PREVIOUS MEMBERS

Jessica Weaver
Ex-offico/Co-founder

Department/program: Ph.D. Candidate, Department of Biology

About: I am a PhD candidate working to improve the production of valuable pharmaceuticals in the medicinal plant Catharanthus roseus. As a first-generation college student, I realize how fortunate I am to have had so many opportunities to succeed. Providing opportunities for success is of particular interest to me and was a driving factor for founding GWISE at Northeastern University.

My favorite book is . . . Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte.
My favorite quote is . . . “The function of education is to teach one to think intensively

Noreen Rizvi
Ex-offico/Co-founder

Department/program: Ph.D. Candidate, Department of Chemical Engineering

About: I am currently working on enhancing the production of anticancer pharmaceutical compounds from plant cell cultures through metabolic engineering, keeping in mind that future requirements cannot be satisfied by the low yield and high-cost of existing production. As a graduate student, I’ve come to realize how privileged I was to have mentors who guided me toward science and engineering. Through GWISE, I hope to similarly serve as a leader and assist in the advancement of women in science and academia.

Lauren Fitch
Ex-offico/Co-founder

Department/program: PhD Candidate, Department of Biology

About: I work with the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTb), which causes 1.5 million deaths each year worldwide. My goal is to determine which MTb genes allow it to survive antibiotic treament, and use this information to develop more effective tuberculosis treatments.

If I were not a scientist, I would be . . . a writer.

My motto is . . . be kind, be smart, be brave.

Sydney Shaw
Ex-offico/Co-founder

Department/program: PhD Candidate, Department of Chemical Engineering

About:   I am a PhD student in the Chemical Engineering department working in Prof. Carolyn Lee-Parsons’ laboratory on metabolic engineering of the medicinal plant Catharanthus roseus. My non-research interests include science policy issues, science and engineering outreach, and exploring the outdoors.

My favorite molecule is . . .  ATP
My favorite drink is . . . unfiltered wheat beer

Anvitha Anchala
Co-President

Anvitha(she/her) is a Master of Science in Robotics (EE) graduate from Northeastern University. As the Co-President of GWiSE, she aims to demonstrate her commitment to fostering a supportive environment for students and organizing events that empower their career growth while building a strong sense of community. With a deep-rooted passion for technology in healthcare, Anvitha aspires to make a significant impact by contributing to developing cutting-edge medical devices using Robotics.  In her leisure time, Anvitha enjoys reading, traveling, and baking!

Sakshi Bubna
Co-President

She is a Masters in Biotechnology graduate. She is passionate about Cancer immunology and biopharmaceutical sciences. She loves to cook, bake, travel, and do outdoor activities. She is passionate about driving drug discovery and therapeutic interventions to support patient and healthcare. She values an inclusive workplace, work-life balance, and focusses on accumulating new concepts and relationships.

Kyla Nichols
Co-President

Kyla is a 5^th year doctoral candidate in the Chemical Engineering Department at Northeastern. Her research studies the role of external factors, like metabolites produced by the microbiome, on enteric neuron function within the gut. She hopes to make discoveries related to the influence of diet and mental health on gut function. She has previously served as the Professional Development Chair for NU GWISE and enjoys helping womxn explore careers in underrepresented areas, like STEM. She is excited to serve as co-president and hopes to foster a safe and supportive environment in GWISE with opportunities to help its members grow. Outside of research, Kyla loves taking care of her cats, attending concerts, and playing board and video games.

Aditi Doshi
Co-President

Aditi was the 2023-2024 Co-President of GWiSE, and previously served as the New England GWiSE representative. She graduated from Northeastern University in May 2024 with a Master’s in Biotechnology Enterprise. She recently wrapped up her co-op experience at Moderna, where she worked as a Commercial co-op and developed a keen interest in the enterprise and strategic functions within the biotechnology sector. GWiSE has been instrumental in Aditi’s growth as a leader, providing her with invaluable experiences and the opportunity to connect with students and professionals from diverse backgrounds. Aditi is passionate about traveling the world, exploring new cuisines, and meeting new people. She’s always up for a friendly chat!

