The Chicago Women in STEM Initiative is led by a diverse team of dedicated graduate students, postdoctoral and professional volunteers, as well as liaisons from Chicago-area academic institutions and organizations who are committed to promoting equity and diversity in the local STEM community and beyond.
Sophie Hu, President, PhD Student, Northwestern University
Sophie Hu is a second-year doctoral student in the Biomedical Sciences at Northwestern University, where she investigates the epigenetic molecular mechanisms driving acute myeloid leukemia. Her research bridges cancer biology, immunology, and stem cell biology to uncover how chromatin dynamics and epigenetic regulators contribute to leukemogenesis and therapeutic resistance. By integrating sequencing techniques with mouse models, she aims to identify novel vulnerabilities in AML. Beyond the lab, Sophie is a committed advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion in STEM. She will serve as President of the Chicago Women in STEM Initiative, leading programming to support and empower women and underrepresented groups in science. She also serves as Communications Director for Northwestern’s Cancer Biology Cluster, where she oversees internal communications and helps build a connected, collaborative research community. Sophie also serves as a Communications Lead for Nucleate Chicago, a student-led biotech entrepreneurship organization, reflecting her strong interest in industry and translational science. She aspires to pursue a career at the interface of science and people; ultimately aiming for a role such as a project manager, then chief scientific officer, where she can help drive innovative therapies from bench to bedside.
Madeline Mills, Treasurer, PhD Candidate, Northwestern University
Madeline is a PhD student in chemical engineering at Northwestern University. She earned her bachelor’s in chemical engineering from Purdue University prior to attending Northwestern. Her research interests include developing novel protein structures for use in targeted drug delivery applications. At Northwestern, she also serves as Secretary of the Anti-Racism, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (ARDEI) committee within the Chemical and Biological Engineering Department. She joined the Chicago Women in STEM initiative board in the fall of 2024. In her free time, she enjoys running, playing tennis, reading, and painting.
Junqin Heidi Bai, Outreach Chair, Research Assistant Professor, Northwestern University
Heidi Junqin Bai, Ph.D, is a Research Assistant Professor in the Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, where she leads translational immunology research focused on chronic airway diseases. Her work integrates advanced computational and experimental approaches to investigate type 2 inflammation, immune cell activation, and microbiome in the human nasal cavity, with an emphasis on identifying biomarkers of disease progression and developing patient-stratification strategies for preclinical trials. By combining bulk and scRNA sequencing, high-dimensional immunoprofiling, and machine learning, her research uncovers the molecular and cellular mechanisms driving Chronic Rhinosinusitis and Eosinophilic Esophagitis. Beyond her research, Heidi is a dedicated advocate for mentorship, collaboration, and the advancement of women and underrepresented groups in STEM. As Outreach Chair, she is eager to organize scientific community engagement, foster research connections, and support the professional development of trainees. She is also actively involved in teaching and mentoring, guiding students and early-career scientists in both experimental and computational immunology. Her long-term goal is to establish an independent translational immunology program that bridges discovery and clinical application while cultivating a supportive, inclusive research environment.
Manju Sivasankar, IWD Committee Chair, PhD Candidate, Northwestern University
Manju Sivasankar is a third-year PhD student in Biomedical Engineering at Northwestern University. She earned her Honors Bachelor’s in Biomedical Engineering with a minor in French from the University of Delaware before joining graduate school. Her research explores the neural mechanisms of motor deficits following a stroke. She implements robotics, motion capture, and new measurement tools to understand the neurological and physiological mechanisms following a stroke. She joined the Chicago Women in STEM Initiative in the summer of 2024 as an IWD committee member and is excited to continue networking with and exploring mentorship opportunities with women in the STEM fields.
Yi-Ling Cheng, IWD Fundraising Chair, PhD Candidate, University of Illinois Chicago
Rong Wu, IWD Speaker Liason, PhD Student, Northwestern University
Rong Wu is a second-year doctoral student in Applied Physics at Northwestern University, where she investigates the fundamental mechanisms governing chemical reactions on heterogeneous catalytic surfaces. More specifically, Rong develops advanced observational tools capable of imaging and monitoring catalytic processes in operando. Her work integrates high-resolution electron energy loss spectroscopy (HREELS), photodesorption spectroscopy, and complementary nanoscale techniques in ultra-high vacuum (UHV) environments to directly probe surface reactions and electronic excitations. HREELS provides exceptional sensitivity to surface-adsorbate interactions, while photodesorption spectroscopy reveals the dynamics of hot carrier–mediated desorption processes. Together, these approaches offer critical insights into the evolving landscape of catalytic surfaces under realistic reaction conditions. Beyond her research, Rong is an active advocate for community-building and scientific collaboration. She serves as Event Coordinator for the SPIE (International Society for Optics and Photonics) — Northwestern University Chapter, where she organizes seminars, workshops, and outreach events to foster interdisciplinary exchange and professional development among students.
