Past Research Associates
Aamna Cheema
Research Committee Head
Major in Neurobiology and Physiology
University of Maryland, College Park December '24
Pre-Professional Track: MD
Aamna graduated from the University of Maryland in December 2024 with a degree in Neurobiology and Physiology. She is an incoming M1 at UMSOM'29. Within RAP-EMCC, Aamna was the research committee head.
Research Committee Head
Major in Neurobiology and Physiology
University of Maryland, College Park December '24
Pre-Professional Track: MD
Aamna graduated from the University of Maryland in December 2024 with a degree in Neurobiology and Physiology. She is an incoming M1 at UMSOM'29. Within RAP-EMCC, Aamna was the research committee head.
Japneet Singh
CCRU Point of Contact
Major in Neurobiology and Physiology
University of Maryland, College Park '23
Pre-Professional Track: MD
Japneet graduated from the University of Maryland in 2023 with a degree in Neurobiology and Physiology. She is an incoming M1 at WVSOM'29. Within RAP-EMCC, Japneet was the CCRU study point of contact.
CCRU Point of Contact
Major in Neurobiology and Physiology
University of Maryland, College Park '23
Pre-Professional Track: MD
Japneet graduated from the University of Maryland in 2023 with a degree in Neurobiology and Physiology. She is an incoming M1 at WVSOM'29. Within RAP-EMCC, Japneet was the CCRU study point of contact.
Tesia Shi
Research Associate
Major in Psychology and Biology
University of Maryland, College Park '23
Pre-Professional Track: TBD
After prior basic science research experiences, Tesia was interested in exploring clinical research and examining
how data could more directly improve patient care. Tesia is currently involved in the VV ECMO project! In her free time, she enjoys going on walks and munching on bagels.
Research Associate
Major in Psychology and Biology
University of Maryland, College Park '23
Pre-Professional Track: TBD
After prior basic science research experiences, Tesia was interested in exploring clinical research and examining
how data could more directly improve patient care. Tesia is currently involved in the VV ECMO project! In her free time, she enjoys going on walks and munching on bagels.
Vainavi Gambhir
Research Associate
Major in Biology: Physiology and Neurobiology
University of Maryland, College Park '25
Pre-Professional Track: MD
Vainavi Gambhir joining the RAP-EMCC program in January of 2022 for the unique opportunity to gain mentorship under UMSOM faculty and develop a strong foundation in clinical research. Currently, Vainavi is part of the diffuse axonal injury retrospective project. Beyond the classroom, she is a certified children's yoga instructor and Madhubani folk artist, and enjoys developing these skills in her spare time. Additionally, she is trilingual and has lived across the globe in Oregon, Chengdu, California, Shanghai, Singapore, and Maryland.
Research Associate
Major in Biology: Physiology and Neurobiology
University of Maryland, College Park '25
Pre-Professional Track: MD
Vainavi Gambhir joining the RAP-EMCC program in January of 2022 for the unique opportunity to gain mentorship under UMSOM faculty and develop a strong foundation in clinical research. Currently, Vainavi is part of the diffuse axonal injury retrospective project. Beyond the classroom, she is a certified children's yoga instructor and Madhubani folk artist, and enjoys developing these skills in her spare time. Additionally, she is trilingual and has lived across the globe in Oregon, Chengdu, California, Shanghai, Singapore, and Maryland.
Saad Pirzada
Membership Committee Co-Leader
Research Associate
Major: Biology: Physiology and Neurobiology
University of Maryland, College Park '23
Pre-Professional Track: MD-PhD
Saad Pirzada is a graduate of the University of Maryland, College Park with a degree in biological sciences with a specialization in neurobiology and physiology. His interests are at the intersection of cognition, health literacy disparities, and technology. In his free time, he enjoys reading, playing basketball, watching sports, and cooking.
Membership Committee Co-Leader
Research Associate
Major: Biology: Physiology and Neurobiology
University of Maryland, College Park '23
Pre-Professional Track: MD-PhD
Saad Pirzada is a graduate of the University of Maryland, College Park with a degree in biological sciences with a specialization in neurobiology and physiology. His interests are at the intersection of cognition, health literacy disparities, and technology. In his free time, he enjoys reading, playing basketball, watching sports, and cooking.
Kaitlyn Tang
Research Associate
Major: Biology: Cell Biology and Genetics
Minors: Nonprofit Leadership and Spanish
University of Maryland, College Park '22
Pre-Professional Track: MD
Kaitlyn is a senior at the University of Maryland, College Park. Upon graduating, she plans to take a gap year before attending medical school to become a pediatrician. In the future, she hopes to serve on the Board of Directors of a nonprofit that works towards achieving pediatric health equity. Kaitlyn recently joined the Research Associate Program in Critical Care and Emergency Medicine to further expand her clinical research experience. She is eager to contribute to projects with the team and learn more about the world of emergency medicine. Aside from academics and research, her interests include mentoring elementary school students with the Maryland Reading Program, learning about new cultures, videography, and cooking Vietnamese food with her mother and grandma.
Research Associate
Major: Biology: Cell Biology and Genetics
Minors: Nonprofit Leadership and Spanish
University of Maryland, College Park '22
Pre-Professional Track: MD
Kaitlyn is a senior at the University of Maryland, College Park. Upon graduating, she plans to take a gap year before attending medical school to become a pediatrician. In the future, she hopes to serve on the Board of Directors of a nonprofit that works towards achieving pediatric health equity. Kaitlyn recently joined the Research Associate Program in Critical Care and Emergency Medicine to further expand her clinical research experience. She is eager to contribute to projects with the team and learn more about the world of emergency medicine. Aside from academics and research, her interests include mentoring elementary school students with the Maryland Reading Program, learning about new cultures, videography, and cooking Vietnamese food with her mother and grandma.
Manal Faisal
Research Associate
Major: Biology: Neurobiology and Physiology
Minor: Health Humanities and Medicine
University of Maryland, College Park '23
Pre-Professional Track: MD
Manal Faisal is one of the new members of the Research Associate for the Emergency Medicine and Critical Care Research Associate Program. She is currently a rising junior at the University of Maryland, College Park majoring in Biology with a concentration in Neurobiology and Physiology and minoring in Health, Humanities, & Medicine on the pre-medical track. She is one step away from becoming a certified Emergency Medical Technician and hopes to begin working soon. She is looking forward to getting to know everyone in RAP-EMCC and becoming involved with projects. Besides research and school, she likes to spend her free time experimenting with baking. She enjoys baking various desserts and selling them around the community during the summer time.
Research Associate
Major: Biology: Neurobiology and Physiology
Minor: Health Humanities and Medicine
University of Maryland, College Park '23
Pre-Professional Track: MD
Manal Faisal is one of the new members of the Research Associate for the Emergency Medicine and Critical Care Research Associate Program. She is currently a rising junior at the University of Maryland, College Park majoring in Biology with a concentration in Neurobiology and Physiology and minoring in Health, Humanities, & Medicine on the pre-medical track. She is one step away from becoming a certified Emergency Medical Technician and hopes to begin working soon. She is looking forward to getting to know everyone in RAP-EMCC and becoming involved with projects. Besides research and school, she likes to spend her free time experimenting with baking. She enjoys baking various desserts and selling them around the community during the summer time.
Aditi Singh
Head of Research Committee 2022-2024
B.S. in Biology: Physiology and Neurobiology
University of Maryland, College Park ‘22
Pre-Professional Track: MD
Aditi graduated from the University of Maryland, College Park with degrees in Neurobiology and Psychology in 2022. She is currently working as a medical assistant at a dermatology practice and has been a volunteer with the Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network since 2019. She joined RAP-EMCC in June 2021 and has worked on various retrospective studies since then. She currently serves as the head of the research committee. In her free time, Aditi enjoys reading, creative writing, and knitting.
Head of Research Committee 2022-2024
B.S. in Biology: Physiology and Neurobiology
University of Maryland, College Park ‘22
Pre-Professional Track: MD
Aditi graduated from the University of Maryland, College Park with degrees in Neurobiology and Psychology in 2022. She is currently working as a medical assistant at a dermatology practice and has been a volunteer with the Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network since 2019. She joined RAP-EMCC in June 2021 and has worked on various retrospective studies since then. She currently serves as the head of the research committee. In her free time, Aditi enjoys reading, creative writing, and knitting.
