Meet the 2026 STEMNetX Fellowship Cohort

  • West Chester University

    West Chester, PA

    Angel Flowers is a Physics and Engineering student at West Chester University whose work bridges computational modeling and experimental physics. As a research assistant in the Physics and Engineering Department, he has conducted density functional theory (DFT) studies on rare-earth atom–doped gold nanoclusters, analyzing their structural stability and magnetic properties. He has also worked in the Optics Lab, performing laser alignment, interferometry, and beam manipulation experiments to support hands-on optical research. Angel has presented his research at regional and university conferences, including the APS Mid-Atlantic Section Meeting and multiple undergraduate research symposia. Beyond the lab, he serves as a Student Ambassador and STEMbassador, leading outreach efforts and engaging prospective students in STEM pathways. He is also an NSF S-STEM Scholar. Through his research, leadership, and mentorship experience, Angel is committed to advancing inclusive excellence in STEM and contributing to collaborative scientific communities that expand access, representation, and innovation.

  • Washington and Jefferson College

    Washington, PA

    My name is Abrianna Hosley, and I am a first-year student at Washington & Jefferson College, majoring in Physics and minoring in English. I am passionate about books, science, nature, space, swimming, and music. While my strengths lie in science and mathematics, I am always eager to take on new challenges across a variety of disciplines. My love for science began while growing up on our family farm.  For as long as I can remember, I hiked, biked, fished, and explored the trails, meadows, fields and forest.   Being from a small town taught me the value of community and helped me develop a strong work ethic. I plan to pursue graduate studies in physics and contribute to meaningful research that advances the scientific community. My hobbies include playing violin, studying classical composition, playing chess, swimming (I have been a competitive swimmer for 14 years), and anything that involves being outdoors. 

  • Stevens Institute of Technology

    Hoboken, NJ

    Hi, I'm Arye Miranda (they/them)!I am an undergraduate researcher pursuing a major in Mechanical Engineering with a minor in Physics at Stevens Institute of Technology, fascinated by smaller scale phenomena and mechanical design. In high school, I became deeply interested in quantum technology and found myself reading research papers. Because of this, I applied to college in hopes of pursuing research to develop sensors leveraging quantum mechanical properties.  I've found passion and community in research. Initially I had never considered a PhD as I was never exposed to what it entailed, but I now hope to pursue one after being encouraged by professors and fascinated with experimental research. StemNetX offered a specific focus in Quantum Technology often not seen in other fellowships that I hope to enrichen my passion through. Since my freshman year, I have been involved in a lab that aims to study unique quantum properties in 2D materials and its application in nanoscale devices. My current work involves TMD material synthesis and graphene based Extraordinary Magnetoresistance (EMR) for applications in ultrasensitive rotation sensors. However, in the future, I would like to develop my own sensors with a deep interest in flexible nanoscale electromechanical sensors (NEMs).

  • University of Houston

    Houston, TX

    Hello! My name is Ashley Kim, and I am originally from Dallas, Texas. I am currently a junior at the University of Houston majoring in Honors Biomedical Sciences with a minor in Medicine & Society. I work as an undergraduate research assistant at the Advanced Physiological Optics Laboratory in the University of Houston College of Optometry, where I assist with projects involving wavefront sensing and the study of higher order aberrations in the human eye. I am also very involved in several on campus organizations and truly enjoy collaborating and building meaningful connections with others. Beyond academics, I am passionate about service, leadership, and the arts. I have been playing the piano for over 16 years now and love exploring and performing all genres of music. Some fun facts about me are that I am a third degree black belt in taekwondo, and my favorite animals are Morelet’s tree frogs!

  • Hofstra University

    New York, New York

    Hi! My name is Chris, and I’m from Queens, New York. I’m currently a Mechanical Engineering major at Hofstra University, and I’m excited to be part of the STEMNetX 2026 Fellowship. I’ve always been drawn to figuring out how things work and how innovation can be achieved, which has led me to my interest in engineering, particularly in the aerospace, renewable energy, and mechatronics industries. Outside of school, I enjoy building with LEGOs, talking about cars, and playing basketball. Through this fellowship, I hope to deepen my understanding of the STEM industry and explore how research and innovation take shape in real-world settings. I’m looking forward to gaining hands-on exposure through lab tours, building technical skills such as programming, and learning from professionals working across different STEM fields. Most importantly, I’m excited to connect with other students who share a passion for engineering and discovery. I hope to grow both technically and professionally while contributing my curiosity, work ethic, and enthusiasm for learning.

