Dr. Meghan Anzelc, Ph.D., Head of Data and Analytics

Meghan Anzelc, PhD, is an experienced executive in driving positive business impact through the use of data, artificial intelligence, and technology. Previously Global Head of Data & Analytics at Spencer Stuart and Chief Analytics Officer at AXIS Capital, Anzelc is skilled at determining how existing and emerging technologies can be applied to business problems and providing jargon-free guidance to senior executives on technology and digital strategy and decision trade-offs.

After receiving her PhD in experimental high-energy particle physics from Northwestern University, Anzelc went on to a decade-long career in the property/casualty insurance industry and was then recruited into Spencer Stuart, a >$1B leading executive search and leadership advisory firm, to build their data and analytics function from scratch.

Anzelc's global experience in data and AI have made her uniquely qualified to shape strategy at businesses adapting to new and emerging AI capabilities ethically while managing risk appropriately. She has given voice to the capture and understanding of data and helped organizations unlock value from their data assets. Her skills in determining how existing and emerging technologies can be applied to business problems and her M&A strategy and due diligence experience have been an asset to companies experiencing transition and disruption. Her leadership has positively impacted multi-billion dollar books of business driving top and bottom line improvements at organizations from $1B to $25B and she serves as a strategic advisor to C-suite executives and boards of directors on AI, data, and digital transformation across strategy and operations.

Anzelc was awarded Diligent's 2023 Compliance and Ethics Leader of the Modern Governance 100 and Outstanding Mentor by RevTech Labs in 2023. She serves on the Advisory Board of Athena Alliance, is an Advisor to FinTech startups through RevTech Labs and previously served on the board and as chair of the Nom/Gov Committee of the Chicago Literacy Alliance.

As a graduate student, Anzelc was chair of the American Physical Society's Forum on Graduate Student Affairs and served as the student representative to the Committee on the Status of Women in Physics. She has been involved in diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives since and was a recipient of the 2011 NALC Above-and-Beyond award for Travelers' Women in Actuarial and Analytics organization, which she co-founded and co-chaired. In 2022, Anzelc served as an Advisory Board member to the American Physical Society's Advancing Graduate Leadership initiative. She holds a master’s and PhD in physics and astronomy from Northwestern University and a bachelor’s in physics from Loyola University Chicago.

Life as an Astronomer

Abstract

The Universe is filled with a fascinating mix of stars, gas, black holes, and dark matter. I will share some of the latest news from the Universe — some of it fresh from the Hubble Space Telescope — along with my personal perspective about what it’s been like to pursue a career in science.

About our speaker

Dr. Julianne Dalcanton, Director of the Flatiron Institute's Center for Computational Astrophysics

Julianne Dalcanton joined the Simons Foundation in September 2021 as the director of the Flatiron Institute’s Center for Computational Astrophysics (CCA). Her research specializes in the origins and evolution of galaxies.

Most recently, Dalcanton has worked with the Hubble Space Telescope (HST) to dissect images of nearby galaxies into millions of stars. Through these efforts, she has become one of the largest single users of the Hubble Space Telescope, most notably as principal investigator of a large HST Multicycle Treasury.

Prior to joining the foundation, Dalcanton served as professor of and chair of astronomy and an adjunct professor of physics at the University of Washington. She earned a Ph.D. in astrophysical sciences from Princeton University and a bachelor’s degree in physics from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. She completed postdoctoral training at the Observatories of the Carnegie Institution of Washington.

Throughout her career, Dalcanton has been recognized for achievements in the field of astrophysics. She has been awarded an Alfred P. Sloan Research Fellowship, a National Science Foundation CAREER award for junior faculty, a NASA Hubble Postdoctoral Fellowship, a Wyckoff Faculty Fellowship through the College of Arts and Sciences at the University of Washington, the Mohler Prize from the University of Michigan and the Beatrice Tinsley Prize from the American Astronomical Society. She has also given the invited Eddington Lecture at the University of Cambridge, the Baird Lecture at the Ohio State University, the Spitzer Lectures at Princeton and the Sackler Lecture at Leiden University.

In addition to her research programs, Dalcanton has been widely involved in community governance and planning. She is currently serving on the steering committee of the Astro2020 Decadal review, after being vice chair of the Nearby Science Frontier Committee during the Astro2010 Decadal review. She has also previously been a member of NASA’s Cosmic Origins Program Analysis Group, the National Optical Astronomy Observatory’s Optical-NIR Long Range Planning Committee, and the Science Advisory Committee of the Giant Magellan Telescope, in addition to being a co-lead of the AURA “From Cosmic Birth to Living Earths” study of a possible next-generation large space telescope. Dalcanton has served as vice-chair of the Space Telescope Science Institute Council, a member of the Collaboration Advisory Council of the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS), chair of the SDSS Galaxy Working Group and a member of the AURA nominating committee.

As a third-generation teacher, Dalcanton is equally committed to education and outreach. She has taught more than 1,500 students, and regularly participates in outreach events. She has also written for popular science outlets, including Discover.

Roadblocks and Radiation: My Journey to a Career in Medical Physics 

Abstract

What is a medical physicist and how do you become one? In this talk, I will share my journey from deciding to major in physics in high school, discovering medical physics through a google search in college, battling a chronic illness in graduate school and residency, to starting my career as a therapeutic proton physicist and now balancing a career while navigating new parenthood. I will discuss the pathway to become a medical physicist and share highlights of my research and clinical achievements along the way. Throughout my schooling and career, I have trusted my instincts and sought mentorship, which has been invaluable in shaping my career and fostered a passion for outreach. 