Isha Yardi
Chief 2023-2024
Membership Committee Member
Group Leader 2020 - 2021
Major: Public Health Science
University of Maryland, College Park '23
Pre-Professional Track: MD/MPH
Isha’s research interests include social epidemiology, translational health policy research, and research at the intersection of clinical medicine and public health. With RAP-EMCC, she enjoys working on retrospective data studies, meta-analyses, and the program’s in-hospital prospective clinical research projects. Isha is also one of the senior research associates who trains new research associates on how to conduct quality assessments of articles in a meta-analysis using using both the Newcastle Ottawa Scale (NOS) and the Revised Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool for randomized trials (RoB2). Outside of RAP-EMCC, Isha is a member of Gemstone at UMD, assists with research in the School of Public Health, and is involved in public health projects on and off campus. She also serves on the Executive Board for the Journal of Young Investigators, an undergraduate student research publication, and works as a Student Coordinator at the Do Good Institute. In her free-time, Isha enjoys reading, rock climbing, and traveling with her family.
Chief 2023-2024
Membership Committee Member
Group Leader 2020 - 2021
Major: Public Health Science
University of Maryland, College Park '23
Pre-Professional Track: MD/MPH
Isha’s research interests include social epidemiology, translational health policy research, and research at the intersection of clinical medicine and public health. With RAP-EMCC, she enjoys working on retrospective data studies, meta-analyses, and the program’s in-hospital prospective clinical research projects. Isha is also one of the senior research associates who trains new research associates on how to conduct quality assessments of articles in a meta-analysis using using both the Newcastle Ottawa Scale (NOS) and the Revised Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool for randomized trials (RoB2). Outside of RAP-EMCC, Isha is a member of Gemstone at UMD, assists with research in the School of Public Health, and is involved in public health projects on and off campus. She also serves on the Executive Board for the Journal of Young Investigators, an undergraduate student research publication, and works as a Student Coordinator at the Do Good Institute. In her free-time, Isha enjoys reading, rock climbing, and traveling with her family.
Ayah Aligabi
Group Leader 2022-2024
Patient Centered Sedation Outcomes in Mechanically Ventilated Trauma Patients: Point of Contact for non-traumatic brain injuries (non-TBI) 2022-2024
Major: Biology
Minor: Psychology
University of Maryland, Baltimore County '22
Pre-Professional Track: MD/PhD
Ayah Aligabi’s research interests include Neurology, Biology, and Biomechanics. Within the research associate program, she enjoys working together with other associates on retrospective studies and getting the opportunity to interact with patients for clinical studies. Outside of the hospital, Ayah is an award-funded researcher working on a novel project to discover a link between neurology and the immune system in Drosophila melanogaster. She spends the remainder of her time volunteering as an ESOL tutor, Best Buddies partner, and EMT-B. In her free time she enjoys reading, figure skating, and roller skating.
Group Leader 2022-2024
Patient Centered Sedation Outcomes in Mechanically Ventilated Trauma Patients: Point of Contact for non-traumatic brain injuries (non-TBI) 2022-2024
Major: Biology
Minor: Psychology
University of Maryland, Baltimore County '22
Pre-Professional Track: MD/PhD
Ayah Aligabi’s research interests include Neurology, Biology, and Biomechanics. Within the research associate program, she enjoys working together with other associates on retrospective studies and getting the opportunity to interact with patients for clinical studies. Outside of the hospital, Ayah is an award-funded researcher working on a novel project to discover a link between neurology and the immune system in Drosophila melanogaster. She spends the remainder of her time volunteering as an ESOL tutor, Best Buddies partner, and EMT-B. In her free time she enjoys reading, figure skating, and roller skating.
Nikki Emamian
Group Leader 2022-2024
Editor-in-Chief of Research Archives 2022-2024
Majors (Double Degree): Biological Sciences: General and Public Health Science
University of Maryland, College Park '23
Pre-Professional Track: Medicine
Nikki Emamian is a senior undergraduate student at the University of Maryland, College Park working towards a dual degree in Biological Sciences: General and Public Health Science. Upon her future graduation in May 2023, she hopes to attend medical school! Nikki joined the RAP-EMCC team as a Research Associate in June 2021, and enjoys engaging with patients, gaining experience working on multiple retrospective projects, as well as data analysis. Outside of RAP-EMCC, Nikki is involved with an epidemiology lab at UMD’s School of Public Health, serves as the Senior Advisor for the UMD Iranian Students’ Foundation, and isa graduate of the Entrepreneurship and Innovation Honors program. In her free time, Nikki enjoys mentoring refugee students in the College Park area.
Group Leader 2022-2024
Editor-in-Chief of Research Archives 2022-2024
Majors (Double Degree): Biological Sciences: General and Public Health Science
University of Maryland, College Park '23
Pre-Professional Track: Medicine
Nikki Emamian is a senior undergraduate student at the University of Maryland, College Park working towards a dual degree in Biological Sciences: General and Public Health Science. Upon her future graduation in May 2023, she hopes to attend medical school! Nikki joined the RAP-EMCC team as a Research Associate in June 2021, and enjoys engaging with patients, gaining experience working on multiple retrospective projects, as well as data analysis. Outside of RAP-EMCC, Nikki is involved with an epidemiology lab at UMD’s School of Public Health, serves as the Senior Advisor for the UMD Iranian Students’ Foundation, and isa graduate of the Entrepreneurship and Innovation Honors program. In her free time, Nikki enjoys mentoring refugee students in the College Park area.
Anastasia Ternovskaia
Head of Statistical and Data Analysis Committee 2022-2024
Archives Committee Writer
B.S. in Biology: Physiology and Neurobiology
University of Maryland, College Park '22
Pre-Professional Track: Medicine
Anastasia is a post-graduate member taking a gap year while applying to medical school. Aside from pursuing her interests in research as part of the program, she also works as a medical assistant in a gynecology office and volunteers as a tutor for incarcerated individuals as part of the Petey Greene Program. Within the program, she is currently participating in two retrospective studies by conducting data collection and statistical analysis. She serves as the Head of Statistical and Data Analysis Committee, and hopes to teach other members on the process of data collection and analysis so they are able to expand their professional skill set. In her free time, she is an avid tennis player and tennis coach and loves spending time outdoors.
Head of Statistical and Data Analysis Committee 2022-2024
Archives Committee Writer
B.S. in Biology: Physiology and Neurobiology
University of Maryland, College Park '22
Pre-Professional Track: Medicine
Anastasia is a post-graduate member taking a gap year while applying to medical school. Aside from pursuing her interests in research as part of the program, she also works as a medical assistant in a gynecology office and volunteers as a tutor for incarcerated individuals as part of the Petey Greene Program. Within the program, she is currently participating in two retrospective studies by conducting data collection and statistical analysis. She serves as the Head of Statistical and Data Analysis Committee, and hopes to teach other members on the process of data collection and analysis so they are able to expand their professional skill set. In her free time, she is an avid tennis player and tennis coach and loves spending time outdoors.
Jane Quackenbush
Research Associate
Major in General Biology and Psychology
Minor in Human Development
University of Maryland, College Park '23
Pre-Professional Track: MD
Jane Quackenbush is an incoming senior at the University of Maryland, College Park. She is pursuing a double degree in biology and psychology and a minor in human development on a pre-medical track with specific interest in obstetrics and gynecology. In addition to her clinical research, Jane is also pursuing a biology honors thesis related to molecular genetics in entomology and volunteers in local non-profit clinics as a clinical assistant and scribe as well as volunteering as an elementary school tutor. She likes to spend her time outside of school and extracurriculars painting, knitting, growing her plant collection and taking her pet bunny on walks.
