REU Participants

Stalayah Crawford

Stalayah Crawford is a junior at Georgia State University pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry. She plans to continue her education by earning a Master’s degree in Chemistry with a concentration in Biochemistry. Her career goal is to become a chemical or biochemical scientist, where she can conduct research and contribute to advancements in science.

Elianna Reiss

Elianna is a junior majoring in Biology with a concentration in Ecology at Texas A&M University–San Antonio. Her passion for ecological research began in sixth grade after shadowing a wildlife biologist studying endemic foxes, inspiring an interest in conservation and environmental science. Growing up hiking, mountain biking, and visiting national parks further strengthened her dedication to protecting ecosystems. Alongside her studies, she works as a biology, chemistry, and algebra tutor and serves as a supplemental instructor for General Biology II. During this REU, she is excited to study how development and urbanization impact ecosystems while gaining hands-on research experience for a future career in conservation and ecology.

Taryn Bello

Taryn Bello is a rising senior at Texas A&M University–San Antonio, pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Biology with a concentration in Cell and Molecular Biology. Her passion for biology began in seventh grade, when she first became fascinated by the complexity of cellular systems. Since then, she has been driven to understand how these systems function and how that knowledge can be used to benefit others. Being accepted into the INSPIRE internship is an exciting opportunity for her to strengthen her laboratory skills, engage in real research, and contribute meaningfully to scientific work. Outside of academics, Taryn enjoys spending time with loved ones, reading, and film photography.

Brystal Flemming

Brystal Flemming is a student at the University of Texas at San Antonio pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering with a minor in Biology. She is passionate about using engineering and biology to develop innovative medical technologies that improve patient care and quality of life. Her interest in biomedical engineering stems from a desire to make medical devices more accessible and affordable and accessible. She hopes to pursue a career in medical device development, where she can contribute to creating equitable and impactful healthcare solutions. Through research and hands-on laboratory experiences, Brystal aims to strengthen her technical skills while gaining experience that will prepare her for a career in the biomedical engineering field. Outside of academics, she enjoys spending time outdoors, reading, and spending quality time with her family and friends.

Alyssa Martinez

Alyssa Martinez is a biology student who has recently graduated with her associates from Palo Alto College and is now transferring to pursue her bachelor with Texas A&M University - San Antonio. Alyssa is passionate in conservation biology and humanitarian work and aims to combine the two areas to foster healthy, sustainable relationships with people and the land. She has participated in a study abroad program in Costa Rica for zoology and drawing. Her plan is to continue her education outside of the US. In addition, she has experience in animal care, 50+ volunteer hours participating in wildlife surveys and lab work, photography skills, and past professional and organizational leadership experience.

Elizabeth Almendarez

Elizabeth is a senior at Texas A&M University San Antonio with a strong passion for ecology, conservation, and environmental stewardship. Born and raised in the Rio Grande Valley, she developed a deep appreciation for the natural environment and the importance of protecting it for future generations. Before pursuing a career in ecology, she proudly served in the United States Air Force as an ophthalmic technician for over 10 years. Her military and medical experience strengthened her work ethic, attention to detail, adaptability, and commitment to excellence. As she transitions into the ecological field, she is eager to apply the discipline and skills she gained through military service and healthcare to conservation focused work. She looks forward to expanding her knowledge, developing new skills, and contributing meaningfully through this internship and future opportunities in ecology and conservation.

Blanca Pulido

Blanca Pulido is a rising junior from Sonoma State University majoring in General Biological Sciences. With an interest in medical-adjacent work, she is looking forward to gaining more research experience and laboratory skills with the INSPIRE REU as she works under Dr. Borda collecting water samples analyzing them and alongside Dr. Valdez identifying invertebrates in sediment samples. Although most of her time is dedicated to her studies as a result of her commitment to her education, in her free time she enjoys gardening, making art, and spending quality time with her loved ones.

REU Participants