldson-Matasci, associate professor of biology<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ants are among the most abundant organisms on earth, and they play key roles in ecosystems around the world. However, invasive ants such as the Argentine ant are invading people’s homes, causing major crop damage and altering native ecosystems. Despite well-established evidence that Argentine ants drive out native harvester ants across California, here at the Bernard Field Station, Argentine ants and native harvester ants seem to be coexisting, even though frequent interactions have been observed. What allows this population of harvester ants to resist Argentine ant invasion? During the semester, students have explored this question from multiple angles, by (1) examining individual responses of harvester ants to scent cues of Argentine ant presence, (2) documenting the spatiotemporal pattern of harvester ant foraging and (3) developing automated methods to scale up data collection. They will report on their results, their plans for future exploration, and the potential of their work to explain how our local population of harvester ants has managed to persist despite Argentine ant invasion. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Chemistry<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Chem 104: Inorganic Chemistry <\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Student presenters:<\/strong> Noah Ades (PZ), Aresema Ata, Solomon Cooke, Koa DeLeon (PZ), Evelyn Harrington (SC), Zoe He, Liesel Hilkemeyer, Angela Milo, Vania Mokonchu (CMC), Caitlin Niiya (PZ), Selina Yao<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Advisor:<\/strong> Adam Johnson, Ray and Mary Ingwersen Professor and Chair, Department of Chemistry<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Students present written, artistic or other creative projects that describe the life and work of an inorganic chemist of their choosing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Chem 161: Classical and Statistical Thermodynamics<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Student presenters:<\/strong> Nicole Balsz, Henrik Barck, Lev Gruber, Zoe He, Charlie Schofield, Matthew Simpson, Caroline Sorrells, Alice Tidmarsh, Ananya Venkatachalam, Cameron Warmerdam, Selina Yao<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Advisor:<\/strong> Bilin Zhuang, assistant professor of chemistry<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Students will present their final projects.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Engineering<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Exploring the Hydration Kinetics of Alternative Cements Using Density Functional Theory and Molecular Dynamics<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Student Presenter: <\/strong>Luis Lorenzana
Advisor: <\/strong>Ethan Ritz \u201912, assistant professor of engineering<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Cement production accounts for nearly 8% of global CO2 emissions, motivating the development of low-carbon alternatives to ordinary Portland cement. Calcium sulfoaluminate (CSA) cements containing ye\u2019elimite (Ca4[Al6O12]SO4) offer a promising pathway to reduce emissions while maintaining comparable performance. However, the atomic scale mechanisms governing their hydration remain an active area of investigation. In this work we combine density functional theory, molecular dynamics (MD) and machine learned interatomic potentials (MLIPs) to investigate the surface properties and hydration behavior of ye\u2019elimite. Using the MLIPs we will enable large scale MD simulations that explore surface relaxation, water structuring and early hydration dynamics. This work establishes a computational framework for understanding and optimizing hydration in next generation low-carbon cement systems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Influence of Structural Distortions on Flexoelectricity in Perovskite Oxides<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Student Presenter:<\/strong> Isaac Perez
Advisor:<\/strong> Ethan Ritz \u201912, assistant professor of engineering<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Flexoelectric materials, which couple strain gradients to electric fields, are a promising class of materials receiving renewed interest as possible replacements for piezoelectrics in many applications. While much work has been done to elucidate the relationship between structural distortions and ferroelectricity, particularly those associated with phonon instabilities, the link between similar distortions and flexoelectric coefficients is still under active study. Through a combination of group theory and density functional theory, we explore the relationship between structural distortions in ABO3 perovskites and their predicted flexoelectric coefficients. In addition to a deeper understanding of the coupling between atomic displacements to flexoelectricity in these systems, this work provides insight into how flexoelectricity could be enhanced or suppressed in other systems which exhibit similar structural instabilities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Computational Materials Engineering Research: Predicting Solidification Shrinkage of Metals with Machine-Learned Force Fields <\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Student presenter:<\/strong> Audrey Thiessen<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Advisors:<\/strong> Lori Bassman, Jude and Eileen Laspa Professor of Engineering; Aurora Pribram-Jones \u201909, UC Merced<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Shrinkage during solidification of metals causes defects, such as cracks, in cast metal products. Several compositionally-complex brass alloys developed by our group exhibit less solidification shrinkage than conventional yellow brass, but precise experimental measurement is difficult because it requires working with metals in the liquid state. Our aim is to determine the effect that alloy composition has on volumetric change between the liquid and the solid phases using a computational approach. Our project investigates the low solidification shrinkage of compositionally complex alloys using machine-learned force fields (MLFF) for the simulations. Machine-learned force fields are computationally efficient and maintain the accuracy of electronic structure calculations. We use data collected from our simulations to create thermal expansion curves of both the solid and liquid phase structures of alloys to predict shrinkage during the liquid-to-solid phase transition. Results are validated using corresponding experimental casting shrinkage measurements. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