Dr. Jennifer Dorand, Senior Medical Physicist at ProCure

Dr. Jennifer Dorand graduated from William and Mary in 2009 with a BS in physics and received her Ph.D. in physics at Wake Forest University in 2014. While there, she had the opportunity to explore the clinical and academic aspects of medical physics, participating in research and quality assurance in the Department of Radiation Oncology. Her doctoral work focused on the development and characterization of a Sr-90 irradiation device for the study of cutaneous radiation injury following a radiological incident and has led to continued efforts to develop radiation countermeasures for cutaneous radiation injury. Following her graduate studies, Dr. Dorand completed a fellowship in medical physics at the Mayo Clinic and received her board certification from the American Board of Radiology in 2018. Dr. Dorand now works as a senior medical physicist at ProCure, a stand-alone proton radiation therapy clinic, in Somerset, New Jersey and as an intermittent medical physicist at the East Orange VA Medical Center. In addition to her work in the clinic, she serves on multiple committees in the American Association of Physicists in Medicine (AAPM), including the Women’s Professional Subcommittee and the Working Group on Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Committee Outreach and Social Media. She also mentors undergraduate women in physics through the Mentoring for Careers in Physics program at William and Mary. 

What it Means to Become a (Quantum) Scientist

Abstract

While we often celebrate the outcomes of research and science, including novel ideas and deeper scientific understanding, we sometimes forget to appreciate the steps we take to arrive at these innovations. The research process involves so much more – critical thinking, constantly asking questions, revising ideas, and effectively communicating your ideas for further discussions and collaboration. In my talk, I would like to take a step back and share the process I went through to become a scientist, including the skills and/or lessons I’ve learned at each stage of my career. I will also discuss how I currently contribute to research in a quantum computing startup and conclude with what I can continue working on to improve as a scientist. 

Dr. Sukin (Dylan) Sim, Quantum Applications Architect at PsiQuantum 

Dylan (they/them) is a quantum applications architect at PsiQuantum working on building compilation tools for fault-tolerant quantum computers. They completed their PhD at Harvard University under Professor Alán Aspuru-Guzik, where they worked on developing analysis tools and circuits for near-term quantum algorithms. Before graduate school, they attended Wellesley College, where they majored in chemical physics. 

Career Paths in Physics and Engineering: Panel

Babbio Center - Room TBD

This panel explores the diverse opportunities within physics and engineering, highlighting various career trajectories. Experts from different sectors will share their journeys and the valuable insights they've gained throughout their careers.

About our presenters

Renee Pedrazzani, Content Strategist, Thorlabs

Renee Pedrazzani is a Content Strategist at Thorlabs, a vertically integrated manufacturer of photonics equipment. In this role, she supports Thorlabs’ educational outreach initiatives by creating video and written content published to the Thorlabs website and YouTube, contributing hands-on instructive demos to the Thorlabs Mobile Lab Experience, and leading the development of the Thorlabs Toolkit app. Previously, she worked as an Optical Scientist and program lead developing prototypes funded through the SBIR (Small Business Innovation Research) program at Luna, a Roanoke, VA company specializing in fiber optic-based technology. Before earning her PhD, she fabricated fiber optic gratings as a member of technical staff at Bell Laboratories, Lucent Technologies.

Renee has master’s and PhD degrees in Optics from the University of Rochester, where her PhD research focused on the optical properties of III-V semiconductors, and masters’ and bachelor’s degrees in Electrical Engineering, where she first began to explore her interests in fiber optics and communications.

Through her academic and professional work, she has explored many different aspects of the photonics field, as well as worked in a variety of positions in the industry. It is a fascinating field with opportunities for people of almost every background. When not at Thorlabs, she is likely to be found on a bicycle or a rock wall, going for a run, or digging in her garden.

Shuang Chen, Ph.D., Laboratory Manager, Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology at Stevens

Dr. Chen holds a Ph.D. in Chemistry, specializing in drug development and nanoparticle drug delivery and is a Lab Manager at Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology. Dr. Chen oversees research and teaching labs, ensuring safety compliance, efficient operations, and optimal instrument functionality.

With expertise in troubleshooting and aligning technical goals with strategic initiatives, she drives impactful research while maintaining a safe and productive teaching environment. Combining scientific innovation with operational leadership, Dr. Chen focuses on the student-centric research through fostering an environment conducive to advancing discoveries in pharmaceutical sciences.

Amy Renné, Senior Medical Physics Ph.D. Candidate at the University of Chicago and Argonne National Laboratory

Amy Renné is a 4th year medical physics PhD candidate at the University of Chicago and Argonne National Laboratory focusing her dissertation work on targeted radionuclide therapy. Completing her bachelor’s degree at Stevens Institute of Technology in physics with a minor in mathematics, she transitioned to medical physics after interning at Argonne her senior year through the Lee Teng Accelerator Science fellowship. At the conclusion of this work, she was hired as a full-time research aide working primarily on computational Monte Carlo problems concerning isotope production optimization. At Argonne, Amy fell in love with the prospect of using nuclear physics to treat cancer which laid the foundation of her graduate studies. She is now investigating the therapeutic potential of Terbium155 (Tb-155), a promising Auger electron emitter. Because of the very short range of Auger electrons in the body, they have the unique potential to destroy cancer cells without harming normal tissue when successfully delivered to cancer cell DNA. Amy is working on novel production and delivery methods of Tb-155 in order to explore the efficacy of Auger emitters in metastatic small-cell cancer treatment. She is currently engineering dual-targeting radiopharmaceuticals which can selectively deliver Tb-155 to cancer cells and localize in their nucleus for safe and powerful destruction via the Auger effect.

In parallel, Amy is using GammaSphere at Argonne’s ATLAS facility to develop a new rapid cross section measurement method (RapX) for light-ion nuclear reactions relevant to medical isotope production. RapX can reconstruct excitation function data crucial for optimized isotope production planning in a fraction of the time of traditional methods by leveraging the unique fingerprint left by prompt gamma cascades during compound nucleus reactions. Enjoying computational challenges, she also works on nuclear reaction and cellular dosimetry modeling to optimize experimental outcomes.

Outside of the lab, Amy is an active member of the Chicago community and spends her time volunteering with Punks with Lunch, attending shows in the local music scene, tattooing, running, and powerlifting.