Research Associate
Major in General Biology and Psychology
Minor in Human Development
University of Maryland, College Park '23
Pre-Professional Track: MD
Jane Quackenbush is an incoming senior at the University of Maryland, College Park. She is pursuing a double degree in biology and psychology and a minor in human development on a pre-medical track with specific interest in obstetrics and gynecology. In addition to her clinical research, Jane is also pursuing a biology honors thesis related to molecular genetics in entomology and volunteers in local non-profit clinics as a clinical assistant and scribe as well as volunteering as an elementary school tutor. She likes to spend her time outside of school and extracurriculars painting, knitting, growing her plant collection and taking her pet bunny on walks.
Anya Plotnikova
Research Associate
B.S. in Neuroscience
Minor: Chemistry
University of Pittsburgh '21
Pre-Professional Track: MD
Anya is a post-graduate member taking a gap year while applying to medical school. She currently is a IRTA Research Fellow at the NIH while working as a research associate with us. Within the program, she has participated in retrospective studies and continues to remain active as an interviewee at the last interviewing panel event RAP-EMCC hosted in Jan. of 2023.
Research Associate
B.S. in Neuroscience
Minor: Chemistry
University of Pittsburgh '21
Pre-Professional Track: MD
Anya is a post-graduate member taking a gap year while applying to medical school. She currently is a IRTA Research Fellow at the NIH while working as a research associate with us. Within the program, she has participated in retrospective studies and continues to remain active as an interviewee at the last interviewing panel event RAP-EMCC hosted in Jan. of 2023.
Maie Abdel-Wahab
Associate Chief 2022-2023
Website Committee Member
Major: Biology: Physiology and Neurobiology
University of Maryland, College Park '22
Pre-Professional Track: MD
Maie Abdel-Wahab is a post-graduate member taking a gap year while applying to medical school. Upon her graduation in May 2022, she has been working as a medical assistant in a urogynecology office while continuing to volunteer and conduct research. Her dream is to become a medical doctor and work with infants or children but her mind is open to exploring other fields. Within the Research Associate’s program, she serves as an associate chief, oversees the various committees in the project and has participated in multiple retrospective studies. In her free time, she enjoys practicing and teaching yoga, spending time outdoors, volunteering and reading!
Associate Chief 2022-2023
Website Committee Member
Major: Biology: Physiology and Neurobiology
University of Maryland, College Park '22
Pre-Professional Track: MD
Maie Abdel-Wahab is a post-graduate member taking a gap year while applying to medical school. Upon her graduation in May 2022, she has been working as a medical assistant in a urogynecology office while continuing to volunteer and conduct research. Her dream is to become a medical doctor and work with infants or children but her mind is open to exploring other fields. Within the Research Associate’s program, she serves as an associate chief, oversees the various committees in the project and has participated in multiple retrospective studies. In her free time, she enjoys practicing and teaching yoga, spending time outdoors, volunteering and reading!
Manahel Zahid
Chief Web Officer 2021-2023
Archives Committee Writer
B.S. in Public Health Science
University of Maryland, College Park '21
Pre-Professional Track: Pre-Medical
Manahel Zahid has been a research associate in the RAP-EMCC program since April 2021. She later was appointed as Chief Web Office to improve accessibility of research through increasing outreach of the program and its research findings. She recently graduated from the University of Maryland, College Park with a B.S. in Public Health Science. Apart from RAP-EMCC, Manahel is also currently an IRTA post-baccalaureate fellow in the Clinical Trials Unit at NINDS of the NIH. She is passionate about advocacy for access to equitable care and co-founded the UMD chapter of Universities Allied for Essential Medicines (UAEM) to achieve this. Aside from research, she works as a tutor for Afghan refugees and also enjoys exploring new cultures through travel, food, and music in her free time!
Chief Web Officer 2021-2023
Archives Committee Writer
B.S. in Public Health Science
University of Maryland, College Park '21
Pre-Professional Track: Pre-Medical
Manahel Zahid has been a research associate in the RAP-EMCC program since April 2021. She later was appointed as Chief Web Office to improve accessibility of research through increasing outreach of the program and its research findings. She recently graduated from the University of Maryland, College Park with a B.S. in Public Health Science. Apart from RAP-EMCC, Manahel is also currently an IRTA post-baccalaureate fellow in the Clinical Trials Unit at NINDS of the NIH. She is passionate about advocacy for access to equitable care and co-founded the UMD chapter of Universities Allied for Essential Medicines (UAEM) to achieve this. Aside from research, she works as a tutor for Afghan refugees and also enjoys exploring new cultures through travel, food, and music in her free time!
Hammad Baqai
Patient Centered Sedation Outcomes in Mechanically Ventilated Trauma Patients: Point of Contact for traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
Major(s): Biology: Neurobiology and Physiology and Public Health Science (Dual Degree)
University of Maryland, College Park '23
Pre-Professional Track: MD/MPH
Hammad’s research interests include emergency medicine patient management, traumatic brain injury, and health disparities as it relates to access to access to clinical care. In RAP-EMCC, he enjoys working on retrospective data studies, meta-analyses, and the program’s in-hospital prospective clinical research projects. Outside of RAP-EMCC, Hammad is a member of several campus organizations including The Integrated Life Sciences program at UMD, UMD’s chapter of Phi Delta Epsilon, Penny Appeal UMD (a service organization on campus), and Maryland Mauj, an organization dedicated to the planning and hosting of a nationwide bhangra competition. He also enjoys hiking, photography, and spending time with friends.
Patient Centered Sedation Outcomes in Mechanically Ventilated Trauma Patients: Point of Contact for traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
Major(s): Biology: Neurobiology and Physiology and Public Health Science (Dual Degree)
University of Maryland, College Park '23
Pre-Professional Track: MD/MPH
Hammad’s research interests include emergency medicine patient management, traumatic brain injury, and health disparities as it relates to access to access to clinical care. In RAP-EMCC, he enjoys working on retrospective data studies, meta-analyses, and the program’s in-hospital prospective clinical research projects. Outside of RAP-EMCC, Hammad is a member of several campus organizations including The Integrated Life Sciences program at UMD, UMD’s chapter of Phi Delta Epsilon, Penny Appeal UMD (a service organization on campus), and Maryland Mauj, an organization dedicated to the planning and hosting of a nationwide bhangra competition. He also enjoys hiking, photography, and spending time with friends.
Vera Bzhilyanskaya
Chief 2021-2023
Archives Committee Writer
Website Committee Member
B.S. in Biology: Physiology and Neurobiology
University of Maryland, College Park '21
Pre-Professional Track: MD
Through the Research Associate Program in Emergency Medicine and Critical Care, Vera has been primarily involved in conducting quality assessments for meta-analyses, data extraction for retrospective research studies, and the in-hospital prospective clinical research projects. Through the quality assessments, Vera is also part of a team that trains new research associates on how to conduct quality assessments on articles in a meta-analysis using both the Newcastle Ottawa Scale (NOS) and the Revised Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool for randomized trials (RoB2). Apart from RAP-EMCC, Vera is also currently an IRTA post-baccalaureate fellow in the genetic immunotherapy section at NIAID. In her free time, Vera enjoys walking her dog (a Shetland sheepdog) and going hiking with her friends. Vera also occasionally volunteers as a volunteer liaison at an animal rescue organization called Lucky Dog Animal Rescue.
Chief 2021-2023
Archives Committee Writer
Website Committee Member
B.S. in Biology: Physiology and Neurobiology
University of Maryland, College Park '21
Pre-Professional Track: MD
Through the Research Associate Program in Emergency Medicine and Critical Care, Vera has been primarily involved in conducting quality assessments for meta-analyses, data extraction for retrospective research studies, and the in-hospital prospective clinical research projects. Through the quality assessments, Vera is also part of a team that trains new research associates on how to conduct quality assessments on articles in a meta-analysis using both the Newcastle Ottawa Scale (NOS) and the Revised Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool for randomized trials (RoB2). Apart from RAP-EMCC, Vera is also currently an IRTA post-baccalaureate fellow in the genetic immunotherapy section at NIAID. In her free time, Vera enjoys walking her dog (a Shetland sheepdog) and going hiking with her friends. Vera also occasionally volunteers as a volunteer liaison at an animal rescue organization called Lucky Dog Animal Rescue.
