student schedules an appointment on their laptop

How to make an Appointment with an Undergraduate Research Ambassador

You can get help learning, finding, and applying for Research opportunities by meeting with an Undergraduate Research Ambassador! Undergraduate Research Ambassadors are undergraduate students familiar with the process of finding and getting research experiences. Get help finding research that fits your interests, learn about the variety of opportunities, help with the application process, emailing faculty and more! Appointments are both in-person or over zoom.

How to Make an Appointment:

  1. Log in to arizona.joinhandshake.com using your NetID and password.
  2. Click on Career Center in the upper right-hand corner.
  3.  Click on Appointments.
  4. Select Schedule a New Appointment.
  5. Select University of Arizona Career Advising.
  • You may also see advising centers that are specific to your major when you get to this option. The option for University of Arizona Career Advising is open to students of all majors.

6. Select the option for Undergraduate Research Ambassador.

  • You can update your search preferences at any time by clicking the Category, Type, Staff Member, or Appointment Medium boxes at the top of the scheduling page

Meet the Undergraduate Research Ambassador Team!

Desiree Nguyen

Neuroscience & Cognitive Science (Neurobiology Emphasis), Psychological Sciences, and Molecular & Cellular Biology Major

Hello! My name is Desiree, and I am a junior majoring in Neuroscience & Cognitive Sciences, Psychological Sciences, and Molecular & Cellular Biology, graduating a year early in Spring 2024 to pursue an Accelerated Master’s in Molecular Biology. After college, I plan to attend medical school while continuing my research in aging.

A few fun facts about me: I am a Flinn Scholar and had the life-changing opportunity to conduct sociological research in Finland on urban planning and education. I’m also completing an honors thesis in Dr. Taylor’s Insomnia-Sleep Health Lab and previously led research on cardiac activity in Dr. Ricoy’s Lab. Additionally, I worked as a research intern at Vanderbilt University, creating 3D reconstructions of mitochondrial structures in aged tissue.

As an Undergraduate Research Ambassador and MCB Ambassador, I’m passionate about increasing access to research for underclassmen. Outside of academics, I work as a medical assistant, volunteer as a Crisis Victim Advocate, and enjoy exploring Tucson’s concerts, festivals, and markets with friends.

Paniella Irakoza

Microbiology Major

Hello! My name is Peniella Irakoze, and I am a senior majoring in Microbiology at the University of Arizona. I find great joy in research, so being part of the URA team is very rewarding as I help other students discover research opportunities and gain exposure to the scientific environment.

Some fun facts about me: I’ve interned at Cornell University, Boston University, and the University of Arizona as part of the NSF-Funded Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) from 2022 to 2024. During the academic year, I’ve conducted research at both the University of Arizona (Tempe campus) and Phoenix College. Over the past year and a half, I’ve undertaken four independent research projects, gaining valuable skills in research and science communication. Additionally, I had the opportunity to visit and learn at Brookhaven National Laboratory during a winter internship.

My future plans include participating in the Fulbright Program, for which I’m currently applying, and eventually pursuing graduate studies in Virology, focusing on HIV and Transposable Elements.

Mariam Rana

Physiology & Medical Sciences and Public Health Major, Leadership Studies & Practice Minor

Hello! My name is Mariam, and I’m a junior from Tucson, AZ, studying at the University of Arizona in the Franke Honors Program. I’m double majoring in Physiology & Medical Sciences and Public Health, with a minor in Leadership Studies and Practice.

On campus, I’m involved in several organizations: I’m a tour guide with the Arizona Ambassadors, a member of the Blue Chip Leadership Program, and part of the Co-Ed medical fraternity Phi Delta Epsilon. I’m also on the Wildcat Events Board (WEB) and serve as both a peer mentor and an ambassador for the Physiology department. My journey in research began in high school through the Bio5 KEYS research program, where I discovered a passion for research that continues to grow.

Some of my hobbies include hiking, painting, and running. In my free time, I love exploring Tucson’s local restaurants and spending quality time with friends and family.

Soleil Robinson

Biochemistry Major, Spanish Minor

Hello! My name is Soleil, and I’m a junior majoring in Biochemistry with a minor in Spanish. I’m passionate about medicine and plan to attend medical school after graduation.

In 2023, I participated in the Surf+ internship through Valleywise Health in Phoenix, where I conducted research on fluid resuscitation and shadowed physicians. This experience deepened my interest in medicine. Currently, I’m a research assistant in the Walti Lab, investigating how heat shock proteins—overexpressed during stress—help prevent the misfolding of proteins linked to Alzheimer’s Disease.

On campus, I serve as the secretary for the Minorities Association for Pre-Medical Students (MAPS), supporting underrepresented pre-med students. Outside of academics, I enjoy visiting local coffee shops and collecting vinyl records for my record player.

Simi Saha

Computer Science and Mathematics

Hello! My name is Simi, and I’m a senior majoring in Computer Science with a minor in Mathematics. I’m involved in Greek Life and the Honors College, and I work as an Internship Peer Coach and as an Undergraduate Research Ambassador. I plan to pursue a career as a software developer.


I find great fulfillment in helping students during different stages of their journey, providing personalized guidance to achieve the best results. I enjoy one-on-one appointments, where I get to discuss each student’s unique journey, potential, and the vast possibilities for securing internships. Whether it’s editing resumes, crafting cover letters, conducting mock interviews, or simply discussing interests to better understand career paths, I’m here to support students in every way possible. My message to all students is that “The possibilities are endless, and it’s never too late to start.” We’re here to help at every step!

Lexi Vance

Environmental Sciences Major (Soil, Air, Water Emphasis), Microbiology Minor

Hello! My name is Lexi, and I’m a senior majoring in Environmental Science with an emphasis in Soil, