Mentors/Guest Speakers
Dr. Michael McCraken
Dr. Cory Christenson
McKenzie Speese
Dr. Rama Bala
Dr. Aditi Gurkar
Dr. Kathleen Morgan Kehr
Professor of Physics; Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, Faculty Support; Coordinator of Engineering Dual-degree Program @ Washington & Jefferson College
Dr. McCracken’s Research is in the field of nuclear particle physics, specifically the photoproduction of mesons off of the nucleon. He studies the interaction between quarks and gluons, the fundamental components of more familiar systems such as protons, neutrons, and atomic nuclei.
Dr. McCraken will facilitate a five-day Python coding course designed to provide the fellows with practical, hands-on experience in Python programming.
Associate Professor, Chair of Physics, Director of FYS @ Washington & Jefferson College
Dr. Christensen’s research interests are in organic polymers and dyes for optics-based technologies, such as solar cells, holography, and data storage, but he enjoys investigating a broad range of liberal arts topics that benefit student learning, such as self-driving cars, the history of energy, and how to incorporate a multicultural history of physics into classes
Dr. Christenson will facilitate a workshop on Quantum Information Science, aimed at providing participants with a foundational understanding of the field and its emerging applications.
Coordinator for Professional Experience Development @ Washington & Jefferson College@ Washington & Jefferson College
Ms. McKenzee is dedicated to facilitating pathways that connect students with meaningful academic and professional opportunities.
Ms. McKenzee and the Center for Professional Pathways will facilitate a Career Development Workshop designed to assist fellows in identifying their interests, developing key competencies, and advancing toward their long-term professional goals.
CEO of Chance of Change Lives (CCL-US) , Executive Director of STEMnetX Initiative and Professor @ University of Pittsburgh
Dr. Bala is a distinguished physics professor and researcher. Teaching at major universities across the Northeast, she has always had a passion for helping students find experiential learning opportunities in their respective fields while continuing to educate and mentor
Dr. Bala, in collaboration with Dr. Gurkar, will facilitate the Biotechnology workshop for participants
Assistant Professor, Department of Medicine, Division of Geriatric Medicine, Aging Institute @ University of Pittsburgh
Dr. Gurkar’s interest is in understanding the biology of aging and age-related diseases. Her research focuses on identifying the signaling mechanisms that drive aging in response to endogenous DNA damage.
Dr. Gurkar, in collaboration with Dr. Bala, will facilitate the Biotechnology workshop for participants
Director in Quantitative Systems, Pharmacology (QSP) Business Solutions
In her role, Kathleen collaborates with interdisciplinary teams of software engineers, mathematicians, and scientists across various therapeutic areas, leading a talented team that bridges computational science with practical pharmaceutical applications while fostering a culture of continuous learning and innovation
Dr. Kehr, in collaboration with Dr. Bala and Dr. Gurkar will facilitate the Biotechnology workshop for participants
Dr. Erin Singh
Senior Clinical Trial Liaison at ICON plc
Dr. Erin Singh holds a Ph.D. in Chemistry and a B.S. in Bioengineering, both from the University of California, San Diego. With over a decade of clinical research experience, she currently serves as a Senior Clinical Trial Liaison at ICON plc, a leading Contract Research Organization (CRO). In this role, Dr. Singh leads site engagement strategies to drive participant recruitment across diverse therapeutic areas.
A dedicated advocate for health equity, Dr. Singh has contributed extensively to the development and implementation of end-to-end Diversity in Clinical Trials solutions. Her work focuses on advancing inclusive research practices and ensuring trial data accurately reflects diverse populations.
Beyond her professional expertise, Dr. Singh is deeply committed to community service. She has played an instrumental role in the Junior League of Pittsburgh’s efforts to combat food insecurity in the city’s East End. A trailblazer in leadership, she served four years on the organization’s board and was elected President for its 100th anniversary term (2022–2023), becoming the League’s first Asian American President.
Dr. Singh will facilitate a Biotechnology and Health Science Virtual Career Panel workshop for participants