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

Alyssa Harmel

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

Alyssa is a rising senior from Rugby, North Dakota, in pursuit of a degree in Environmental Sciences with a minor in Soil Sciences. An awardee of the USPand MSGCgrants, she is eager to help students take their intentions for research further, by encouraging and assisting them in submitting applications to support their research. As Research Ambassador, Alyssa aims to “illuminate ideas” and further foster a community of encouragement where all students, regardless of their discipline and experience, feel that research is accessible and relevant to them. Alyssa is available for 1:1 support for any students interested and/or currently involved in research.

Jessminda DiCello

(she/her)

Jessminda is in her third year at MSU studying Biology. She is originally from Bozeman, MT, but chose to attend Montana State after spending a year at Clark University in Worcester, MA, where she realized that Montana State would be the best fit for her interest in STEM fields. Outside of school, she does improv at Last Best Comedy, enjoys watching movies, and spending time outside. She has been involved in research through the Duke STAR program with MSU. She is excited to help other students find interests in research while also continuing to learn more about it herself.

Carly Jensen

(she/her)

Carly is in her third 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. 

Rebekah Storlie

Rebekah is a junior at MSU studying Exercise Science and Coaching. She is a firm believer in hands-on experience and wants all students to have access to real-world research opportunities. 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 second-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

Emilyis a second-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,mily hopes to pursue synthetic biology and astrobiology.

Katie LeBrun

Katie is a junior 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.

Blake Nestor

Blake is a second year student at MSU majoring in Environmental Sciences with a minor in German, while also participating in research focusing on grassland phenology. He is passionate about helping others get involved in research. Outside of his academics, he enjoys skiing, hiking, and pretty much anything else outside.

Hannah Ferguson

Hannah, a rising sophomore from Ramona, California, is majoring in Biological Engineering. She researches cell culture and genetic modification in the Schmidt Lab, serves as an officer in the Pre-PA Club, and works as a Resident Assistant in Student Housing. Hannah is also an Honors Ambassador and active in ASMSU and Bozeman Health. She plans to pursue a Master’s in Physician Assistant Studies, aiming to specialize in clinical genetics or women’s health. Hannah is passionate about healthcare and looks forward to continuing research and community involvement throughout her undergraduate career.

Katherine Hanson

Katherine is a senior from Littleton, Colorado, majoring in Cell Biology and Neuroscience with minors in Biochemistry and Hispanic studies. She conducts research in a campus virology lab, where she investigates why certain orthobunyaviruses are able to cross the blood-brain barrier while others cannot. As a member of the Undergraduate Research Council, Katherine is committed to making research opportunities more accessible and less intimidating for fellow students. Outside the lab, she’s an avid backpacker, hiker, and runner who loves spending time outdoors.