Also joining from MIT:

Sadia Hoq, Technical Staff Member at MIT Lincoln Laboratory

Sadia Hoq is a technical staff member at MIT Lincoln Laboratory in the Systems & Analysis group, where she has worked for seven years. In that time, her analysis has focused on a variety of topics impacting aircraft survivability, including physics-based modeling and simulation as well as data analysis of radio frequency (RF) and infrared (IR) sensors. Prior to joining the laboratory, Sadia received a B.A. in Astronomy and Physics, and a Masters and Ph.D. in Astronomy from Boston University (BU). While at BU, her research focused on star clusters as distance indicators in the galaxy as well as the impact of the galactic magnetic field on star formation. *(10:15 session only)

Carrie Huguenin, Associate Group Leader of the Microelectronics Laborator, MIT

Carrie Huguenin joined MIT Lincoln Laboratory in June 2023 as Associate Group Leader of the Microelectronics Laboratory. Raised in Woods Hole, Massachusetts, she holds B.S. and M.S. degrees from MIT’s Department of Materials Science and Engineering. Her career in the microelectronics industry has spanned over three decades, including positions at National Semiconductor’s Fairchild Research Center, Intel Fab5, Skyworks Solutions, and Raytheon’s RF Components fab. She has been a Process Engineer, a Quality Engineering Manager, a Quality Director, and is currently a Fab General Manager. Earlier in her career, she worked at the semiconductor industry epicenters of the ‘Microprocessor Revolution’ of the 1990s and the ‘Smartphone Boom’ of the 2010s. For the past five years, Carrie has dedicated herself to enabling technology in support of national security. *(10:15 session only)

Natalie Rugg, Data Analyst (and Systems Analyst and Physicist), Information Integration and Decision Support group, MIT Lincoln Laboratory

Natalie Rugg is a data analyst (and systems analyst and physicist) in the Information Integration and Decision Support group in the Space Systems and Technology division at MIT Lincoln Laboratory. Day-to-day, she analyzes radar and optical telescope data of satellites for the Department of Defense and the Department of Commerce. Natalie has been at MIT Lincoln Laboratory for about two years, joining after a year of post-bac experiences at the Department of Energy’s National Laboratories. She graduated from Brown University with a Sc.B. in astrophysics in 2021. MIT Lincoln Laboratory has supported Natalie’s growth as a programmer and as an analyst both through presenting new challenges and supporting her education. She has grown her presentation skills and confidence, and she can imagine a healthy and fulfilling future at Lincoln Lab. *(11:30 session only)

Rebecca Venegas, Technical Staff Member, Active Optical Systems Group, MIT Lincoln Laboratory

Rebecca Venegas is a Technical Staff Member working in the MIT Lincoln Laboratory Active Optical Systems Group. With a B.S. from MIT in Aeronautics and Astronautics and an M.S. from University of Central Florida College Center for Research and Education in Optics and Lasers (UCF CREOL) in Optics and Photonics, her mix of engineering and physics has given her both breadth and depth in her field. She has worked on high level system trade studies as well as hands on characterization and testing. Her previous experience was in the defense industry at Lockheed Martin before she chose to dive into the pure research and development side of things at Lincoln Lab. In her ten years of working experience, she has worked across multiple disciplines and with various subject matter experts throughout the industry. *(11:30 session only)

Summer Research and Grad School: Panel

Babbio Center - Room TBD

This panel will provide attendees practical advice on pursuing summer research opportunities and grad school. Panelists, including current undergrad and graduate students, postdoc, and professors with summer research and grad school admission expertise, will share their insight from different perspectives.

About our presenters

Dr. Rainer Martini, Associate Professor, Department of Physics and Associate Dean for Graduate Studies, Stevens

Rainer Martini received the Diploma degree in physics from the University of Bonn, Germany, in 1995, and the Ph.D. degree in physics from the RWTH Aachen, Germany, in 1999 focused on the far-infrared (terahertz-) emission. In 1999, he entered a joint research program with Bell Laboratories, Lucent Technologies, and Stevens Institute of Technology, where he achieved for the first-time high frequency modulation from semiconductor mid-infrared lasers above 10 GHz and transmission of digital data up to 2.5 GBit/s. Since August 2001, he has been with Stevens Institute of Technology, Hoboken, NJ, where he holds the position of Associate Dean for Graduate Studies in the school of Engineering and Sciences.

His research explores the possibility of communication in up till now ‘vast’ and ‘unused’ regions of the light spectrum (like the mid-infrared and the far-infrared) as well as the possibility of ultra-high-speed communication and sensing using all-optical techniques. Recent research results include first non-resonant optical modulation of QC-lasers and a polymer-based room temperature 2 Megapixel image system working from 400nm (UV) to 70 GHz (RF).

Dr. Pinar Akcora, Associate Professor in the Chemical Engineering & Materials Science Department at Stevens

Pinar Akcora is an Associate Professor in the Chemical Engineering & Materials Science Department at Stevens. She received her Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering at the University of Maryland-College Park in 2005 and completed her post-doctoral work at Columbia University between 2005-2008. She joined University of Missouri-Columbia, Chemical Engineering as an assistant professor in 2008 and has moved to Stevens in 2010. She is the recipient of the 2010 NSF-CAREER award and has received several grants from NSF-DMR, -CMMI and ACS PRF. She currently serves as the coordinator of the Nanotechnology Graduate Program at Stevens. She ran the REU/RET Site program on Interdisciplinary Research Experience in Sustainable Energy and Bioengineering at Stevens between 2020-23.

Dr. Kaitlin Gili, Postdoctoral at Tufts University

Kaitlin Gili is a postdoctoral computational learning/modeling researcher in the Computer Science Dept. at Tufts University. She obtained her PhD from the University of Oxford in the field of quantum physics and machine learning with a full fellowship from the U.S. Army Research Office. Her prior publications focus on classical and quantum generative machine learning, where her current research utilizes probability and information theory to intentionally design models for cognitive processes and behaviors in educational settings. She is a former intern of Xanadu Technologies, Zapata Computing, Los Alamos National Laboratory, and IBMQ Tokyo. She holds a Bachelors degree in Physics from Stevens Institute of Technology, where she served three years as a Young Alumni Trustee on the University Board.

In addition to research, Kaitlin currently leads the project Iteration One, funded by the Unitary Fund, which delivers educational content to high schools in-person, igniting their curiosity in physics and machine learning. In 2019, she co-founded the 501(c)(3) Encouraging Women Across All Borders (EWAAB), an organization who’s mission is to ensure that all young women and non-binary students have access to the mentorship and tools to succeed in their respective field. She served as the CEO of EWAAB for 2-years, and now serves as Chair of the Board, supporting the current Board and full-time CEO.