Ria Marthe, IWD Catering/Space Coordinator, PhD Candidate, University of Illinois Chicago
Ria Marathe is a third-year Ph.D. Candidate at the University of Illinois, Chicago, where she is currently integrating in vitro, in vivo, and new age methodologies to investigate how environmental toxins and their metabolites disrupt human extravillous trophoblast invasion and placental development. Her thesis project focuses on how neonicotinoid pesticide exposures affect placental function, utilizing various techniques such as a high-throughput three-dimensional placental microtissue platform that enables mechanistic testing of environmental toxicants under physiologically relevant conditions. She is an active member of the Society for Toxicology and the Society for Study of Reproduction. Aside from her passion for academic research, Ria is an advocate for improving access to educational resources around women’s health and other STEM-related topics. In her free time, Ria is on a professional dance team (Movement of Desis) and enjoys cooking, reading, and spending time with her friends/family.
Evelyn Chen, STEM Circuits co-chair, PhD Student, Northwestern University
Evelynn Chen is a PhD student in the Driskill Graduate Program at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. She conducts research in the Laronda Lab, focusing on inducing steroidogenesis in granulosa-like cells derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) to advance ovarian biology and regenerative medicine. By integrating stem cell biology, tissue engineering, and endocrine signaling approaches, her work aims to uncover mechanisms of follicle development and hormone production, with the long-term goal of developing therapeutic strategies for infertility and ovarian insufficiency. Beyond her research, Evelynn is a dedicated advocate for mentorship, education, and diversity in science. She currently serves as STEM Circuits Chair. Through this role, she works with her team to bring in diverse speakers and create spaces for open dialogue, professional development, and community building. Evelynn aspires to become an independent investigator, advancing reproductive biology and regenerative medicine while training and inspiring the next generation of scientists.
Himali Arora, STEM Circuits Co-Chair, Postdoctoral Researcher, University of Illinois Chicago
Himali Arora earned her Ph.D. in Neuroscience in India, where she investigated the role of non-coding RNAs in Zika virus-associated microcephaly. She is extensively trained in iPSC technology and has a strong passion for brain organoid research. Currently, she is a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Illinois Chicago, studying epigenetic and transcriptomic alterations in Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders. Beyond the bench, Himali is venturing into the world of science communication. When not immersed in research, she enjoys reading fiction and exploring new destinations as an avid travel enthusiast.
Camila Cardenas, Social Media Chair, PhD Candidate, University of Illinois Chicago
Camila Cárdenas Hernández is a fifth-year doctoral candidate in Dr. Soroush Tahmasebi’s lab in the Department of Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine at the University of Illinois Chicago. She graduated with honors in Chemistry from Columbus State University in 2019. Her research explores the unexpected role of Rex1 (Zfp42), a transcriptional pluripotency marker, in the translational control of mouse embryonic stem cells. By examining how Rex1 influences both global and mRNA-specific translation, her work aims to expand understanding of stem cell regulation and uncover novel mechanisms with potential relevance to human disease, X-linked intellectual disability. Beyond research, Camila is committed to student advocacy and professional development. As Co-Chair of the Career Committee in the Graduate Student Advocacy Council (GSAC), she helps support domestic and international students through career and networking resources. Originally from Bogotá, Colombia, Camila values building inclusive communities in science. She aspires to pursue a career in research and development, applying high-throughput and in vivo systems to investigate how translational control shapes gene expression, stem cell function, and disease.
Advisory Committee Team
Barbara Szynal, PhD Candidate, University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine
Barbara is a PhD Candidate at the University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine. She earned her Honors B. Sci. in Biochemistry from Loyola University Chicago, where she lead research focused on synthesizing and testing photodynamic therapy agents for cancer treatment. Her current research at UIC utilizes novel bio-engineered tools to dissect cell signaling events involved in angiogenesis. Barbara joined the Chicago Women in STEM Initiative in early 2020 as a Social Media Coordinator. Since then, she has played many roles, including STEM Circuits Co-Coordinator, Vice President, and Co-President. She now plays an active role in maintaining the Initiative’s social media platforms as she prepares to graduate.