Milana Shapsay
Research Associate 2022-2023
Archives Committee Writer
B.S. in Biological Sciences: General Biology
University of Maryland, College Park ‘16
Pre-Professional Track: PA
Milana joined the RAP-EMCC program in January 2022 and is currently leading a retrospective study on patients with spontaneous intraparenchymal hemorrhage. She enjoys writing articles for the archives journal and working with caring faculty and students who are committed to improving patient outcomes. Outside of RAP-EMCC, she enjoys helping elementary students in Baltimore City with reading skills, volunteering with JDC Entwine and painting.
Research Associate 2022-2023
Archives Committee Writer
B.S. in Biological Sciences: General Biology
University of Maryland, College Park ‘16
Pre-Professional Track: PA
Milana joined the RAP-EMCC program in January 2022 and is currently leading a retrospective study on patients with spontaneous intraparenchymal hemorrhage. She enjoys writing articles for the archives journal and working with caring faculty and students who are committed to improving patient outcomes. Outside of RAP-EMCC, she enjoys helping elementary students in Baltimore City with reading skills, volunteering with JDC Entwine and painting.
Saman Tanveer
CCRU Satisfaction Survey Point of Contact 2020 - 2022
B.S. in Public Health Science
University of Maryland, College Park '19
Currently: Medical Tester at Capital Diagnostics
Pre-Professional Track: DDS/DMD
Saman Tanveer is an alumnus at the University of Maryland in College Park. She graduated in 2019 with a degree in Public Health Science. During her time off from school, she has been working with The Arc of Prince George’s County which helps individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. With them, she has been able to curate multiple enrichment programs for the community tailored to transitioning youth. She is currently in the process of applying to dental schools! Her hobbies include spending time with her family, trying out new cafes, and reading. Within the Research Associate program, she is the Critical Care Resuscitation Unit (CCRU) Satisfaction Survey point of contact and a former member of the membership committee. She has also presented an abstract at the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine conference right before the pandemic hit! In addition to this, she has participated in multiple retrospective studies during her time in RAP-EMCC.
CCRU Satisfaction Survey Point of Contact 2020 - 2022
B.S. in Public Health Science
University of Maryland, College Park '19
Currently: Medical Tester at Capital Diagnostics
Pre-Professional Track: DDS/DMD
Saman Tanveer is an alumnus at the University of Maryland in College Park. She graduated in 2019 with a degree in Public Health Science. During her time off from school, she has been working with The Arc of Prince George’s County which helps individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. With them, she has been able to curate multiple enrichment programs for the community tailored to transitioning youth. She is currently in the process of applying to dental schools! Her hobbies include spending time with her family, trying out new cafes, and reading. Within the Research Associate program, she is the Critical Care Resuscitation Unit (CCRU) Satisfaction Survey point of contact and a former member of the membership committee. She has also presented an abstract at the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine conference right before the pandemic hit! In addition to this, she has participated in multiple retrospective studies during her time in RAP-EMCC.
Laura Tiffany
Chief 2016 - 2021
B.S. in Biology: Physiology and Neurobiology
B.A. in Spanish Language, Culture, and Professional Contexts
University of Maryland, College Park '19
Currently: The George Washington University Joint Physician Assistant/MPH program '24
Laura has been a research associate and acting chief of RAP-EMCC since the program's inception in 2016. Through the Research Associate Program in Emergency Medicine and Critical Care, Laura has over 16 abstract and manuscript publications, including several first authorships. Currently, Laura is pursuing her PA/MPH at The George Washington University in Washington D.C, with a focus on Maternal and Child Health. Apart from RAP-EMCC, Laura worked as an Emergency Medical Technician after graduating from the University of Maryland in 2019. In her free time, Laura provides volunteer ESOL tutoring for native Spanish speakers and enjoys going hiking and camping.
Chief 2016 - 2021
B.S. in Biology: Physiology and Neurobiology
B.A. in Spanish Language, Culture, and Professional Contexts
University of Maryland, College Park '19
Currently: The George Washington University Joint Physician Assistant/MPH program '24
Laura has been a research associate and acting chief of RAP-EMCC since the program's inception in 2016. Through the Research Associate Program in Emergency Medicine and Critical Care, Laura has over 16 abstract and manuscript publications, including several first authorships. Currently, Laura is pursuing her PA/MPH at The George Washington University in Washington D.C, with a focus on Maternal and Child Health. Apart from RAP-EMCC, Laura worked as an Emergency Medical Technician after graduating from the University of Maryland in 2019. In her free time, Laura provides volunteer ESOL tutoring for native Spanish speakers and enjoys going hiking and camping.
Emilie Disviscour Berman
Associate Chief 2019 - 2021
B.S. Biology: Physiology and Neurobiology
University of Maryland, College Park '20
Currently: University of Maryland School of Medicine, M.D. Candidate, MS1
Emilie has been a member of RAP-EMCC since January 2019 and was the associate chief from November 2019 - February 2021. Though RAP-EMCC, Emilie has 9 abstract and manuscript publications, and was able to present How The Critical Care Resuscitation Unit Contributes to Critically Ill Transfer: A 5-Year Experience at the 50th Critical Care Congress. Emilie left RAP-EMCC in February 2021 to complete a through hike of the Appalachian Trail (from Georgia to Maine) prior to attending the University of Maryland School of Medicine in July 2021. In her free time, Emilie enjoys hiking and spending time with her family.
Associate Chief 2019 - 2021
B.S. Biology: Physiology and Neurobiology
University of Maryland, College Park '20
Currently: University of Maryland School of Medicine, M.D. Candidate, MS1
Emilie has been a member of RAP-EMCC since January 2019 and was the associate chief from November 2019 - February 2021. Though RAP-EMCC, Emilie has 9 abstract and manuscript publications, and was able to present How The Critical Care Resuscitation Unit Contributes to Critically Ill Transfer: A 5-Year Experience at the 50th Critical Care Congress. Emilie left RAP-EMCC in February 2021 to complete a through hike of the Appalachian Trail (from Georgia to Maine) prior to attending the University of Maryland School of Medicine in July 2021. In her free time, Emilie enjoys hiking and spending time with her family.
Grace Hollis
Group Leader 2020 - 2021
Associate Chief 2021 - 2022
Website Committee Member 2021 - 2022
B.S. in General Biology
Minor in Global Poverty
University of Maryland, College Park '22
Currently: The University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, M.D Candidate, MS1
Grace Hollis is interested in researching the genetic and social determinants of health in fields like obstetrics, orthopedics, and critical care, which she hopes to pursue alongside an MD degree in 2022. She began as a research associate in 2019, served as a group leader in 2020, and is currently an Associate Chief of the program. In her free time, Grace enjoys painting, gardening, fishing, cooking, and spending time with her family.
Group Leader 2020 - 2021
Associate Chief 2021 - 2022
Website Committee Member 2021 - 2022
B.S. in General Biology
Minor in Global Poverty
University of Maryland, College Park '22
Currently: The University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, M.D Candidate, MS1
Grace Hollis is interested in researching the genetic and social determinants of health in fields like obstetrics, orthopedics, and critical care, which she hopes to pursue alongside an MD degree in 2022. She began as a research associate in 2019, served as a group leader in 2020, and is currently an Associate Chief of the program. In her free time, Grace enjoys painting, gardening, fishing, cooking, and spending time with her family.
Matthew Fairchild
Associate Chief 2021 - 2021
Website Committee Member 2021 - 2021
Major: Biology: Physiology and Neurobiology
Currently: Student at University of Maryland, College Park (Expected Graduation Year 2023)
Matthew Fairchild is currently a junior at the University of Maryland, College Park. He is passionate about studying the intersection between social determinants of health and medical care and hopes to explore this interest by possibly pursuing an MD/MPH after his undergraduate studies. His time with the RAP-EMCC internship program began in January 2020 as a research associate, and his commitment to the program eventually resulted in being promoted to the programs' co-Associate Chief. He has loved meeting new people, staffing the hospital, and learning about clinical research throughout his time with RAP-EMCC, and is excited to take what he has learned from the program and translate them into new career and educational opportunities.