Also delivering perspective from the student experience at Stevens:

Michel Inman, Ph.D. Candidate, Department of Physics at Stevens

Michel Inman is a Ph.D. candidate for Physics at Stevens Institute of Technology. Her research involves nano fabrication of nonlinear quantum photonic chips that can be used for many applications.

She started her undergraduate studies at Ivy Tech Community College where she got an Associates of Liberal Arts, before transferring to Eastern Illinois University to get two Bachelors, one in Physics and another in Philosophy.

Michel also serves on the organizing committee at Stevens for this year's APS Conference for Undergraduate Women and Gender Minorities in Physics.

Erin McGee, Senior, Department of Physics at Stevens

Erin is a fourth-year physics and pure and applied mathematics major at Stevens Institute of Technology. She is interested in experimental quantum optics and has previously worked in nanophotonics research at Harvard's Laboratory for Nanoscale Optics, in quantum space communication at NASA Headquarters, and on quantum optics for the LIGO detector. She is also passionate about science communication and outreach through APS as an Undergraduate Ambassador.

Flipping the Script: Using Negative Ideas to Build Better Physics Programs for Women and Gender Minorities

Babbio Center - Room TBD

This highly interactive workshop explores how negative brainstorming can serve as a tool for creative problem-solving in education. Participants will explore the frustrations that contribute to gender disparities in physics programs, specifically focusing on how institutional practices and environments may inadvertently discourage women. By intentionally brainstorming ways to make physics programs worse for women, attendees will then flip these negative ideas into positive actions aimed at creating more inclusive, supportive environments.

About our presenter

Dr. Sandra Clavijo, Director of Undergraduate Studies at Stevens

Dr. Sandra Clavijo is the Director of Undergraduate Studies for the Schaefer School of Engineering & Sciences at Stevens Institute of Technology. In collaboration with the Associate Dean, Sandra works closely with the Dean, department chairs, associate chairs, faculty, and staff to enhance and develop the undergraduate academic programs in the School of Engineering & Sciences, with a strong focus on strategic initiatives to continuously improve these programs. Previously, Sandra worked in the Office of Innovation & Entrepreneurship, where she developed programs to encourage and support entrepreneurship and entrepreneurial thinking for both faculty and students at Stevens. She also teaches courses in Entrepreneurial Thinking and Innovation and facilitates creativity workshops.

Before joining Stevens, Sandra worked as a consulting engineer with Stantec and T&M Associates, specializing in Urban Land Redevelopment and Municipal Engineering. She holds a Professional Engineering license in New Jersey. Sandra earned her B.S. in Civil & Environmental Engineering and an A.B. in Art History from Lafayette College. She also holds a Master of Engineering degree in Engineering Management from Stevens Institute of Technology, and a Doctorate in Education from Drexel University, where her research focused on the sense of belonging among female mechanical engineering students.

Pride in Physics: A Discussion on the LGBTQ+ Landscape in Physics

Babbio Center - Room TBD

LGBTQ+ spaces in physics have grown and advanced in the past few decades, but the safety and well-being of LGBTQ+ folk in this field is still far from guaranteed, and too often these people are pushed to compromise their own identity for the comfort and values of others. In this session, which is part panel discussion and part group discussion, we will discuss current LGBTQ+ issues in physics, steps that are needed to achieve a more welcoming, inclusive environment, and resources to aid in our work.

About our presenters

Dr. Lindsay Victoria Goodwin (they/them, she/her), Assistant Professor in Physics at the New Jersey Institute of Technology

Lindsay Victoria Goodwin (they/them, she/her) is a queer and disabled physicist, specializing in plasma physics in the geospace environment and coupling from the Sun to the Earth. Lindsay received their BSc in Physics at the University of Calgary (2005), and their MSc (2014) and PhD (2018) in Physics and Engineering Physics at the University of Saskatchewan. Afterwards they went on to fill postdoctoral research positions at Boston University and the New Jersey Institute of Technology before being awarded the Jack Eddy Fellowship in 2020. They are now an Assistant Professor at the New Jersey Institute of Technology. In addition to researching and teaching, they serves as a panelist for the National Academies's 2024-2033 Decadal Survey for Solar and Space Physics (Heliophysics) and as a science steering committee member for the NSF's Coupling, Energetics and Dynamics of Atmospheric Regions Program.

Lucas Vanzelli, Comupter Science Undergraduate at Stevens

Lucas Vanzelli is a second-year Computer Science major from Red Bank, NJ, studying at Stevens Institute of Technology.

He serves as Co-President of oSTEM, an organization supporting LGBTQIA+ students and allies in navigating professional environments. Additionally, he is an active brother of Alpha Phi Omega, where he holds the role of Public Relations Chair.

Lucas is passionate about bridging the gap between technology and diversity, aiming to foster innovation that promotes equitable opportunities for all.

Mads Rose, Mechanical Engineering Undergraduate at Stevens

Mads Rose (he/they) is a second-year student studying mechanical engineering at Stevens Institute of Technology. As Co-President of the LGBTQIA+ professional development organization, Out in STEM (oSTEM), he strives to create a safe space in STEM for people of diverse backgrounds. They are also passionate about leadership development in Alpha Phi Omega, a gender-inclusive service fraternity.

From Vision to Victory: Empowering Women and Gender Minorities in STEM through Campus Initiatives

Babbio Center - Room TBD

This session showcases transformative initiatives empowering women and gender minorities in STEM, led by student organizations and campus departments dedicated to advancing gender equity. A panel of student leaders and professional staff members will share their experiences creating impactful programs such as professional development workshops, leadership conferences, and safe spaces for marginalized communities. Attendees will gain actionable insights and practical tips for bringing these best practices to their own campuses, fostering empowerment and inclusion in STEM disciplines. Join us to explore how vision and collaboration drive meaningful change.