Sabrina Marnoto
Treasurer

I am a PhD candidate in chemical engineering focusing my research on complex fluids, microfluidics, and material properties. I joined GWiSE in my third year and immediately got involved as the community chair. My experience as the community chair laid down a foundation for remaining involved in GWiSE and further connecting with amazing and smart women in STEM. I later transitioned to vice president then treasurer. GWiSE has instilled a confidence in me as a women in science and helped be establish important connections in graduate school.

Bhumi Haria
Outreach Chair

Bhumi (she/her) is a graduate student in MS Biotechnology program at Northeastern University. Bhumi has vested in bridging the gap between the science and business of the healthcare industry and is passionate about creating a meaningful impact through her work in this field. Having been a part of GWISE for a year and now serving as the outreach chair, Bhumi wants to promote the club’s mission to empower and support women in STEM and ensure that the club continues to impact the lives of its members positively. She considers herself a lifelong learner and loves exploring new places and experiences. In her free time, Bhumi enjoys reading a good book and dancing.

Anvitha Anchala
Professional Development and Community Chair

Anvitha(she/her) is a graduate student pursuing Master of Science in Robotics (EE) at Northeastern University. As the Professional Development and Community Chair of GWiSE, she aims to demonstrate her commitment to fostering a supportive environment for students and organizing events that empower their career growth while building a strong sense of community. With a deep-rooted passion for technology in healthcare, Anvitha aspires to make a significant impact in the field by contributing to the development of cutting-edge medical devices using Robotics.  In her leisure time, Anvitha indulges in reading, traveling, and baking!

Vidhi Patel
New England GWISE Representative

She is a graduate student studying Information Systems with a concentration in UX Designing at Northeastern University. Passionate about creating inclusive solutions, Vidhi believes that design has the power to make a difference in the world. In her role as a New England GWISE Representative, she envisions inspiring, uplifting, and empowering women in STEM. Moreover, Vidhi enjoys culinary exploration, loves singing and playing the guitar, and is an occasional vlogger, documenting her adventures and experiences. With a creative spirit, Vidhi embraces every moment with enthusiasm and zest! 

Sakshi Bubna
Diversity, Inclusion, and Equity Chair 

She is a graduate student in the Masters in Biotechnology program. She is passionate about Cancer biology and biopharmaceutical sciences. She loves to cook, bake, travel, and do outdoor activities. Integrating DIE in science and laboratory experience could have ever-lasting transformative effects and she believes being a part of GWISE would help her realize some of this.  

Shrav K
President & Advocacy Committee Chair

Shrav is a PhD student in BioEngineering. Her research involves 3D printing of highly aligned collagen, with applications in collagenous structure repair (e.g. tendon damage, cornea replacement). Having been part of several student clubs before, I value the environment where I can lead an enthusiastic, smart team in a beautifully organized structure with great support from our advisors/administrators.

If you could learn to do anything, what would it be? To learn how to fly!

Elena Gonzalez Sosto
Treasurer

Elena is an MSc. in Engineering and Public Policy (with a concentration in Energy and Environment) student from Costa Rica. There she worked in infrastructure and building projects as a Civil Engineer, and developed a passion for understanding the socioeconomic benefits and consequences construction projects bring to their surroundings. She loves learning new crafts and hobbies, is currently immersed in the world of orchids, and also enjoys spending time outdoors.

Katie Vilardi  
Co-President

Katie Vilardi is a PhD student in Civil and Environmental Engineering. Her research investigates the ecophysiology of complete ammonia-oxidizing bacteria at drinking water and wastewater treatment plants. Katie is passionate about creating a strong, supportive grad community at Northeastern. She enjoys taking spin classes, drinking coffee, and reading anything from J.D. Salinger to Lauren Weisberger.

Nuhiya Rafeeq

I am a Master’s student in Information Systems. I have over 3 years of experience working with Data in Finance and Telecom Domains. I aspire to solve real-world problems using Data Science and Software Engineering.

If I were not an engineer, I would be … a travel writer.
If I could be any age I would be 18, old enough to drive and young enough to make a lot of mistakes and learn from them.
I can never resist good food..!!

Marissa Giel
NE GWISE liaison/advertisement

Judith Piet
Advertisement / Marketing

I am a PhD Candidate in the Department of Bioengineering. I am a French engineer. I am doing my PhD in Prof. Shefelbine’s M4 lab and I work on restoring mechanosensitivity to aged bones.