Anna Di Staulo, PhD Candidate, University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine
Anna Di Staulo is a PhD candidate at the University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine. She earned her Bachelors of Science at Saint Louis University. After graduation she worked for a couple years as a clinical trial coordinator and research technician before pursuing her PhD. Her research interests lie in stem cell biology and tissue engineering. She is currently investigating the bone marrow microenvironment and its regulation of hematopoietic stem cells. Anna joined the Chicago Women in STEM Initiative in the spring of 2019 and serves as a member of the IWD Committee Member and Social Media Coordinator. By helping the Chicago Women in STEM initiative, Anna hopes to increase awareness about gender and ethnic bias to encourage equality in the field. Additionally, Anna serves as the Vice President of her graduate student association (GEMSSA) where she enjoys planning STEM outreach and social events. In her free time, Anna enjoys cooking, reading historical fiction, and camping.
Divya Joshi, PhD Candidate in Biomedical Engineering, Northwestern University
Divya Joshi is a PhD Candidate in Biomedical Engineering in the Department of Physical Therapy and Human Movement Science at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine. Before pursuing her PhD, Divya earned her Bachelors of Science in Biomedical Engineering at Washington University in St. Louis. Her research develops and implements novel imaging and biomechanical measurement tools to quantify deficits in musculoskeletal structure following cerebral palsy. Divya is passionate about advancing pediatric rehabilitative medicine, as well as fostering community and involvement in communities affected by childhood-onset disabilities. Additionally, she is enthusiastic about STEM outreach and education, particularly with women and children. In her free time, she enjoys cooking and trying new restaurants, reading, painting, and yoga.
Erica Rosario, STEM Circuits Team Member, PhD Candidate, Northwestern University
Erica Rosario is currently a PhD candidate in the Interdisciplinary Biological Sciences Program (IBiS) at Northwestern University. Currently, Erica is leading several projects which investigate how membrane dynamics impact organelle distribution and membrane contact site formation. She received her bachelor’s with honors from CUNY Hunter College, where she developed her interest in science communication. Erica has taken part in several STEM outreach and DEI initiatives in the Chicago area, partnering with organizations such as Society for Advancement of Chicanos and Hispanics in Science (SACNAS), Girls4science and Diversity in Biological Sciences (DiBS). Erica joined the Chicago Women in STEM initiative board in the Fall of 2023.
Jazmin Galván Achi , STEM Circuits Team Member, PhD Candidate, University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine
Jazmin Galván Achi is a PhD candidate at the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC), College of Medicine. She earned her BS in Microbiology and Immunology from Arizona State University, Tempe, where she performed undergraduate research focused on oncolytic virotherapy using Myxoma virus. Her research interests lie in virology, understanding viral pathogenesis, immunology and drug discovery. Currently, her research focuses on antiviral drug discovery. Specifically, her ongoing projects involve identifying small molecules that will inhibit SARS-CoV-2 and Ebola, among other viruses, as well as understanding and optimizing the mechanism of action of these small molecules. Jazmin joined the Chicago Women in STEM Initiative at the end of spring of 2022 as a STEM Circuits team member. Her goal as a team member in the Chicago Women in STEM initiative is to encourage and uplift like-minded women in STEM and to build a community of inspiring scientists, where they feel welcomed, safe, and valued. In addition to this, as a proud first-generation Latina, Jazmin is also an executive board member of the SACNAS Graduate chapter at UIC.