About our presenters

Liliana Delman, M.S., Director of Student Culture and Belonging at Stevens

Liliana Delman, M.S. (she/her) is the Director of Student Culture and Belonging at Stevens Institute of Technology. In her role, Liliana supports students to build a community of belonging and provides education and social opportunities for exploring inclusive leadership.

In addition to her role as Director, Liliana also serves as an Adjunct Professor in the Stevens MBA program and provides consulting services for companies and schools.

Liliana earned her bachelors degree from Smith College in American Studies and Urban Studies where she concentrated on intersections of race and gender in social movements and got her masters from Miami University in Student Affairs in Higher Education with a concentration in diversity, equity and culture.

Ashley Codner, Program Coordinator for Makuu: The Black Cultural Center at the University of Pennsylvania

Ashley Codner, M.A., (she/her) is a Black Studies scholar and educational equity advocate who works to situate identity at the forefront of her scholarly and professional career. In her current role as Program Coordinator for Makuu: The Black Cultural Center at the University of Pennsylvania, Ashley supports Black students’ ability to thrive, be seen, and lead with purpose.

Ashley is a former Mellon Mays Undergraduate Fellow, a Rutgers School of Graduate Studies Dean’s Fellow, and a former Rutgers PreDoctoral Leadership Development Fellow.

Also joining from across a variety of Stevens programs:

Elizabeth Halton, Civil Engineering Undergraduate at Stevens

Elizabeth Halton is a current third year civil engineering major. She is also the current president of the Stevens SWE chapter and has been involved with the organization since High School. Outside of her work with SWE Elizabeth is a member of ASCE and participates in on campus research in the Advanced Concrete Technology Lab at Stevens. This past summer she conducted research on 3d printing with concrete at the Munich University of Applied Science in Munich Germany as a part of the DAAD Rise Germany program.

Jeylan Jubran, Industrial and Systems Engineering Student, Lab Supervisor at the Makerspace at Stevens

Jeylan Jubran is an Industrial and Systems Engineering student, and a lab supervisor at the Makerspace at Stevens Institute of Technology. The Makerspace includes initiatives and weekly workshops to support women and gender minorities in STEM. She is also Co-Social Chair for Stevens Society of Women Engineers (SWE) who create and foster an inclusive empowering environment for women.

Awa M.M. Kah, Biomedical Engineering Undergraduate at Stevens

Awa M.M. Kah (she/her) is a 4/4 Biomedical Engineering major at Steven’s Institute of technology. She currently is the president of the National society of black engineers and sisterhood chair for the Muslim students association. Additionally, Awa serves as a Resident Assistant for the Harries tower. She is currently pursuing her senior design research in skin rehabilitation for chemical skin bleaching patients and holds a strong passion for dermatology and immunology.

Tanishka Kapoor, President of the Stevens Women in Business Club, Finance Undergraduate at Stevens

Tanishka Kapoor is the current President of the Stevens Women in Business club at Stevens. She is a junior Finance major and feels passionate about promoting opportunities and advocating for women in male dominated industries. On campus, she has also served on the student cabinet of the Stevens Student Government Association and has written for the student newspaper, The Stute.

New Beginnings - Easing the Transfer College Experience (10:15 am session only*)

Babbio Center - Room TBD

Transferring to a new institution presents both excitement and challenges for students. The Transfer Success Workshop at Stevens Institute of Technology aims to support current college students considering a transfer by alleviating anxiety and providing essential guidance throughout the process. Participants will gain insights into navigating the application journey, managing academic transitions, and adapting to a new campus culture. The workshop covers critical topics such as researching potential schools, crafting a compelling application, and maximizing both academic and extracurricular opportunities. Additionally, it addresses common concerns regarding academic demands, social adjustments, and utilizing campus resources. Through practical advice and personalized support, the workshop seeks to empower students with the confidence needed for a successful transition.

About our presenters

Gregory Bardzell, Associate Director of Transfer Admissions at Stevens

Gregory Bardzell is a higher education professional with over 8 years of experience combined in program development, stakeholder partnerships, and transfer admissions. He has held key roles at St. Francis College and the University of Arizona, where he developed transfer initiatives and managed recruitment efforts. Additionally, Gregory has international experience from his work living in China with Northeastern University and in Cambodia and Indonesia with the University of Arizona.

Since November 2023, Gregory has been the Associate Director of Transfer Admissions at Stevens Institute of Technology, focusing on developing transfer student initiatives and building strategic partnerships to enhance recruitment. He oversees transfer recruitment efforts, collaborates with community colleges to create robust enrollment pipelines, and works with various offices to ensure a smooth admissions process, all while emphasizing partnerships and communication with prospective students to drive enrollment growth.

Allison Kosswig, Assistant Director of Transfer in the Office of Undergraduate Academics at Stevens

As Assistant Director of Transfer in the Office of Undergraduate Academics, Allison's primary responsibilities are to support students in seeking transfer credit towards their Stevens degree.

For current students, Allison coordinates the transfer credit evaluation process for students wishing to transfer dual enrollment courses from high school, planning to explore our travel abroad opportunities, or seeking opportunities to take program requirements at other universities.

In addition, Allison collaborates with the Office of Undergraduate Admissions to support Transfer Students who plan to matriculate at Stevens after completing a semester or more at a prior university.

Michel Inman, Ph.D. Candidate, Department of Physics at Stevens

Michel Inman is a PhD candidate for physics at Stevens Institute of Technology. Her research involves nano fabrication of nonlinear quantum photonic chips that can be used for many applications.

She started her undergraduate studies at Ivy Tech Community College where she got an Associates of Liberal Arts, before transferring to Eastern Illinois University to get two Bachelors, one in Physics and another in Philosophy.

Panel: The Quantum Industry

Babbio Center - Room TBD

Experts in the quantum industry will discuss advancements and opportunities in the field. They will also share their personal journeys and challenges faced along the way, especially as women and gender minorities.