Associate Chief 2021 - 2021
Website Committee Member 2021 - 2021
Major: Biology: Physiology and Neurobiology
Currently: Student at University of Maryland, College Park (Expected Graduation Year 2023)
Matthew Fairchild is currently a junior at the University of Maryland, College Park. He is passionate about studying the intersection between social determinants of health and medical care and hopes to explore this interest by possibly pursuing an MD/MPH after his undergraduate studies. His time with the RAP-EMCC internship program began in January 2020 as a research associate, and his commitment to the program eventually resulted in being promoted to the programs' co-Associate Chief. He has loved meeting new people, staffing the hospital, and learning about clinical research throughout his time with RAP-EMCC, and is excited to take what he has learned from the program and translate them into new career and educational opportunities.
Richa Beher
Group Leader 2019 - 2022
Website Committee Member 2021 - 2022
B.S. in Biology: Cell Biology and Genetics
Minor: Statistics
University of Maryland, College Park '20
Currently: University of Maryland School of Medicine, M.D. Candidate, MS1
Richa is a recent graduate of the class of 2020 who is currently spending her bridge years before medical school as a post-baccalaureate fellow in cell biology at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Richa's research interests include wet lab work involving cell signaling and cancer immunology and clinical research involving the intersection of technology and healthcare as well as patient care management in emergency medicine. Richa joined RAP-EMCC in February 2019 and served as a Group shift leader and a website committee member. Through RAP-EMCC, Richa has gained experience in conducting prospective and retrospective research, performing data analyses, and producing manuscripts. Richa likes to stay active in her free time and enjoys going on backpacking, caving, and mountain biking trips with friends and family.
Group Leader 2019 - 2022
Website Committee Member 2021 - 2022
B.S. in Biology: Cell Biology and Genetics
Minor: Statistics
University of Maryland, College Park '20
Currently: University of Maryland School of Medicine, M.D. Candidate, MS1
Richa is a recent graduate of the class of 2020 who is currently spending her bridge years before medical school as a post-baccalaureate fellow in cell biology at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Richa's research interests include wet lab work involving cell signaling and cancer immunology and clinical research involving the intersection of technology and healthcare as well as patient care management in emergency medicine. Richa joined RAP-EMCC in February 2019 and served as a Group shift leader and a website committee member. Through RAP-EMCC, Richa has gained experience in conducting prospective and retrospective research, performing data analyses, and producing manuscripts. Richa likes to stay active in her free time and enjoys going on backpacking, caving, and mountain biking trips with friends and family.
Tima Mikdashi
Research Associate
B.S. in Bioengineering
Minor: Technology Entrepreneurship
University of Maryland, College Park '21
Pre-Professional Track: MD
Tima Mikdashi is one of the new research associates for the RAP-EMCC program and graduated Spring 2021 from the University of Maryland, College Park with a Bachelor of Science in Bioengineering. She is looking forward to contributing to projects with the team, developing her data analysis skills, and learning more about the world of emergency medicine.
Research Associate
B.S. in Bioengineering
Minor: Technology Entrepreneurship
University of Maryland, College Park '21
Pre-Professional Track: MD
Tima Mikdashi is one of the new research associates for the RAP-EMCC program and graduated Spring 2021 from the University of Maryland, College Park with a Bachelor of Science in Bioengineering. She is looking forward to contributing to projects with the team, developing her data analysis skills, and learning more about the world of emergency medicine.
Zain Alam
Membership Committee Member 2019 - 2022
B.S. in Kinesiology
University of Maryland, College Park '21
Pre-Professional Track: MD
Zain Alam is a recent graduate of the University of Maryland, College Park with a bachelor of science in Kinesiology. He is planning on applying to medical school after a gap year. He joined RAP-EMCC in the spring of 2019 and has been head of the membership committee since December 2020. Outside of research, he works as a medical scribe and volunteers as a tutor for elementary school students. During Zain's free time, he loves to play golf, hike, and travel.
Membership Committee Member 2019 - 2022
B.S. in Kinesiology
University of Maryland, College Park '21
Pre-Professional Track: MD
Zain Alam is a recent graduate of the University of Maryland, College Park with a bachelor of science in Kinesiology. He is planning on applying to medical school after a gap year. He joined RAP-EMCC in the spring of 2019 and has been head of the membership committee since December 2020. Outside of research, he works as a medical scribe and volunteers as a tutor for elementary school students. During Zain's free time, he loves to play golf, hike, and travel.
Chris Yum
Research Associate 2016 - 2021
Cognitive Function of Patients Undergoing Venovenous Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Point of Contact 2018 - 2021
B.A. in Biology
University of Maryland, Baltimore County '18
Pre-Professional Track: MD
Outside of the clinical research conducted through RAP-EMCC, I enjoy reading up on various topics including genetic engineering, stem cell research, and neuroscience. Other than hobbies and interests in academia, I enjoy volunteering at different events that support the underprivileged. Furthermore, I enjoy going to the gym, playing basketball, and fishing. In general, I love being active, but I also find delight in laid back activities.
Research Associate 2016 - 2021
Cognitive Function of Patients Undergoing Venovenous Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Point of Contact 2018 - 2021
B.A. in Biology
University of Maryland, Baltimore County '18
Pre-Professional Track: MD
Outside of the clinical research conducted through RAP-EMCC, I enjoy reading up on various topics including genetic engineering, stem cell research, and neuroscience. Other than hobbies and interests in academia, I enjoy volunteering at different events that support the underprivileged. Furthermore, I enjoy going to the gym, playing basketball, and fishing. In general, I love being active, but I also find delight in laid back activities.
Austin Widjaja
Research Associate
B.S. in Biology: Neurobiology and Physiology and Psychology
University of Maryland College Park '19
Pre-Professional Track: MD/PhD
Austin’s research interests include the fields of mental health, consciousness, therapeutic techniques, and interpersonal relationships. Through RAP-EMCC, Austin has received his first exposure to clinical research. Austin enjoys the patient interactions in the clinical in-hospital studies as well as learning more about meta-analyses. He also enjoys working on retrospective studies as well as learning to read and understand patient charts. Outside of research, Austin is a volunteer EMT in Montgomery County, MD. In his free time, Austin enjoys having debates with people, cooking, listening to music, discussing philosophical topics and going on walks with friends and his dog. Furthermore, Austin likes to keep up with the current ESPORTS news as well as spend time playing online games with his friends.
Research Associate
B.S. in Biology: Neurobiology and Physiology and Psychology
University of Maryland College Park '19
Pre-Professional Track: MD/PhD
Austin’s research interests include the fields of mental health, consciousness, therapeutic techniques, and interpersonal relationships. Through RAP-EMCC, Austin has received his first exposure to clinical research. Austin enjoys the patient interactions in the clinical in-hospital studies as well as learning more about meta-analyses. He also enjoys working on retrospective studies as well as learning to read and understand patient charts. Outside of research, Austin is a volunteer EMT in Montgomery County, MD. In his free time, Austin enjoys having debates with people, cooking, listening to music, discussing philosophical topics and going on walks with friends and his dog. Furthermore, Austin likes to keep up with the current ESPORTS news as well as spend time playing online games with his friends.
Gaurika Mester
Head of Membership Committee 2018 - 2020
Research Associate 2017 - 2020
B.S. Biology: Physiology and Neurobiology
Minor in Public Leadership
University of Maryland, College Park '20
Currently: University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, M.D. Candidate, MS1
Gaurika joined the program in January of 2017 and served as the head of the membership committee from November 2018 - June 2020. Though RAP-EMCC, Gaurika has also participated in a variety of retrospective research projects.
Head of Membership Committee 2018 - 2020
Research Associate 2017 - 2020
B.S. Biology: Physiology and Neurobiology
Minor in Public Leadership
University of Maryland, College Park '20
Currently: University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, M.D. Candidate, MS1
Gaurika joined the program in January of 2017 and served as the head of the membership committee from November 2018 - June 2020. Though RAP-EMCC, Gaurika has also participated in a variety of retrospective research projects.