CuTE lab Team Presentations<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Student presenters: <\/strong>Joseph Abdelmalek, Lily Anfang, Max Buchanan, Christian Gonzalez, Liam Graham, Nyah Hamilton, Emily Ing, Julia Kolt, Jessica Li, Elle Marsyla, Carlos Ojeda de Silva, Karis Park, Angel Perez, Sophie Qiu, Ishita Raje, Elodie Serres, Jonathan Tabb, Alejandro Tellez, Nata Velarde-Alvarez<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Advisor: <\/strong>Steven Santana, Joseph B. Platt Chair in Effective Teaching and associate professor of engineering<\/p>\n\n\n\n

E4 Introduction to Engineering Design and Manufacturing<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Advisors:<\/strong> Golsa Mirbagheri, visiting assistant professor of engineering; Marissa Sinopoli \u201918, assistant professor of engineering; Steve Trank, visiting assistant professor of engineering<\/p>\n\n\n\n

E4 (Introduction to Engineering Design and Manufacturing) situates student teams as engineers contracted to work on design projects provided by external clients. These projects are open-ended and require students to employ conceptual design and teamwork. Students work closely with clients, instructors and the makerspace and machine shop to develop a design solution as they navigate the complexity of the design process. These presentations represent the culmination of their work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Student Teams<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

Atomic Lattice Simulator Section 2: Jackson Crickard, Dhruti Kulkarni, Taishi Liu, Avery Tin, Kelly Zhou<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Atomic Lattice Simulator Section 3: Nat Bowman, Wesley Evans, Danielle Lam, Stella Li, Tian Xie<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Cart Stabilizer Section 2: Jasmine Cong, Alan Liu-Sui, Alyx McCaig, Arman Rudar, Erick Velarde Armenta<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Cart Stabilizer Section 3: Shawn Dahiyat, Leo Lam, Bethany Prado, Oliver Thompson, Erin Weir<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Clay Collector Section 2: Blaze Hedani, Cleo McHenry, CJ Roche-Sanchez, Charlie Routledge, Shreya Yarlagadda<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Compost Extractor Section 2: Stella Gajar, Rain Hannsz, Beckett Heywood, Lily Horn, Grace Regier<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Compost Extractor Section 3: Cindy Fan, Cindy Nguyen, Victor Nguyen, Stella Ruebel SC, Benjamin Sauer PO<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Fence Transporter Section 2: Tyler Chelew, Blake Cody, Alejandro Iliria, Molly McLaughlin, Adrienne Medak<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Part Recoverer Section 2: Ryan Bram, Harrison Chen, Cooper Giles, Tara Mahesh, Charlotte Wong<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Part Recoverer Section 3: Josie Chan, Mae Chen, Ethan Hoen, Evelyn Law, Jonah Mayo, Ryan Yoo<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Photo Booth Section 2: Oliver Flor, Gavin Han, Justin Huang, Reagan Orkins, Abigail Stewart<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Photo Booth Section 3: Gabe Cotti, Jane Hewitt, Liza Ivanova, Jorge Pacheco, Zach Tan<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Shadow Masks Section 3: Joseph Conjusteau, Anastasiia Derepa, Alice Kelly, May Li, Hua Yuan <\/p>\n\n\n\n