About our presenters

Dr. Kaitlin Gili, Postdoctoral, Tufts University

Kaitlin Gili is a postdoctoral computational learning/modeling researcher in the Computer Science Dept. at Tufts University. She obtained her PhD from the University of Oxford in the field of quantum physics and machine learning with a full fellowship from the U.S. Army Research Office. Her prior publications focus on classical and quantum generative machine learning, where her current research utilizes probability and information theory to intentionally design models for cognitive processes and behaviors in educational settings. She is a former intern of Xanadu Technologies, Zapata Computing, Los Alamos National Laboratory, and IBMQ Tokyo. She holds a Bachelors degree in Physics from Stevens Institute of Technology, where she served three years as a Young Alumni Trustee on the University Board.

In addition to research, Kaitlin currently leads the project Iteration One, funded by the Unitary Fund, which delivers educational content to high schools in-person, igniting their curiosity in physics and machine learning. In 2019, she co-founded the 501(c)(3) Encouraging Women Across All Borders (EWAAB), an organization who’s mission is to ensure that all young women and non-binary students have access to the mentorship and tools to succeed in their respective field. She served as the CEO of EWAAB for 2-years, and now serves as Chair of the Board, supporting the current Board and full-time CEO.

Paloma Machain, Quantum Computing Researcher, Nokia-Bell Labs

Paloma is a condensed matter physicist specialized in topological phases of matter. Her experience in condensed matter physics goes from studying atomistic processes in 2D systems and coupling topological defects in chiral-magnets and superconducting systems to fabrication devices that host exotic topological phases of matter for quantum computing applications.

In 2023, she joined Nokia-Bell Labs as a Quantum Computing Researcher, and she is responsible for the design, fabrication, optimization, and simulation of topological devices for the study of topological phases of matter and the realization of a topological qubit. She currently focuses on creating innovative and tailored approaches to device geometry and architecture to attain greater oscillation amplitudes in interferometry experiments.

Dr. Lac Nguyen, Quantum Technology Lead, Quantum Computing Inc.

Lac Nguyen, PhD, is the Quantum Technology Lead at Quantum Computing Inc. She is leading a passionate team of scientists and engineers, she designs and develops resilient, SWAP-C capable, room-temperature, scalable, and sustainable quantum systems on lithium niobate platforms. These systems include a Quantum Random Number Generator, Entropy Quantum Optimization Machine, and Quantum Authentication.

With over eight years of experience in quantum information science, quantum optics, and quantum and classical communication, Nguyen holds multiple patents representing core QCi technologies. She is a recipient of the 2023 Edison Patent Award in Science and Technology.

Dr. Sukin (Dylan) Sim, Quantum Applications Architect at PsiQuantum

Dylan (they/them) is a quantum applications architect at PsiQuantum working on building compilation tools for fault-tolerant quantum computers. They completed their PhD at Harvard University under Professor Alán Aspuru-Guzik, where they worked on developing analysis tools and circuits for near-term quantum algorithms. Before graduate school, they attended Wellesley College, where they majored in chemical physics.

Seeking Opportunities in a Male-Dominated Space: Applying to Positions with Confidence and Skill

Babbio Center - Room TBD

Discover how to develop your professional persona through documents and various online platforms as well as how to present yourself effectively in an interview. In this workshop you will learn how to 1) determine the best professional profile for your career goals, 2) create consistent professional documents and online profiles, 3) effectively research and prepare for an interview, and finally 4) conduct yourself in an interview both in person and virtually.

About our presenter

Sam Collins, CEO, Encouraging Women Across All Borders

Sam Collins is a passionate advocate for gender inclusion and equity and is a strong believer in the power of mentorship. As the CEO of the nonprofit Encouraging Women Across All Borders (EWAAB) she develops the confidence and professional skills of young women and non-binary folks across the U.S. and internationally. She uses her experience as a first-generation student and her Master’s Degree in Higher & Postsecondary Education to build new learning experiences and support systems for students and young professionals in all fields.

Supporting Yourself and Other Folx in STEM

Babbio Center - Room TBD

Practical tips for succeeding in male-dominated STEM fields.

About our presenter

Dr. Eve Riskin, Dean of Undergraduate Education at Stevens

Eve Riskin received her BS degree in Electrical Engineering from M.I.T. and her graduate degrees in EE from Stanford. She was Professor of Electrical & Computer Engineering at the University of Washington, where she was Faculty Director of their ADVANCE program for women faculty in STEM for 20 years, and founded their STARS program from students from limited-income backgrounds in Engineering and Computer Science. She is now at Stevens Institute of Technology where she is Dean of Undergraduate Education and Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering. At Stevens, she leads an office of 11 people who work to provide undergraduate students the best possible academic experience.

Dr. Riskin was awarded a National Science Foundation Young Investigator Award, a Sloan Research Fellowship, the 2006 Hewlett-Packard Harriett B. Rigas Award, and a 2020 Presidential Mentoring Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics, and Engineering Mentoring. She is a Fellow of the IEEE.

Women of Color in STEM: Panel

Babbio Center - Room TBD

A panel of self-identified Women of Color discuss their experiences in STEM and what has helped them navigate the field. 

About our presenters

Valerie Guerrero Williamson, Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at Stevens

Dr. Valerie Guerrero Williamson is the Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the Office of the President at Stevens. Having attended nearly a dozen schools before graduating from high school and becoming a first-generation college student, Dr. V has held a lifelong commitment to combatting educational inequities across the United States. She has worked with students from kindergarten to graduate school, to increase the number of minoritized students who enter, are retained, and succeed in higher education.

Dr. V’s research and practice focus on higher education at the organizational level, including equity-oriented change models and their implementation, campus climates and cultures, cultivating critical praxis, and faculty development and socialization.  

Shruti Shrestha, Assistant Teaching Professor of Physics, Penn State Brandywine

Shruti Shrestha is an assistant teaching professor of physics at Penn State Brandywine. As a particle physicist, she has contributed to developing the High-Voltage Monolithic Active Pixel Sensors for the Mu3e Experiment.

Shruti is also an active member of the Association for Women in Science (AWIS). She writes articles in the AWIS magazine highlighting the contributions of female scientists to society, aiming to inspire and empower new generations of women to pursue STEM degrees. Through her free STEM workshops in the Philadelphia area, Shruti motivates middle and high school girls to build their confidence in their abilities.