Daniel Najafali
Head of Website Committee
Research Associate 2019 - 2021
B.S. in Bioengineering
University of Maryland, College Park '19
Currently: Carle Illinois College of Medicine, M.D. Candidate, MS1
Daniel Najafali, B.S is a recent bioengineering graduate from the A. James Clark School of Engineering at the University of Maryland, College Park. He will be attending Carle Illinois College of Medicine as part of the class of 2025. Daniel has been a research associate enrolling patients in prospective studies and working on retrospective studies. He hopes to contribute towards improving patient outcomes and improving the standard of care with his research. In his free time, Daniel enjoys cooking, hiking, and mentoring premedical students.
Head of Website Committee
Research Associate 2019 - 2021
B.S. in Bioengineering
University of Maryland, College Park '19
Currently: Carle Illinois College of Medicine, M.D. Candidate, MS1
Daniel Najafali, B.S is a recent bioengineering graduate from the A. James Clark School of Engineering at the University of Maryland, College Park. He will be attending Carle Illinois College of Medicine as part of the class of 2025. Daniel has been a research associate enrolling patients in prospective studies and working on retrospective studies. He hopes to contribute towards improving patient outcomes and improving the standard of care with his research. In his free time, Daniel enjoys cooking, hiking, and mentoring premedical students.
Megan Najafali
Research Associate 2021 - 2021
B.S. in Biology
Minor: Global Poverty
University of Maryland, College Park '16
M.H.S. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health ‘20
Pre-Professional Track: MD or DO
After graduating from the University of Maryland, College Park, in 2016, Megan spent a few years working as a scribe at an emergency department and as a medical assistant at a pediatric clinic before attending graduate school. To build on her passion for public health and medicine, she pursued her master's degree in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health.
Megan is currently working as a data analyst in healthcare AI, tutoring students in various academic subjects, and volunteering with different community-based organizations in Baltimore. As a research associate, she looks forward to contributing to critical care and emergency medicine research and further developing her research skills. In her free time, Megan enjoys reading, hiking, traveling, and spending time with family and friends.
Research Associate 2021 - 2021
B.S. in Biology
Minor: Global Poverty
University of Maryland, College Park '16
M.H.S. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health ‘20
Pre-Professional Track: MD or DO
After graduating from the University of Maryland, College Park, in 2016, Megan spent a few years working as a scribe at an emergency department and as a medical assistant at a pediatric clinic before attending graduate school. To build on her passion for public health and medicine, she pursued her master's degree in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health.
Megan is currently working as a data analyst in healthcare AI, tutoring students in various academic subjects, and volunteering with different community-based organizations in Baltimore. As a research associate, she looks forward to contributing to critical care and emergency medicine research and further developing her research skills. In her free time, Megan enjoys reading, hiking, traveling, and spending time with family and friends.
Hannah Frederick
Research Associate 2020 - 2021
Research Archives Head Writer 2021 - 2022
B.S. in Biology: Physiology and Neurobiology
B.S. in Psychology
University of Maryland College Park '21
Currently: University of Maryland, School of Medicine, M.D. Candidate MS1
Through the Research Associate Program in Emergency Medicine and Critical Care, Hannah has been involved with a team of undergraduate and medical students that collect data on blood pressure variability and hematoma expansion. Presently, the group has collected extensive clinical data, including all prescribed medications, for over 400 patients! They are currently in the process of submitting a paper on their results and will hopefully be published by next year. Hannah has also been involved in multiple retrospective studies during her time as a research associate.
During her free time, Hannah enjoys backpacking, skating, and photography. Over the summer, Hannah was able to go to the Grayson highlands and was able to backpack alongside wild ponies, bulls, and longhorns. Here is the link to Hannah's photography page that she has recently developed: https://hannahmaephotography.org/
Research Associate 2020 - 2021
Research Archives Head Writer 2021 - 2022
B.S. in Biology: Physiology and Neurobiology
B.S. in Psychology
University of Maryland College Park '21
Currently: University of Maryland, School of Medicine, M.D. Candidate MS1
Through the Research Associate Program in Emergency Medicine and Critical Care, Hannah has been involved with a team of undergraduate and medical students that collect data on blood pressure variability and hematoma expansion. Presently, the group has collected extensive clinical data, including all prescribed medications, for over 400 patients! They are currently in the process of submitting a paper on their results and will hopefully be published by next year. Hannah has also been involved in multiple retrospective studies during her time as a research associate.
During her free time, Hannah enjoys backpacking, skating, and photography. Over the summer, Hannah was able to go to the Grayson highlands and was able to backpack alongside wild ponies, bulls, and longhorns. Here is the link to Hannah's photography page that she has recently developed: https://hannahmaephotography.org/
Michael Sobalvarro
Research Associate
Major in English
Georgetown University
Pre-Professional Track: MD
Michael is a post-bacc student at the University of Maryland, College Park who previously interned in the US Senate and performed clinical translational research in neurocognitive disorders. He joined the RAP-EMCC to further his data and meta-analysis skills because during his time on capitol hill, he noted that the best policy is informed by solid research. He currently serves his community as a medical scribe at La Clinica Del Pueblo, which provides care to low-income immigrants in Washington D.C.. He plans to leverage his career in medicine to advocate for policies that will reduce health disparities in vulnerable communities. He is currently participating in a retrospective study regarding VV-ECMO and neurocognitive outcomes. In his free time, Michael enjoys runs with his dog and mining cryptocurrency.
Research Associate
Major in English
Georgetown University
Pre-Professional Track: MD
Michael is a post-bacc student at the University of Maryland, College Park who previously interned in the US Senate and performed clinical translational research in neurocognitive disorders. He joined the RAP-EMCC to further his data and meta-analysis skills because during his time on capitol hill, he noted that the best policy is informed by solid research. He currently serves his community as a medical scribe at La Clinica Del Pueblo, which provides care to low-income immigrants in Washington D.C.. He plans to leverage his career in medicine to advocate for policies that will reduce health disparities in vulnerable communities. He is currently participating in a retrospective study regarding VV-ECMO and neurocognitive outcomes. In his free time, Michael enjoys runs with his dog and mining cryptocurrency.
Muhammad Ullah
Research Associate
B.S. in Biology: Physiology and Neurobiology
University of Maryland, College Park ‘18
M.S. in Physiology and Biophysics
Georgetown University ’20
Pre-Professional Track: MD/MD-PhD
Through the Research Associate Program in Emergency Medicine and Critical Care, Muhammad has been involved in multiple retrospective and prospective studies. Apart from RAP-EMCC, Muhammad is a Research Associate at the George Washington University in the Katzen Cancer Research Center and was a Research Assistant in the Center for Functional and Molecular Imaging department at Georgetown University. Muhammad hopes to improve patient care through his research dedication. In his free time, Muhammad loves motorcycle riding, cooking, and traveling.
Research Associate
B.S. in Biology: Physiology and Neurobiology
University of Maryland, College Park ‘18
M.S. in Physiology and Biophysics
Georgetown University ’20
Pre-Professional Track: MD/MD-PhD
Through the Research Associate Program in Emergency Medicine and Critical Care, Muhammad has been involved in multiple retrospective and prospective studies. Apart from RAP-EMCC, Muhammad is a Research Associate at the George Washington University in the Katzen Cancer Research Center and was a Research Assistant in the Center for Functional and Molecular Imaging department at Georgetown University. Muhammad hopes to improve patient care through his research dedication. In his free time, Muhammad loves motorcycle riding, cooking, and traveling.
Ikram Afridi
Research Associate 2020 - 2021
B.A. in Biology
M.S. in Advanced Biomedical Sciences, George Mason University '22
Pre-Professional Track: MD
Ikram's research interests include emergency medicine and sleep medicine. In RAP-EMCC, he enjoys the various retrospective research projects along with the program’s hospital clinical research programs. Some of his hobbies include playing basketball, hiking and searching for the world’s best coffee shop.
Research Associate 2020 - 2021
B.A. in Biology
M.S. in Advanced Biomedical Sciences, George Mason University '22
Pre-Professional Track: MD
Ikram's research interests include emergency medicine and sleep medicine. In RAP-EMCC, he enjoys the various retrospective research projects along with the program’s hospital clinical research programs. Some of his hobbies include playing basketball, hiking and searching for the world’s best coffee shop.