E80 Experimental Engineering<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Student presenters: <\/strong>Leena Ansari, Aditi Gargeshwari, Cooper Giles, Tyler Holman, Luke Morgan, Felix Peng<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Advisors:<\/strong> Dre Helmns, assistant professor of engineering; Marissa Sinopoli \u201918 assistant professor of engineering; Adyasha Mohanty, assistant professor of engineering; Qimin Yang, professor of engineering; Lynn Kim, lab engineer; Xavier Walter, staff engineer <\/p>\n\n\n\n

E80 (Experimental Engineering) is a sophomore-level, semester-long course, in which students conduct multiple experiments covering a number of engineering disciplines. These experiments are a training ground for a final project: deploying an autonomous underwater or surface vehicle in open water, where student teams measure phenomena of their choice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

E205 Robotics Engineering: State Estimation for 21st Century Robotics and Autonomy<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Advisor: <\/strong>Adyasha Mohanty, assistant professor of engineering<\/p>\n\n\n\n

State estimation is the backbone of modern robotics and autonomy, enabling intelligent systems to navigate uncertainty. In this presentation, student teams will showcase their implementation of state estimation algorithms, refining a robot\u2019s environmental understanding. Working in groups, they\u2019ve designed and tested solutions using simulated or real-world platforms, integrating measurements from multiple sensors to achieve robust performance. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Student Teams<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

Acoustic Localization: Emily Barr and Sayema Lubis<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Filters for Autonomous Robots: Jared Carreno and Kala Romanowski<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Snack Delivery Robot: Madeleine Kan and Erin Wang <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Innovation Accelerator Laboratory for Imaginative Prototyping with AI<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Advisor: <\/strong>Josh Brake, associate professor of engineering<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Laboratory for Imaginative Prototyping with AI explores AI\u2019s promise and peril through hands-on, concrete prototype-building rather than hypothetical scenarios\u2014a philosophy rooted in the \u201cinnovation bargain,\u201d which examines how technology simultaneously frees and limits human capability. The lab runs a fellowship program in which small teams of students design and build imaginative AI applications, supported by mentorship, peer community, resources and AI infrastructure. Fellows tackle questions at the intersection of AI and human experience, including AI\u2019s role in education, meaningful work, creative writing and rapid STEM prototyping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Entrepreneurship<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

ENTR 179B: Enterprise and Entrepreneurs<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Student presenters:<\/strong> ENTR179B students<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Advisor: <\/strong>Josh Jones \u201998 <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Students launch real startup companies and market them. Come hear about their pitches and journeys so far.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hixon Center for Climate and the Environment<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

CLES 120: Games for Climate Change Literacy<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Student presenters:<\/strong> Nikhil Shah, Omar Mnfy Computer Science, Hixon Center<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Advisor:<\/strong> Lynn Kirabo, Maria M. Klawe Assistant Professor of Climate and CS<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In this course, students learn to use human-computer interaction methodologies, behavioral theories and the transformational framework to design climate change literacy games to inspire positive behavior change in players. Each game is grounded in climate change literature or scenarios for their rationale and arguments about different game design decisions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

CLES 197: Research in Climate Science<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Student presenters:<\/strong> Kylie Brunelli, Bao Bui, Katja Gentleman, Alyssa Hill, Megan Juza, Baron Kim, Karen Kitchen, Alan Liu-Sui, Coco Peng, Tara Sawrikar, Thomas Wylie<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Advisor:<\/strong> Sarah Kavassalis, professor of climate and chemistry<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Workshop on Atmosphere-Land Linkages: Year in review. Poster showcase. Participants are in their first year at the College and are registered for CLES research. Focus areas: Understanding the local CO\u2082 budget, carbon and energy fluxes, VOC chemistry, air quality trends, emissions inventories, satellite validation, measurement-model comparisons.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Humanities, Social Sciences, and the Arts<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