Farners Amargant i Riera, PhD, Postdoctoral Fellow, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University
Farners is a postdoctoral fellow in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Northwestern University. Farners is passionate about women’s health and her research has always been tightly aligned with the study of the female reproductive system. Dr. Amargant’s current research is focused on understanding the molecular causes of reproductive aging with the long-term objective to find treatments to extend reproductive longevity and improve overall women’s health. Farners is originally from Catalonia, Spain, where she obtained her PhD in 2018 from the Universitat Pompeu Fabra, where she studied the role of the sperm centrosome during fertilization and embryo early development. During her PhD, she also developed a novel system to be used as a gamete selection tool in Assisted Reproduction Technologies (ART). In addition to her research, she is actively involved in teaching, serving as a co-chair of several conferences, editing scientific journals, serving on committees, among many other roles. Dr. Amargant’s work has been recognized by several awards such as the “Lewis Landsberg Research Day award for Excellence in Women’s Health Research” and the “Society for the Study of Reproduction trainee research award”. Farners received the Global Consortium for Reproductive Longevity and Equality (GCRLE) grant to develop new treatments and technologies to delay reproductive aging (2020-2022). Farners joined the Chicago Women in STEM initiative in May 2019 and served as the Administrative Coordinator. She then took a more senior role in the initiative and co-organized the 2020-2021 edition of the STEM Circuits together with Kacey Suvada and Caren Nassif. In 2021, Farners was elected as the new President of the initiative, and she currently works very closely with Kacey Suvada (Vice-President) and Colleen Zaccard (Advisory Committee Chair) to establish a strong community of women in STEM in the Chicago-area and helping other Women in STEM initiatives around US. One of the main objectives that Farners has during her role as President is to promote the growth of the Chicago Women in STEM Initiative and to welcome new members from all backgrounds, nationalities, genders, and orientations to make science a more inclusive environment.
Twitter @FarnersRiera
Kathleen (Kacey) Suvada, PhD Candidate, Northwestern University
Kathleen (Kacey) Suvada is the Vice President of the Chicago Women in STEM Initiative and has been with the initiative since 2018. She is a current PhD Candidate in Neuroscience with a BS in physics and mathematics. Her current research interests implement her interdisciplinary background to understand research questions post brain injury with Dr. Ana Maria Acosta and Dr. Julius Dewald. Her research lies at the boundaries of neuroscience, engineering, and neurorehabilitation in studying the impact of a stroke on reaching coordination with the trunk. The goal of her work is to further understand the consequences of altered neural control post stroke and its impact on postural control during a seated reach, and how reaching function may be affected beyond what we have observed with the limb in isolation. Kacey is also engaged in several different organizations inside and outside Northwestern. Kacey volunteers with the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) educating the Chicago area and Chicago public schools about mental health, mental illness, and mental well-being. In addition, through the Northwestern University Brain Awareness Outreach and Science in Society, she educates K-12 students and science teachers about the basics of Neuroscience with multiple events held during the school year. The goal is to introduce and motivate students to pursue science at a young age. Kacey hopes to remain involved in these passions as she continues her career in research after her PhD. She is thrilled to be a part of the Chicago Women in STEM Initiative and to be a part of this community of amazingly inspiring individuals.
Colleen Zaccard, PhD, Advisory Committee Chair, Research Assistant Professor, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University
Dr. Colleen Zaccard is a Research Assistant Professor in the Department of Neuroscience at Northwestern’s Feinberg School of Medicine. Her research focuses on the rapidly evolving field of neuroimmunology. Dr. Zaccard’s long-standing interest in immunology, infectious diseases, and public health began with her undergraduate studies at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and continued with her predoctoral research on novel mechanisms of immune cell communication during HIV infection at the University of Pittsburgh. She currently utilizes enhanced-resolution, live-cell microscopy techniques to investigate dynamic neuro-immune cell cross-talk in health and neuro-psychiatric disorders, i.e., Alzheimer’s disease. Dr. Zaccard was recently awarded the 2020-21 Northwestern Alzheimer’s Disease Pilot Grant to support her research. Dr. Zaccard is also a strong advocate for gender equity and diversity in STEM, where women are still under-represented at advanced career stages and in leadership. As Founder and Inaugural Chair of Chicago Women in STEM Initiative, she has led a large team of postdoc, grad student, and Chicago-area professional volunteers in implementing programs to support early career women. These efforts included the annual Chicago Women in STEM Symposium, established in March 2018, and STEM Circuits, a monthly interdisciplinary cross-career level mentoring program. The 2019 Daniel I. Linzer Grant for Innovation in Diversity and Equity was awarded to Dr. Zaccard and colleagues by the Provost Office to support these efforts. Dr. Zaccard was selected in 2019 for the Postdoctoral McBride Award for furthering the Graduate School’s strategic priorities of campus diversity, service, and engagement. In late 2019, she received the first Early Career-Motivator Award from the American Women in Science (AWIS)-Chicago Chapter for her service in providing new resources and opportunities for Chicago-area women pursuing a scientist career trajectory. Beginning in 2021, Dr. Zaccard has transitioned to an advisory role in the in Initiative, serving as Advisory Committee Chair.
Twitter @ColleenZaccard