Julianna Solomon
Research Associate 2020 - 2021
B.S. in Biology: Neurobiology and Physiology
Minor: Music Performance
University of Maryland, College Park '21
Currently: AmeriCorps City Year Volunteer in New York City
Julianna Solomon, BS graduated the University of Maryland, College Park this past May with a degree in Neurobiology and Physiology and a minor in Music Performance. She has served as a research associate with the program since early 2020 and has hopes of continuing her research involvements throughout medical school and in her career in pediatrician. As a musician, she is particularly interested in the effects of music therapy on patients with neurodegenerative diseases. This fall, she will work for the AmeriCorps organization City Year in supporting students at underserved schools in New York City while applying to medical school. In her free time, Julianna enjoys doing yoga, running, playing clarinet, and spending time with family and friends.
Research Associate 2020 - 2021
B.S. in Biology: Neurobiology and Physiology
Minor: Music Performance
University of Maryland, College Park '21
Currently: AmeriCorps City Year Volunteer in New York City
Julianna Solomon, BS graduated the University of Maryland, College Park this past May with a degree in Neurobiology and Physiology and a minor in Music Performance. She has served as a research associate with the program since early 2020 and has hopes of continuing her research involvements throughout medical school and in her career in pediatrician. As a musician, she is particularly interested in the effects of music therapy on patients with neurodegenerative diseases. This fall, she will work for the AmeriCorps organization City Year in supporting students at underserved schools in New York City while applying to medical school. In her free time, Julianna enjoys doing yoga, running, playing clarinet, and spending time with family and friends.
Jordan Mitchell
Group Leader 2017 - 2020
B.S. Biology: Physiology and Neurobiology
University of Maryland, College Park '18
Currently:
Meharry Medical College, Masters of Health Sciences (MHS) '21
After graduating from the University of Maryland, College Park, I took two years off to work full time as an EMT in Washington, D.C., as well as continuing to participate in the RAP-EMCC program as one of the group leads. In the Fall of 2020, I attended Meharry Medical College to pursue my Masters in Health Sciences, which I recently obtained in May 2021. Currently, I am in the process of applying to medical school, with the hope of starting in the Fall of 2022. During my free time, I love to cook & bake, as well as go hiking, or even watch a really good show on Netflix.
Group Leader 2017 - 2020
B.S. Biology: Physiology and Neurobiology
University of Maryland, College Park '18
Currently:
Meharry Medical College, Masters of Health Sciences (MHS) '21
After graduating from the University of Maryland, College Park, I took two years off to work full time as an EMT in Washington, D.C., as well as continuing to participate in the RAP-EMCC program as one of the group leads. In the Fall of 2020, I attended Meharry Medical College to pursue my Masters in Health Sciences, which I recently obtained in May 2021. Currently, I am in the process of applying to medical school, with the hope of starting in the Fall of 2022. During my free time, I love to cook & bake, as well as go hiking, or even watch a really good show on Netflix.
Paul Capobianco
Research Associate 2018 - 2020
B.S. in Psychology
University of Maryland, College Park '18
Currently: SUNY Upstate Medical University, M.D. Candidate, MS2
After graduating in the Winter of 2018 I spent a year and a half either scribing or working as an EMT, while continuing research with RAP-EMCC. I moved back to NY to start medical school in 2020 at SUNY Upstate Medical University and will begin MS2 in August 2021. This summer before MS2, I am working on a few orthopedic research projects, shadowing in the OR, and spending time in the sun whenever I can. My hobbies are running, reading, intramural sports, and walking my dog.
Research Associate 2018 - 2020
B.S. in Psychology
University of Maryland, College Park '18
Currently: SUNY Upstate Medical University, M.D. Candidate, MS2
After graduating in the Winter of 2018 I spent a year and a half either scribing or working as an EMT, while continuing research with RAP-EMCC. I moved back to NY to start medical school in 2020 at SUNY Upstate Medical University and will begin MS2 in August 2021. This summer before MS2, I am working on a few orthopedic research projects, shadowing in the OR, and spending time in the sun whenever I can. My hobbies are running, reading, intramural sports, and walking my dog.
Mayga Sapru
Research Associate 2019 - 2020
B.S. in Psychology
University of Maryland, College Park '20
Currently: Johns Hopkins University, M.S. in Biotechnology '22
After graduating from the University of Maryland, College Park, I spent the year serving as an AmeriCorps member at Boys Hope Girls Hope Baltimore, a nonprofit organization that seeks to provide a stable environment where middle and high school students from disadvantaged backgrounds can come to excel academically, physically, and emotionally. Starting this fall, I will be attending Johns Hopkins University where I will be working towards my M.S. in Biotechnology. In my free time, I enjoy playing kickball, hiking, and performing at weddings.
Research Associate 2019 - 2020
B.S. in Psychology
University of Maryland, College Park '20
Currently: Johns Hopkins University, M.S. in Biotechnology '22
After graduating from the University of Maryland, College Park, I spent the year serving as an AmeriCorps member at Boys Hope Girls Hope Baltimore, a nonprofit organization that seeks to provide a stable environment where middle and high school students from disadvantaged backgrounds can come to excel academically, physically, and emotionally. Starting this fall, I will be attending Johns Hopkins University where I will be working towards my M.S. in Biotechnology. In my free time, I enjoy playing kickball, hiking, and performing at weddings.
Benchaa Boualam
Research Associate 2016 - 2018
B.S. in Biology: Physiology and Neurobiology
University of Maryland, College Park '17
M.S. in Biotechnology
John Hopkins University '18'
Currently: Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine, M.D. Candidate, MS2
I am from Silver Spring, MD, and I am currently beginning M2 as well as working on retrospective and prospective projects involved with distal radius fractures and carpal tunnel syndrome. I joined RAP-EMCC a few years ago when it was still in its infancy, and I am overjoyed with the success and involvement it has had in recent years. During this time, I completed an NIH research fellowship focusing on 3D printing bone and cartilage models. After graduating from the University of Maryland, College Park, I took a year off working as an Emergency Department scribe then went on to complete my M.S. at Hopkins. I am fluent in Spanish, and my hobbies include traveling, running, and playing soccer.
Research Associate 2016 - 2018
B.S. in Biology: Physiology and Neurobiology
University of Maryland, College Park '17
M.S. in Biotechnology
John Hopkins University '18'
Currently: Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine, M.D. Candidate, MS2
I am from Silver Spring, MD, and I am currently beginning M2 as well as working on retrospective and prospective projects involved with distal radius fractures and carpal tunnel syndrome. I joined RAP-EMCC a few years ago when it was still in its infancy, and I am overjoyed with the success and involvement it has had in recent years. During this time, I completed an NIH research fellowship focusing on 3D printing bone and cartilage models. After graduating from the University of Maryland, College Park, I took a year off working as an Emergency Department scribe then went on to complete my M.S. at Hopkins. I am fluent in Spanish, and my hobbies include traveling, running, and playing soccer.
Jamie Palmer
Research Associate 2016 - 2018
B.A. in Finance
University of Maryland College Park '18
Currently: University of Maryland School of Medicine, M.D. Candidate, MS3
After graduating from the University of Maryland, College Park in 2018 with a degree in Finance, I took a year off working with Dr. Mark Brody in South Florida, who specializes in Alzheimer’s disease clinical research. I started at the University of Maryland School of Medicine in 2019, and am currently in my 3rd year. I have continued to work with Dr. Tran on Critical Care and Emergency Medicine research, as well as some other projects with the Ophthalmology department. My hobbies include hiking, photography and tennis.
Research Associate 2016 - 2018
B.A. in Finance
University of Maryland College Park '18
Currently: University of Maryland School of Medicine, M.D. Candidate, MS3
After graduating from the University of Maryland, College Park in 2018 with a degree in Finance, I took a year off working with Dr. Mark Brody in South Florida, who specializes in Alzheimer’s disease clinical research. I started at the University of Maryland School of Medicine in 2019, and am currently in my 3rd year. I have continued to work with Dr. Tran on Critical Care and Emergency Medicine research, as well as some other projects with the Ophthalmology department. My hobbies include hiking, photography and tennis.