  • Stevens Institute of Technology

    Hoboken, NJ

    Emily Lossman is studying Naval Engineering at Stevens Institute of Technology in Hoboken, NJ, where she also intends to achieve an M.E. in Ocean Engineering. Emily has been working on marine energy projects on campus since her first year at Stevens and will continue to contribute to renewable energy projects and sustainable development in the coming years.

    On campus, Emily is a founding member of the 2025 Promoting Electric Promotion winning team Stevens Electric Boatworks and is the manager of its Research & Development sub team. She is also leading Stevens’ 2026 Marine Energy Collegiate Competition team, AquaEmpower, whose project is based on her design for the 2025 PSEG Undergraduate Research Scholars for Environmental Justice summer fellowship. The team is partnering with the clubs Habitat for Humanity and Service, Activism, Volunteering, and Engineering (SAVE) to further contribute and bring awareness to urgent matters of sustainable development and renewable energy in engineering.

    As a woman living with disability, Emily works to ensure that her designs are accessible to all intended users. She has a personal interest in biomedical engineering, both outside of and in relation to naval engineering, which inspired her to apply for the STEMNetX Fellowship for its Biotechnology focus.

  • University of Mary Washington

    Fredericksburg, VA

    I am a second-year student at the University of Mary Washinton majoring in Applied Physics and Biomedical Sciences, with a strong interest in experimental research and problem solving. I am currently doing research in the material science field, looking to further the questions I have.  Beyond my coursework I am an active member of my schools Society of Physics Students chapter, even attending CU*IP in the previous year. I also participate in the WeSTEM program at my school – a volunteer-based community outreach program to help show more kids more science.  When I am not doing science, you can also find me on the Rugby pitch, a sport that has taught me how to work as a team and more discipline than you can imagine.  Through the STEMNetX Fellowship I aim to grow my skills as a scientist and researcher. I am hopeful to expand my skill set, connect with mentors, and learn new types of techniques and tools that can help grow my goals and ambitions as a student.  

  • Stevens Institute of Technology

    Hoboken, NJ

    My name is Jennifer Salto, and I am a mechanical engineering student at Stevens Institute of Technology in Jersey City, New Jersey. As a first-generation college student, I carry a deep sense of purpose and gratitude in my academic journey, driven by a lifelong passion for space exploration. My curiosity began at the age of seven after watching the animated series The Zula Patrol, where a group of aliens explored the galaxy and sparked my imagination about the universe beyond Earth. From that moment, I eagerly sought opportunities to learn more by reading articles, watching videos, and asking questions about how space missions become reality. That early curiosity grew into a commitment to engineering, where I strive to work diligently, remain resilient through challenges, and continuously improve as a student. I recognize that this path is demanding, yet I approach each obstacle with determination and humility, supported by the encouragement of my faith, my family, and mentors who have guided me along the way. I believe the STEMNetX Fellowship Program in 2026 represents an opportunity not only for growth, mentorship, and exploration, but to transform my childhood curiosity into meaningful contributions toward the future of space exploration.

  • Penn State Beaver

    Beaver County, PA

    My name is Ridhvik Rajashekar, and I am a sophomore mechanical engineering student at Penn State Beaver. I have a strong interest in mechanical design, prototyping, and problem solving. My engineering journey began in middle school, where I led my VEX Robotics team to the National level competition. The experience ignited my interest in the process of designing complex systems. I am currently strengthening my understanding of engineering fundamentals through coursework in Statics, Dynamics, Thermodynamics, and Mechanics of Materials, while also refining my CAD skills using SolidWorks and Fusion360 through personal projects that test them. Outside of my engineering career, I have developed strong leadership and communication skills through collaborative environments, including my experience as a participant in Pennsylvania Free Enterprise Week, a national business leadership program. I am extremely excited to join the STEMNetX Fellowhip for Space Engineering, and I look forward to bridging the gap between the classroom and the industry. 

