Meet Your Team

Anna Tuttle

Director of Undergraduate Research

(she/her)

As part of the Research and Economic Development Team, Anna is responsible for fostering collaboration between various research programs and supporting undergraduate involvement in research, amongst other things.

Anna also oversees the Undergraduate Scholars Program. You may also reach her at usp@montana.edu

Amanda Haab

Undergraduate Research Ambassador/Chair of Undergraduate Research Council
(she/her)

Amanda is a rising senior studying Microbiology who serves as a resource for students exploring their future in research. By supporting undergraduate research programming, Amanda aims to foster a community of curiosity where all students, regardless of their discipline, feel that research is accessible and relevant to them. She wants students to understand that research is not just for scientists but also for artists, philosophers, nurses, and more. Amanda is available for 1:1 support and mentoring of students interested and currently in research. 

Lenny Triem

 

Calla Castro

Calla is a senior studying Honors Microbiology and has been involved in research projects through MSU and Duke University. Her project at MSU with the Center for Biofilm Engineering and Thermal Biology Institute, "Thermophilic Degradation of Plastic Wastes," explores the hot springs in the Heart Lake Geyser Basin of Yellowstone National Park for a heat-loving microbe that can degrade (eat) plastic. Her project with Duke University "External Validation of a Caffeine Population Pharmacokinetic Model in Neonates with Congenital Heart Disease" validated a previously peer-reviewed model of the pharmacokinetics of caffeine in neonates to confirm the model for downstream use in dosing optimization. After completing her undergraduate degree, Calla hopes to continue her education in medicine and epidemiology.

Jessminda DiCello

(she/her)

Jessminda is a rising Junior. She enjoys studying biology and is originally from Bozeman, MT. She chose to attend Montana State after spending a year at Clark University in Worcester, MA, where she realized she wanted to go into a STEM field and that Montana State would be the best fit. Outside of school, she does improv at Last Best Comedy, enjoys watching movies, and spends time outside. In the future, Jessminda hopes to become a doctor and, through this avenue, make a positive impact on her community. She understands how frustrating it can feel to get involved with research, as there is not one clear path to fit every person. She has been involved in research through the Duke STAR program with MSU. She is excited to help other students get interested in research and to continue to learn more about it herself. 

Carly Jensen

(she/her)

Carly is in her second year at MSU, majoring in Microbiology with a minor in German Studies. She serves as a member of the Undergraduate Research Council, where she collaborates with the team to enhance research opportunities while making them accessible to all students who wish to be involved. As a second year student, Carly understands how overwhelming it can be to begin the research process and is passionate about empowering her peers to pursue their goals, both on and off campus. 

Zoe Seaford

Zoe is a dedicated and passionate student researcher pursuing a degree in Cell Biology and Neuroscience. She is committed to fostering academic growth, critical thinking, analytical skills, and a love for the unknown. Zoe believes in creating a supportive and collaborative environment where students are encouraged to explore their ideas, ask questions, and push the boundaries of knowledge. She is excited to get to know students from all majors and hopes to create a strong research community on campus.

Andrea Storer

(she/her)

Andrea is a senior studying Cell Biology and Neuroscience. After graduating, she will pursue a master’s in epidemiology and global health before applying to medical school. She aspires to provide rural pediatric healthcare for Iñupiat communities. She serves as a math and science tutor for minority students on campus. She is the current president of Honor Bound, a program that supports Honors College Indigenous students in their pursuits of higher education. She would love to help students begin or continue their journey in research and academics. In her free time, she can be found out in Mother Nature, at live music events, and/or with friends and family eating delish food.

Rebekah Storlie

Rebekah is a sophomore exercise science major/coaching minor and is involved in a kinesiology lab here on campus. She believes strongly in making it easier for students to get into the research opportunities that our university so proudly promotes. In addition to her involvement in the council, she also serves as an ASMSU senator for the college of Education, Health & Human Development and is enrolled in the Honors college. She is invested in representing and advocating for hardworking, dedicated students in all these areas. After her Bachelor's degree Rebekah hopes to attend graduate school to become an athletic trainer. 

Taylor Pooton

(she/her)

Taylor Pooton is a first-year student at MSU, originally from Kalispell, Montana. She is pursuing a dual major in Biochemistry and Criminology. Taylor has a passion for exploring a variety of disciplines and believes that research can provide opportunities to learn beyond just your major. Currently, she is working with Dana Rashid on a project examining sterile inflammation as a contributing factor to sacral fusion in birds and mammals. Outside of her academic work, Taylor has a deep appreciation for the fine arts, enjoys playing the flute, and, with her background in speech and debate, is always eager to assist with proposals/presentations.

Emily Moss

Emily is a first-year student at MSU studying biological engineering and is originally from Kasilof, Alaska. She is passionate about hands-on, interdisciplinary learning and wants to make learning and research fun and accessible. Outside of academics, she enjoys Nordic skiing, cycling, podcasts, and getting outside. After her bachelor's, Emily hopes to pursue synthetic biology and astrobiology.

Lenny Triem

A fourth-year microbiology and music student from Helena, MT, Lenny has conducted research at both NIAID and MSU, focusing on protein biology and biochemistry. On the undergraduate research council, he aims to support students interested in research and help develop systems to overcome barriers to undergraduate research at MSU. After graduating, he plans to pursue graduate studies in molecular biology and bioinformatics. Outside of school, Lenny also has interests in outdoor recreation, moral philosophy, and welfare biology.

Katie LeBrun

Katie is a sophomore from Laurel, MT, and is majoring in Chemical Engineering with a minor in Hispanic Studies. She has been working as an Undergraduate Researcher in the CBE through the Ecostart Internship, where she explores her interest for research and innovation through sustainable materials. Currently, she is exploring a method used to increase the effectiveness of microbially induced calcium carbonate precipitation (MICP). As a member of the Undergraduate Research Council, Katie aims to make research a less intimidating space for undergraduates. Outside of school, Katie enjoys reading, traveling, and spending time with friends and family.