HSA 10 Presentations<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Student Presenters: <\/strong>Leah Baroudi, Aadi Biswas, Mae Chen, Jasmine Cong, Jackson Giumarra, Matthias Kim, Cate Lee, Ambrose Luo, Tara Mahesh, Sanika Patterson, Taylor Rienhart, Simone Yang<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The HSA 10 seminar course introduces students to inquiry, writing and research in HSA through focused exploration of a particular topic selected by the instructor in each section. A student from each section is selected to present their work during these HSA 10 sessions. Additional presentations from HSA projects are also presented during this session.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Independent Study Archiving ASHMC: Student Government Through 70 years<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Student presenter:<\/strong> Simone Yang<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Advisor:<\/strong> Erika Dyson, associate professor of religious studies, Willard W. Keith Jr. Fellow in the Humanities<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Game of Democracy<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Student presenters:<\/strong> Miranda Brandt, Roman De Santos, Leilani Elkaslasy, Joshua Heinstein, Cameron Hernandez, Amanda Kitrell, Felix Peng, Marika Ragnartz, Theo Rode, Ben Simpson, Jack Van der Reis, Sara Wexler <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Advisors<\/strong>: Harriet Nembhard, president, Harvey Mudd College; Ken Fandell, Michael G. and C. Jane Wilson Professor in Arts and the Humanities<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Using Taryn Simon\u2019s work as an organizing metaphor and learning object, this course explores how randomness, fairness, engineering and aesthetics have shaped\u2014and could reshape\u2014democratic life. We explore historical precedents, contemporary dilemmas and speculative futures where STEM disciplines are called upon to uphold democratic ideals. Special guest speakers expanded the conversation and bring expertise from engineering, design, mathematics and political science. They offered creative and critical insights that challenge us to imagine new architectures of fairness and participation in democratic life. Students engaged in weekly discussions, interactive simulations and cross-disciplinary design thinking, culminating in the creation of their own \u201cdevices of democracy\u201d as a set of tools or systems meant to foster more just civic processes. This course offered a distinctive way to engage with the nation\u2019s semiquincentennial, exploring how a humanistic STEM education can renew the democratic ideals that shaped the American experiment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Math<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Math 73: Linear Algebra<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

The final project for Math 73 is a creative project, giving students the opportunity to connect the content of linear algebra in a way that is fun, meaningful, joyful, playful and\/or inspiring for them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Advisors:<\/strong> Robert Sanchez, assistant professor of mathematics and climate; Haydee Lindo, associate professor of mathematics; Emma Beer, visiting professor of mathematics<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Math 181: Dynamical Systems<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Student presenters:<\/strong> Corina Brazelton, Melinda Deng, Alan Gutierrez, Christian Johnson, Amanda Louie, Maddie Reeve, Aabhisaar Shrivastav (CHS), Cole Whitney (CGU)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Advisor:<\/strong> Heather Brooks, assistant professor of mathematics<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Students will present their final projects using mathematical modeling and dynamical systems. This year\u2019s topics include the evolution of languages, the dynamics of imposter syndrome, predator-prey systems, Hopfield systems and physical stress. 
<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Physics <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Astro 62: Introduction to Astrophysics<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Advisor:<\/strong> Daniel Tamayo, assistant professor of physics<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This astrophysics survey course is required for astronomy tracks of physics majors across the 5Cs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phys 64: Mathematical and Computational Methods for Physicists<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Advisor:<\/strong> Peter Saeta, professor of physics<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This course concludes with final projects, rather than a final exam. The project presentations are a celebration and sharing of these efforts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phys 170: Computational Physics<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Advisor:<\/strong> Eduardo Ibarra Garcia Padilla, assistant professor of physics<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This class is an upper-division course on Computational Methods for Physics. Students will present their final projects which lie at the intersection of several STEM fields, such as physics, chemistry and mathematics.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Shanahan Projects<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