The American Physical Society (APS)'s policy is that all participants, including attendees, vendors, APS staff, volunteers, and everyone else at APS meetings, will conduct themselves in a respectful manner that is welcoming to all participants and free from any form of discrimination, harassment, or retaliation.

Participants will treat each other with respect and consideration to create a collegial, inclusive, and professional environment at APS meetings. Creating a supportive environment to enable scientific discourse at APS meetings is the responsibility of all participants.

Participants will avoid any inappropriate actions or statements based on individual characteristics such as age, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, nationality, political affiliation, ability status, educational background, or any other characteristic protected by law. Disruptive or harassing behavior of any kind will not be tolerated. Harassment includes but is not limited to inappropriate or intimidating behavior and language, unwelcome jokes or comments, unwanted touching or attention, offensive images, photography without permission, and stalking.

Violations of this code of conduct policy should be reported to meeting organizers, APS staff, or the APS director of meetings. Sanctions may range from verbal warning, to ejection from the meeting without refund, or to notifying appropriate authorities. Retaliation for complaints of inappropriate conduct will not be tolerated. If a participant observes inappropriate comments or actions and personal intervention seems appropriate and safe, they should be considerate of all parties before intervening.

Meeting participants who wish to anonymously report a violation of this code of conduct may do so through the following channels:

• Valerie Guerrero Williamson, Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at Stevens Institute of Technology, (201) 216-3868

• Submit a report to EthicsPoint online

• Call EthicsPoint at (844) 660-3924.

• Email EthicsPoint

• Contact the APS head of meetings

• Contact the APS head of ethics

EthicsPoint reporting is confidential, easy to use, and always available. All persons filing a complaint using our confidential, easy-to-use reporting options should be prepared to check back with the channel to respond to any follow up questions about their report. Be sure to include a complete description, including who, what, where, when, of the conduct experienced or incident that is the basis of the report.

If you report anonymously, we may be limited in our ability to respond, meet your desired resolution, and/or keep you updated on the status of your complaint.

What is CU*iP?

The APS Conferences for Undergraduate Women and Gender Minorities in Physics (CU*iP) are three-day regional conferences for undergraduate physics majors. The 2025 conferences will be held January 24-26, 2025.   

The goal of APS CU*iP is to help undergraduate women and gender minorities continue in physics by providing the opportunity to experience a professional conference, information about graduate school and professions in physics, and access to women and gender minorities in physics of all ages with whom they can share experiences, advice, and ideas. The national and local organizing committees of APS CU*iP strive to create a welcoming environment for all. 

The 2025 program at Stevens Institute of Technology will include research talks, panel discussions about graduate school and careers in physics, workshops and discussions about women and gender minorities in physics, student research talks and poster sessions, and laboratory tours.

How do you pronounce CU*iP? 

Most people say "Cue-Wip".
 

Who is invited to attend CU*iP?

Undergraduate students who reside in the U.S. and have an interest in physics may apply to attend a CU*iP. We encourage non-undergraduate students or interested faculty/mentors to email [email protected] for details about attendance and participation.

Do I need to have research to present in order to attend the conference? 

No. While we encourage you to present a talk or a poster if you have been involved in research, you are welcome to attend the conference and participate in the activities.  

I attended last year; can I come to this year’s conference, too?

The content of this year’s conference will not be exactly the same as the previous year’s, and you are welcome to apply to attend again. However, if more students apply than we can accommodate, preference will be given to students who have never attended a CU*iP.  

I am a local student. Do I need to apply?

Yes, all attendees must apply by the deadline, Wednesday, October 23, 2024 at 5:00pm ET.

I'm a student from Canada. Can I apply to a U.S. site?

Students from Canada are encouraged to apply to the Canadian site, but may apply to closer U.S sites if desired. However, Canadian students accepted to U.S. sites are not eligible for reimbursement of travel expenses from the conference or for waiver of the registration fee. Please contact the U.S. site closest to you for more information.

I'm a student in a country other than the United States or Canada. Can I apply for CU*iP? 

Unfortunately, students studying in a country other than the United States and Canada are ineligible to apply. CU*iP is supported by federal funding which does not support in-person attendance for international students.  

I'm a community college student.  Am I eligible to apply to CU*iP?

Yes, undergraduate students at any U.S. college or university are strongly encouraged to apply. 

I'm a high school student/grad student/postdoc/faculty member. Am I eligible to apply to CU*iP?

Only undergraduate students who will be over 18 at the time of the conference may apply to CU*iP. 

Is this conference only open to undergraduate students who identify as women or a minoritized gender (including transgender, gender-fluid, genderqueer, non-binary)? 

No. All undergraduate students regardless of gender or any other identities, are welcome to apply to attend the conference. If you have questions, or concerns about the housing for this conference, please contact us at [email protected].

Who can attend? Do I need to be a physics major to apply?

Any undergraduate student attending a U.S college/university may apply. You must be over the age of 18 at the time of the conference. High school students are not permitted to apply.   

It is very important to complete all parts of the application and to write a thoughtful Applicant Statement. If conferences are oversubscribed, priority will be given to applicants who: 

1. Are undergraduate physics or engineering physics majors 

2. Have never attended an APS CU*iP 

There is no formal application process for non-undergraduate students and interested faculty and mentors, who can register to attend here. We encourage you to email [email protected] for details about attendance and participation. 

What’s the difference between "application" and "registration"?

You apply to attend a CU*iP conference, the CU*iP leadership directs you to a site, the site reviews your application and you are accepted or declined according to the priorities listed above. The deadline to apply is Monday, October 23, 2023 at 5:00pm ET. 

After you have been accepted, you will register for your accepted site to confirm that you will actually be attending, and provide specifics, such as special accommodations and dietary restrictions. There is a one-time registration fee of $45, which helps offset some of the cost of the conference. The conference provides all lodging and meals. If necessary, the registration fee can be waived. To request a fee waiver, please contact [email protected].

Why can I not apply to a specific site? 

As CU*iP is so popular, we need to carefully balance the loads across the sites to minimize travel costs and maximize the number of students who can attend CU*iP. Please do not book travel until you receive an acceptance email and complete registration for a specific site.

Do I need to book my travel before registering?

