Leanne Airhienbuwa

Hometown: Guilderland, NY

Year: Junior

High School: Guilderland H.S.

Biography

In Leanne's time at Stony Brook, they plan on studying cellular and molecular engineering, with a particular emphasis on fluidics. In Leanne's free time, they like to listen to music, play video games, journal, and do their hair. Before becoming a Simons STEM Scholar, Leanne participated in the Science and Technology Entry Program at Union College. Leanne is most excited about meeting new people and doing research!

Leading the Future

I want to help prevent the spread of infectious disease across the globe. By developing vaccines for highly transmissible and studying tools to combat antibiotic resistance, I will do my part to save as many lives as I can.

Why did you become a Simons STEM Scholar?

I wanted to be part of a community that was interested in similar things, where there were people who looked like me and staff who cared about me. Additionally, when I applied to Stony Brook, I was already interested in getting a Ph.D. This program provides so much guidance in getting there.

What would you say to someone who is applying?

I would say take the plunge. You should just try because you never know where this opportunity can take you.

Research Experiences

Summer 2024 - University of Minnesota: Twin Cities under Dr. David Wood on "Triple Negative Breast Cancer in 3D Microtissues"

Summer 2025 - Howard Hughes Medical Institute Janelia Research Campus: under Dr. Kayvon Pedram "Building Pyramids from DNA"

November 2024 - Annual Biomedical Research Conference for Minoritized Students "Triple Negative Breast Cancer in 3D Microtissues"

Summer 2025 - Howard Hughes Medical Institute: Janelia Research Campus under Dr. Kayvon Pedram