Danielle Pais is a research aide at the RISE Center with a diverse academic and research background. She holds an M.Sc. in Sociology from Ghent University and earned a B.S. in Biological Sciences (Neurobiology) and a B.A. in French from Arizona State University. Her research expertise spans benzodiazepine prescribing practices, accessibility for students with disabilities in higher education, and the development of active learning opportunities in online STEM environments.

Sriharsha Silasagaram is a freshman at Arizona State University studying Computer Science. With a passion for promoting diversity, Sriharsha joined the RISE research center to advocate for greater inclusivity in STEM, focusing on empowering minorities in the field of technology. Beyond academics, Sriharsha enjoys creative and reflective hobbies such as crocheting, knitting, and nature journaling.

Jusreen Kaur is an undergraduate student who is currently studying Molecular Sciences and Biotechnology with a certificate in Interdisciplinary Health Humanities. Given her ongoing research with molecular biomarkers aiding in vaccine development, she is interested in using her experiences to expand the RISE Center's impact in providing STEM education to the wider community. In her free time, she is an avid digital artist who enjoys drawing while listening to music as well as hanging out with friends!

Haley Patel is a sophomore at Arizona State University majoring in Medical Microbiology. Haley's academic interests include psychology, neuroscience, and immunology, with a focus on understanding how youth social interactions and environmental factors contribute to barriers in STEM fields. Outside of academics, Haley enjoys playing badminton and running. 

Lennessa Mazo is an undergraduate senior majoring in Biological Sciences with an emphasis in Public Health and is in the 4+1 Biology program at Arizona State University. She is a Research Assistant at the Banner Sun Health Research Institute in the Fluid Biomarker Program, where she focuses on Alzheimer’s disease and pTau research.

As a first-generation pre-med undergraduate student, Zahraa is passionate about bridging gaps in the STEM field. She is pursuing a degree in Biological Sciences with a focus in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior, along with a minor in Family and Human Development. Outside of academics, Zahraa enjoys working out, baking, and watching her favorite shows. As a RISE Ambassador, she is dedicated to making STEM accessible to individuals from all backgrounds and languages, fostering inclusivity and diversity in the field.
 

Scarlett is a first-generation, third-year student majoring in Biological Sciences. She is interested in bringing recognition to challenges taken on by underrepresented groups, such as first-generation and socioeconomically challenged students.

Mannat is an international student at Arizona State University, majoring in Neuroscience. Driven by a passion for advancing the field, Mannat aspires to pursue a career that seamlessly merges cutting-edge research, innovative solutions, and dedicated community service. At ASU, Mannat is committed to fostering meaningful connections and actively supporting initiatives that empower fellow students to excel both academically and personally. They are particularly passionate about promoting inclusivity and creating opportunities that leave a lasting and positive impact on the campus community.

In this episode of The APS Publications Podcast, join Tasneem F. Mohammed, Nolina Doud, Sara E. Brownell, and Katelyn M. Cooper as they discuss their recently published paper, "The Upside to Depression: Undergraduates Benefit from an Instructor Revealing Depression in a Large-Enrollment Physiology Course." In the study, an instructor of a large physiology course openly disclosed her depression to students on two separate occasions. The research explores how this revelation impacted students' perceptions of the instructor, the classroom environment, and their overall experience.