No, but you should have an estimate of the cost. If you are traveling by air, or long distance train or bus, and your travel cost is not covered by your department, your travel agenda and cost must be approved by the conference site organizers before you book your travel. Email us at [email protected] for approval. Due to the limited nature of our travel funds, we ask that you find the most economical means of transportation to and from the conference. For example, reach out to others in your department and see if carpooling is an option. 

What will increase my chances of being accepted to the conference?

First, make sure you submit your application by the deadline.

Second, make sure you put some thought into why you want to attend and what you want to get out of the conference. Please answer all questions on the application fully and honestly. Offering to present a talk or a poster, or indicating interest in travel support, will not affect your chances of being selected to attend. 

How much does the conference cost? 

Students who are accepted to attend the conference must pay a one-time registration fee of $45, which helps offset some of the cost of the conference, including all lodging and meals. Lodging (for non-local students) and food will be covered by the conference. You do not need to pay for your hotel room or food at the conference.  We expect that your travel expenses will be covered by your home department or college. However, if they are not able to cover these expenses, please contact us at [email protected].

If you cannot afford the registration fee and your department/college is unable to help, you may request the fee waiver form by emailing [email protected]. The request takes approximately 48 hours to review. You must request a fee waiver before registering. The deadline to request a fee waiver is on Monday, December 2, 2024 at 5:00 PM ET. Please do not wait until the last minute to request the waiver and/or to register. For more information on fee waivers, contact [email protected].

Please note that the deadline for students to cancel registration and receive a full refund is on Friday, December 13, 2024. Any cancellations beyond that date are non-refundable.

How do I know the amount my department will contribute to my travel funding?

Please talk to your department chair or director of undergraduate studies before registering for CU*iP. You might ask an academic advisor, faculty member you know, or other mentor for guidance about who to ask if you are unsure. You can also contact us if you would like guidance in asking your department for travel funds.   

My institution would like to cover the registration fee for me and other students in my department. Is there an option to do this?

We offer a payment option for departments who would like a secure way to pay for their students. Please contact [email protected] for more information.

Payment requests must be submitted by Tuesday, November 26, 2024.

How do I arrange travel?

Students are responsible for arranging their own travel to the conference. We encourage students to coordinate with other attendees from their institution. Please contact your department chair or faculty member if your department is reimbursing you for travel costs. If your department cannot fund your travel, please communicate with [email protected] for travel ticket approval before purchase.

Can I come late? Can I leave early? Can I skip things that I’m not interested in?

Since the cost of the conference is paid for, we strongly recommend you take full advantage of this opportunities and attend all of the conference events as scheduled from Friday evening until Sunday afternoon. If you have special circumstances, please contact us to discuss them.

Where do I stay during the conference?

Students will be accommodated at the Sheraton Lincoln Harbor Hotel and will share a double room. Accepted applicants will have the opportunity to provide specific roommate requests during registration. Please visit our Travel & Accommodation section for more information. If you are driving to the conference, you may park at the Sheraton Lincoln Harbor Hotel and use our shuttle service to travel to our campus. More travel information can be found here. Do not make your own hotel reservations.   

How can I get to and from the airport?

Stevens is located within close proximity of three major airports: Newark Liberty International Airport, John F. Kennedy International Airport and LaGuardia Airport.

Find out more about traveling to and from these nearby airports here.

What if I have dietary restrictions?

We will request dietary restriction information on the registration form. If you believe your dietary needs are unusual, please contact us, and we will work to accommodate you.

What should I wear to the conference?

The conference has no dress code, and we encourage students to be comfortable. There will be a plated banquet on Saturday evening and many students enjoy dressing up for this event. You may wish to look at photos of previous conferences to see what students typically wear.

Will there be resources available for attendees with disabilities?

We will request information on disability status on the registration form. Please contact us at [email protected] in advance if you have unusual requirements, and we will work to accommodate you.  

What are the guidelines for posters and talks?

The poster size should be 30" (width) x 40" (height) or smaller. The participants who wish to present posters should print their own poster.

Can I connect with those going to the conference before arriving?

To be announced.
 
I have anxiety, depression, etc, and I am worried about attending this conference. What should I do?

Please feel free to call 988 (national crisis hotline), and 741-741 (crisis text-line) which are open to all.

Please contact us at [email protected] if you are comfortable so we are aware. We will encourage you to try your best during the networking opportunities, but if you need to be paired up with someone you know (either in rooming or meals), please let us know so we can try to accommodate you. We hope that you will be able to comfortably attend the conference and get something from it, but we understand that everyone needs to go at their own pace. 

What if I need child care?

Please contact us to discuss your needs at [email protected].

What are gender pronouns?

A gender pronoun is the pronoun that a person chooses to use for themselves. For example, if Xena's preferred pronouns are she, her, and hers, you could say "Xena ate her food because she was hungry." She, her, hers and he, him, his are common examples of pronouns. Some people call these "female/feminine" and "male/masculine" pronouns, but many avoid these labels because, for example, not everyone who uses he feels like a "male" or "masculine." 

 There are also lots of gender-neutral pronouns in use. Here are a few you might hear: 

* They, them, theirs (Xena ate their food because they were hungry.) This is a pretty common gender-inclusive pronoun.... And yes, it can in fact be used in the singular. 
* Ze, hir (Xena ate hir food because ze was hungry.) 
Ze is pronounced like "zee" can also be spelled zie or xe, and replaces she/he/they. Hir is pronounced like "here" and replaces her/hers/him/his/they/theirs. 
* Just my name please! (Xena ate Xena's food because Xena was hungry) Some people prefer not to use pronouns at all, using their name as a pronoun instead. 
* Never, ever refer to a person as “it” or “he-she” (unless they specifically ask you to.) These are often used as offensive slurs.  

Why does CU*iP ask for my preferred pronouns? Why should I consider putting them on my name badge?

CU*iP seeks to be a safe space for all participants.  By asking for your pronouns, we are ensuring that we don’t accidentally misgender any of our participants or make harmful assumptions. Even if you have never considered this in relation to yourself, by including your pronouns on your name badge you can help to make other CU*iP participants comfortable. We hope you will consider this.