CuteSnaps<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Student presenter:<\/strong> Amy Li <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Advisor:<\/strong> Zach Dodds, Leonhard-Johnson-Rae Professor of Computer Science, Entrepreneurship Studio director<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Amy Li presents a 5C photo booth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Harvey Mudd Racing (Formula SAE)<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Student presenters:<\/strong> Max Conine, Audrey Gruian, Hugo Guckert, Kathy Guo<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Advisor:<\/strong> Josh Brake, associate professor of engineering<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Harvey Mudd Racing (HMR) is HMC\u2019s rookie Formula SAE team, dedicated to designing, building, testing and racing a prototype Formula-style race car as part of SAE\u2019s international collegiate-level competition. HMR seeks to foster innovation, leadership and technical excellence, as well as provide students with an opportunity to hone real-world skills while contributing to a fast-paced and multidisciplinary project. In 2025\u20132026, HMR has worked to design and begin manufacturing their first competition car in preparation to compete in spring 2027.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

MARC Competition Rocket<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Student presenters:<\/strong> Kyra Burns, Jacob Fain, Naomi Horiguchi, Spencer Michaelson, Rai Wandeler<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Advisor:<\/strong> Leah Mendelson, associate professor of engineering<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mudd Amateur Rocketry Club (MARC) is Harvey Mudd\u2019s student rocketry club and team, dedicated to providing Mudders with the opportunity to explore a unique and rewarding hobby while building their hard and soft skills along the way. Following up the success of Gladius III, MARC\u2019s most recent competition rocket that placed third at the FAR Unlimited 2025 Competition, the team is looking to optimize their rocket design by developing robust manufacturing procedures and attempting to meet more ambitious competition objectives as they work towards their ultimate goal of launching in late May. This team-building experience provides students with an opportunity to tackle a challenging hands-on technical project across a variety of disciplines, from mechanical engineering to computer science. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Microelectrode Array<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Student presenters:<\/strong> Chlo\u00e9 Andrieux-Amade\u00ef, Enzo Katzen  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Advisor:<\/strong> Steven Santana, Joseph B. Platt Chair in Effective Teaching and associate professor of engineering<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Over the last decade, electrophysiology has become an essential tool across multiple areas of biology. In cardiology, EKGs are used to investigate and treat heart defects. In oncology, electrodes embedded in multiwell plates are used to rapidly identify the response of cancers to a variety of drugs. In neuroscience, microelectrode arrays (MEAs) are used to sense how neurons communicate via electrical impulses. More recently, MEAs have been used to study early neural development and to explore how biological neural networks can be applied to solve computational tasks. However, electrophysiology has one main drawback: the cost. Even entry-level hardware for the stimulation and recording of neurons typically exceeds $25,000. This project aims to create a complete, low-cost electrophysiology system comparable to products at the current low end of the MEA market, including a computer for data collection, an MEA and supporting hardware. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Role of Narrative Context in Hollywood Film Attentional Synchrony<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Student presenter:<\/strong> Lyra Cromwell<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Advisor:<\/strong> Calden Wloka, assistant professor of computer science<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When viewing a video, the similarity of participants\u2019 gaze motions (their attentional synchrony) is much higher than when viewing still images, suggesting that context and narrative has an effect on attentional synchrony. Prior work has shown higher attentional synchrony across scene cuts in viewers of Hollywood movies who saw footage preceding the cut, providing narrative context for the events onscreen, compared to viewers who saw only the post-cut footage. It is less clear, however, how attentional synchrony is affected by preceding narrative context in a continuous clip. This research project compares participants\u2019 long (with preceding narrative context) and short (no preceding context) Hollywood movie clip viewing behaviour to gauge how access to narrative context from viewing a whole continuous scene affects movie-watchers\u2019 attentional synchrony over the course of the clip\u2019s duration.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Biology Lyra Cromwell ppGpp: A Potential Regulator of dsrA Expression in E. coli During Cold Stress Advisors: Dan Stoebel, professor […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":2618,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-2613","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.hmc.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/2613","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.hmc.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.hmc.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.hmc.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.hmc.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2613"}],"version-history":[{"count":68,"href":"https:\/\/www.hmc.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/2613\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":3085,"href":"https:\/\/www.hmc.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/2613\/revisions\/3085"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.hmc.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/2618"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.hmc.edu\/research\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2613"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}