The worst advice I have ever been given was … “Don’t dress up as Marie Curie for Halloween.” Obviously, it’s a great costume.
The best advice I have ever been given is … “Don’t try to look smart, make the audience feel smart.”

Eliza Zalis
Secretary

I am a graduate student in the Department of Biology. I work in Kim Lewis’s lab researching Staphylococcus aureus and microbial persistence. We are trying to figure out what makes it possible for the bacteria that cause chronic infections to tolerate antibiotics. When I am not in the lab, I spend my time hiking, biking, reading, and cooking.

The worst advice I’ve ever been given: “Bring an umbrella – just in case.”
I can never resist: free food

Farimah Mapar
Programs Chair

I am a Ph.D. candidate in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering. My research focuses on modeling, analysis, and predicting the behavior of complex and dynamical networks. In my spare time, I enjoy tutoring and helping educate the next generation of accomplished women.

My favorite quote is: … Choose a Job You Love, and You Will Never Have To Work a Day in Your Life
The most joyful moment for me is … When I make someone smile.

Mahboobeh Rezaeeyazdi
Treasurer

I am a graduate student in the Department of Chemical Engineering. I am from Shiraz, Iran. I work in Prof. Bencherif’s lab “Laboratory for Advanced and Multifunctional Polymeric Biomaterials (LAMP Biomaterials)” where my research is on the synthesis and optimization of novel polymeric biomaterials for efficient cancer vaccine delivery.

My favorite movie is “defending your life”
If I were not a scientist, I would be a gardener or a baker!

Jaclyn Lock
Vice President

I am a graduate student in the Department of Bioengineering in Dr. Rebecca Carrier’s Advanced Drug Delivery Research lab. My research aim is to understand the intestinal mucus barrier and how its properties are altered in the presence of different food and in various disease states.

My favorite activity that helps me to relax is. . . baking.
If I could be any lab equipment, I would be . . . a fluorescent microscope.

Michelle Stolzoff
President

I am a PhD Candidate in the Department of Bioengineering working in Prof. Thomas Webster’s nanomedicine lab. My work involves the design and optimization of nanocomposites for anti-bacterial, inflammatory, and cancer applications. I’ve always been involved with science and engineering outreach, and it’s one of the many reasons I’ve become involved with GWISE.

My favorite scientist is . . . Nikola Tesla
My biggest fan is . . . probably my parents. I am their only child after all.

Sevtap Duman
Treasurer

I am a research assistant at the College of Computer & Information Science and a member of NEU SecLab. My research focuses on systems and Internet security. More specifically, I try to detect and prevent Internet fraud/threat on multiple platforms, under multiple guises. Besides research, I like reading and outdoor sports.

My axiom is . . . everything I dream becomes real, and this is my power.
My favorite time during the day is … now

Jessica Fitzgerald
Treasurer

I am a second-year Bioengineering Ph.D. student at Northeastern. Jessica is passionate about working on interdisciplinary projects to improve quality of life in the nanomedical field and reaching the younger generation of women in STEM fields.

My favorite quote is … “Everybody is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid.” ~Einstein
If I were not a scientist, …  I would run my own bakery/cafe

Jennifer Morales
Director of Recruiting

I am a doctoral student and a NSF graduate fellow working in Bioengineering and Pharmaceutical Sciences. My research is based on novel fluorescent nanosensors for sensing neurotransmitter transmission within a synapse.
My favorite Boston Getaway is … Green Necklace running path
If I were not a scientist, I would … open a cake and coffee shop!

Yeva Yue Shan 
Director of Fundraising

I am a Ph.D. candidate in the Department of Biology. I study bacteriology. My research focuses on the genetic basis of persister formation and the mechanism of antibiotic tolerance. This research will provide insights into chronic infection eradication.

If I were not a scientist, I would be … a film director.
My biggest motivation is …curiosity.

Marissa Puzan
Director of Outreach

I am a Chemical Engineering PhD student from Atlanta, GA. I work in Dr. Abigail Koppes’ Advanced Biomaterials for Neuroengineering Labratory (ABNEL), where my work focuses on designing an in vitro model of the intestine to study interactions between the epithelium in the small intestine and the neurons and glia of the enteric nervous system.