  • East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania

    East Stroudsburg, PA

    Stacy Melvin is an Environmental Science student at East Stroudsburg University, pursuing a minor in Business Management and a certificate in Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Her work centers on conservation, energy policy, and urban greenspace, with a strong focus on community-driven sustainability solutions. She currently serves as Vice Chair of the Easton Environmental Advisory Council (EAC), where she chairs both the Education and Outreach Committee and the DarkSky Initiative Committee. In these roles, she collaborates on local initiatives related to climate action, responsible outdoor lighting, waste reduction, conservation, and greenspace enhancement. Stacy works closely with municipal staff, nonprofit partners, and residents to advance practical environmental policies that balance ecological protection with economic vitality and community needs. Her academic interests include energy systems, environmental data analysis, equitable infrastructure planning, and the role of accessible green space in strengthening climate resilience. She is particularly interested in how data-informed decision-making can expand access to clean energy resources and improve environmental equity. Through both her coursework and public service, Stacy is committed to bridging science, policy, and community engagement. She is excited to join the STEMNetX Fellowship to deepen her understanding of STEM innovation and contribute to collaborative solutions that support sustainable, forward-thinking communities.

  • University of Pittsburgh

    Pittsburgh, PA

    My name is Tyrina Ragsdale, I am a rising senior Mechanical Engineering Major and I am passionate about pursuing a career in Aerospace Engineering. I like sports, crafts, and fashion. I am currently apart of a family-owned STEM educational outreach company that actively outreaches and engages with children ages K-12 through live science demonstrations. I hope to further community outreach and engagement after graduation through sharing my experiences with more children I encounter throughout continuing to work within my family's company. I am excited to be apart of the Summer 2026 Cohort of the STEMNETX fellowship program. 

  • Michigan Technological University

    Houghton, MI

    William Ingels is a Computer Engineering student at Michigan Technological University pursuing a minor in Cybersecurity. As an S-STEM Scholar, he is committed to academic excellence and advancing technologies that strengthen critical infrastructure and national resilience. William contributes to faculty-mentored research examining how water distribution systems can enhance electric power grid stability, working at the intersection of energy systems, cybersecurity, and infrastructure protection. His interests include energy innovation, robotics, and the integration of secure computing within complex engineered systems. In high school, William served as Lead Autonomous Programmer and Drive Team member in the FIRST Robotics Competition, helping lead his team to the World Championship event each year of his participation. He earned a District Dean’s List Award and advanced to compete at the state level, recognizing his technical leadership and commitment to STEM outreach. A member of SAE, SME, and IEEE, William aspires to design secure, intelligent systems that advance technological innovation while safeguarding the communities that depend on them.

  • Washington and Jefferson College

    Washington, PA

    My name is Grace Milko, and I am a freshman at Washington and Jefferson College interested in the sciences, particularly environmental engineering. I want to use my skills and abilities to improve the world around me and serve a greater purpose, such as environmental conservation. I think research into sustainable resources is an area where more emphasis should be placed, so I hope to facilitate that change during the course of my career. A driving interest I had in this fellowship was the topic of biotechnology, which we will be studying. I hope the exposure to this topic will either reinforce my interest in a career in environmental engineering or introduce me to a separate interest. I also hope to gain experience and knowledge from this opportunity that will help me move seamlessly into my professional career after college. I’m excited for this new opportunity and look forward to learning new things and meeting new people that will propel me towards success.

  • University of North Georgia

    Gainesville, GA

    Helene Nilsson is a second-year undergraduate student at the University of North Georgia pursuing a degree in        Environmental & Spatial Analysis. During her time as a student, Helene has enjoyed research in GIS, geospatial statistics, remote sensing, and the ways in which those disciplines can be implemented into the fields of public health, epidemiology, environmental science, and history. Helene is an active member of the University of North Georgia's Geospatial Alliance Club and enjoys collaborating with faculty and fellow students in event planning and research. Following graduation, Helene hopes to pursue a Master's degree in Public Health or Geography. Helene is incredibly grateful to be accepted into the 2026 STEMNetX Fellowship Program and is eager to join this year's cohort and explore the amazing opportunities granted to her.

  • Coastal Carolina University

    Conway, SC

    I am currently a sophomore at Coastal Carolina University(CCU) pursuing a bachelor's in Engineering Science(Electrical) with a minor in Applied Mathematics. My two main academic interests are Aerospace engineering (More on the space side) and Biomedical Engineering. During my time I've been at CCU, I've been involved in the CCU Space Program working on a Cubesat, taking the role of the Electrical Power Systems (EPS) Lead, and have gotten involved in the Space Club as well as the Rock Climbing Club. Thanks to my internship with the CCU Space Program, I've been able to travel to different places around the US like Salt Lake City in Utah and Kennedy Space Center in Florida, and I'm very excited to be able to travel for STEMNetX and learn more about Biotechnology, Space Engineering and Quantum Technology! I know this opportunity will help my skills as an engineer and allow me to talk to likeminded people who are interested in developing all skills revolving around STEM.