Tucker Lurie
Research Associate 2016 - 2017
B.S. in Biology
University of Maryland, College Park '16
M.D. University of Maryland School of Medicine '21
Currently: Emergency Medicine Resident at WellSpan York Hospital
Tucker Lurie joined the research associate program in 2016 and matriculated into the University of Maryland School of Medicine in 2017. Since joining the program, Tucker Lurie has actively been involved in many emergency medicine retrospective studies, even while completing his M.D. Tucker was also awarded the Certificate for Outstanding Achievement in Research in the University of Maryland School of Medicine Class of 2021. Currently, Tucker is completing his emergency medicine residency at WellSpan York Hospital in York, Pennsylvania. In his free time, Tucker enjoys spending time with his fiancee as well as going to the beach.
Research Associate 2016 - 2017
B.S. in Biology
University of Maryland, College Park '16
M.D. University of Maryland School of Medicine '21
Currently: Emergency Medicine Resident at WellSpan York Hospital
Tucker Lurie joined the research associate program in 2016 and matriculated into the University of Maryland School of Medicine in 2017. Since joining the program, Tucker Lurie has actively been involved in many emergency medicine retrospective studies, even while completing his M.D. Tucker was also awarded the Certificate for Outstanding Achievement in Research in the University of Maryland School of Medicine Class of 2021. Currently, Tucker is completing his emergency medicine residency at WellSpan York Hospital in York, Pennsylvania. In his free time, Tucker enjoys spending time with his fiancee as well as going to the beach.
Norhan Abdalla
Membership Committee Member 2020 - 2021
Research Associate 2019 - 2021
B.S. in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, and Bioinformatics
Towson University '20
Currently: Manufacturing Associate at Emergent BioSolutions
Norhan joined the research associate program in 2019, and was able to serve as a member of our membership committee as well as be involved with a variety of retrospective studies. Currently, Norhan works as a Manufacturing Associate II at Emergent BioSolutions in Gaithersburg, Maryland. In her free time, Norhan enjoys spending time with her friends and family.
Membership Committee Member 2020 - 2021
Research Associate 2019 - 2021
B.S. in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, and Bioinformatics
Towson University '20
Currently: Manufacturing Associate at Emergent BioSolutions
Norhan joined the research associate program in 2019, and was able to serve as a member of our membership committee as well as be involved with a variety of retrospective studies. Currently, Norhan works as a Manufacturing Associate II at Emergent BioSolutions in Gaithersburg, Maryland. In her free time, Norhan enjoys spending time with her friends and family.
Safura Tanveer
Research Associate 2018 - 2021
Patient Centered Sedation Outcomes in Mechanically Ventilated Trauma Patients Point of Contact 2019 - 2021
B.S. in Public Health Science
Minor in Entrepreneurship Technology
University of Maryland College Park '17
Currently: Physician's Associate Program at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore '23
Research Associate 2018 - 2021
Patient Centered Sedation Outcomes in Mechanically Ventilated Trauma Patients Point of Contact 2019 - 2021
B.S. in Public Health Science
Minor in Entrepreneurship Technology
University of Maryland College Park '17
Currently: Physician's Associate Program at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore '23
Bhakti Panchal
Research Associate 2019 - 2021
B.S. in Biology: Physiology and Neurobiology
University of Maryland College Park '20
Currently: University of Maryland School of Medicine, M.D. Candidate, MS1
Research Associate 2019 - 2021
B.S. in Biology: Physiology and Neurobiology
University of Maryland College Park '20
Currently: University of Maryland School of Medicine, M.D. Candidate, MS1
Kim Vuong
Research Associate 2019 - 2021
B.S. in Biological Sciences
Minor in Sociology
University of Maryland, Baltimore County '20
Research Associate 2019 - 2021
B.S. in Biological Sciences
Minor in Sociology
University of Maryland, Baltimore County '20
Tiffany Cao
Research Associate 2019 - 2021
B.S. in Bioengineering and Biomedical Engineering
University of Maryland College Park '20
Currently: University of Maryland School of Medicine, M.D. Candidate, MS1
Research Associate 2019 - 2021
B.S. in Bioengineering and Biomedical Engineering
University of Maryland College Park '20
Currently: University of Maryland School of Medicine, M.D. Candidate, MS1
Leenah Zia Afridi
Research Associate 2019 - 2021
M.D. Khyber Medical College, Pakistan '18
Currently: Preparing for her United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) to become certified as a physician in the United States
Research Associate 2019 - 2021
M.D. Khyber Medical College, Pakistan '18
Currently: Preparing for her United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) to become certified as a physician in the United States
Noorvir Kaur
Research Associate 2020 - 2021
B.S. in Biology: General Biology
University of Maryland College Park '20
Currently: Drexel University College of Medicine, M.D. Candidate, MS1
Research Associate 2020 - 2021
B.S. in Biology: General Biology
University of Maryland College Park '20
Currently: Drexel University College of Medicine, M.D. Candidate, MS1
Diego Giraldo
Research Associate 2016 - 2020
B.S. in Biology
University of Maryland College Park '19
Currently: University of Maryland School of Medicine, M.D. Candidate, MS2
Research Associate 2016 - 2020
B.S. in Biology
University of Maryland College Park '19
Currently: University of Maryland School of Medicine, M.D. Candidate, MS2
Tim Traynor
Research Associate 2016 - 2020
CCRU Satisfaction Survey Point of Contact 2016 - 2020
B.S. in Biology: Physiology and Neurobiology
University of Maryland College Park '19
Currently: University of Maryland School of Medicine, M.D. Candidate, MS2
Research Associate 2016 - 2020
CCRU Satisfaction Survey Point of Contact 2016 - 2020
B.S. in Biology: Physiology and Neurobiology
University of Maryland College Park '19
Currently: University of Maryland School of Medicine, M.D. Candidate, MS2
Allison Karwoski
Research Associate 2018 - 2020
B.S. in Biology: Physiology and Neurobiology
B.A in French Studies
University of Maryland College Park '19
Currently: University of Maryland School of Medicine, M.D. Candidate, MS1
Research Associate 2018 - 2020
B.S. in Biology: Physiology and Neurobiology
B.A in French Studies
University of Maryland College Park '19
Currently: University of Maryland School of Medicine, M.D. Candidate, MS1
Matthew Jackson
Research Associate 2018 - 2020
Group Leader 2018 - 2020
B.S. in Biochemistry
University of Maryland College Park '19
Currently: University of Maryland School of Medicine, M.D. Candidate, MS2
Research Associate 2018 - 2020
Group Leader 2018 - 2020
B.S. in Biochemistry
University of Maryland College Park '19
Currently: University of Maryland School of Medicine, M.D. Candidate, MS2
Madison McGann
Research Associate 2019 - 2020
B.S. in Psychology
University of Maryland College Park '19
Currently: University of Maryland School of Medicine, M.D. Candidate, MS2
Research Associate 2019 - 2020
B.S. in Psychology
University of Maryland College Park '19
Currently: University of Maryland School of Medicine, M.D. Candidate, MS2
Ali Waseem
Research Associate 2016 - 2019
Associate Chief 2016 - 2019
B.S. in Biology: Physiology and Neurobiology
University of Maryland College Park '19
Currently: Emergency Medical Technician with Global Response Management
Research Associate 2016 - 2019
Associate Chief 2016 - 2019
B.S. in Biology: Physiology and Neurobiology
University of Maryland College Park '19
Currently: Emergency Medical Technician with Global Response Management
Isabella Swafford
Research Associate 2016 - 2018
B.S. in Biology: Physiology and Neurobiology
University of Maryland College Park '18
Currently: Research Assistant at The Henry M Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine
Research Associate 2016 - 2018
B.S. in Biology: Physiology and Neurobiology
University of Maryland College Park '18
Currently: Research Assistant at The Henry M Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine
Sean Naimi
Research Associate 2016 - 2018
B.S. in Biology
University of Maryland College Park
Research Associate 2016 - 2018
B.S. in Biology
University of Maryland College Park
Jackson Barr
Research Associate 2017 - 2018
B.A. in Biology
Bard College '17
Currently: Clinical Research Assistant, University of Maryland School of Medicine
Research Associate 2017 - 2018
B.A. in Biology
Bard College '17
Currently: Clinical Research Assistant, University of Maryland School of Medicine