My favorite molecule is serotonin.
If I were not a scientist, I would be an architect.

Jordie Kamuene
President

PhD Student in Biomedical Science​, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, Pharmaceutical Sciences Department​
Research interests: Pharmacology and physiology of ion channels in the heart

I am passionate about diversity and inclusion in STEM education, public health, and service.
I love watching reruns of my favorite shows, cooking, reading, and trying new cusines.
I love GWiSE because of the wonderful community of women that work together to advocate for each other.

Miyuki Gomez
Vice-President

Student in Biotechnology, College of Science
Research interests: Biopharmaceutical Analysis, Regulatory Science and Affairs

My GWiSE community has given me so much support during some difficult times reminding me of what I am capable of accomplishing. I would like to continue to work on our united mission of bridging the gaps is why I decided to be a part of GWiSE EBoard.

Alicia Wagner
Secretary

PhD Student in Chemistry, Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology
Research interests: Drug discovery and optimization for antimalarial drugs

I love GWiSE because it creates a welcoming and inclusive community of women in different STEM fields which allows me to learn from other’s experiences.

Alanna Sparagna
Treasurer

MS Student in Mechanical Engineering, Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering
Research Interests: Advanced materials processing, Cold spray technologies

I love outdoor sports like snowboarding and kitesurfing. I enjoy daily running near Charles River.
GWiSE makes me feel like a part of a society that understands and supports each other.

Pallak Singh
GSG Senate Liaison

MS Student in Computer Systems Engineering, Department of Multidisciplinary Graduate Engineering
Research interests: Cyber Physical Systems, Robotics, Machine Learning, Healthcare Technology

I am passionate about food, graphic design, and computers! I love baking, painting, reading and cooking.
I love GWiSE for its building a community to empower and inspire more women to pursue a career in STEM and overcome the hurdles that come with it.

Bella Leiwant
Advocacy Committee Chair

MS/CAGS Student in School Psychology, Department of Applied Psychology
Research interests: School-based interventions to promote mental and physical health; addressing racial and ethnic disparities in school-based behavioral health services

I enjoy hiking, reading, and meeting new cats.
I love GWiSE because I am passionate about advocating for inclusion and diversity in science, and enjoy getting to know graduate students from other disciplines.

Sara Falleni
Media and Advertising Committee Chair

PhD Candidate in Computer Engineering, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering
Research interests: Underwater Communications and Networking with a focus on the design of MAC protocols for Static and Mobile Underwater Sensor Networks

My passions are Photography, Digital Design, and Track and Field. I love watching sunsets and Travelling.
I love GWiSE for its mission to build a community of women who can support each other.

Carolyn Liu
GWiSE Campus Liaison

MS in Mechanical Engineering (‘22), Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering
Research interests: Renewable/alternative energy harvesting and storage

My passions are Environmental and Animal Welfare. I love traveling, hiking, eating, and hanging out with animals.
I love GWiSE for supporting women in STEM and paving the way for improving equity in the professional workspace.

Kris Govertsen
Community Committee Chair

PhD student in Interdisciplinary Engineering. MS Sustainable Building Systems
I study thermal resilience to reduce racial and income disparities to improve resilience to climate change.

I enjoy stand-up specials, knitting, playing with my two cats, hiking, and coaching a local softball team.
GWiSE allowed me to form relationships with other like-minded, driven, talented, intellectual women through professional and personal community events.

Sabrina Civale
Outreach Committee Chair

MS student in Bioengineering in Biomedical Devices and Optics, Department of Bioengineering
Research interests: I work on neuron regeneration and post-image processing of fluorescent microscopy images

I play the bass guitar, knit, and play DnD (Dungeons and Dragons).
I’m excited to be a part of GWISE and help foster a support network for women, members of underrepresented minorities, and LGBTQ+ individuals to feel safe in all areas of STEM.

Drishti Parwanda
NE GWiSE Liaison Committee Chair

MS student in Biotechnology, College of Science
Research interests: Molecular Biotechnology, Immunology and Cell Biology

I like to read, binge-watch, and explore the Great Outdoors. I love listening and playing music, traveling to new places, trying out new cuisines. My bucket list includes trying out every new adventure sport that exists!
I love being part of New England and Northeastern GWiSE because they believe in fostering a safe and equitable STEM community.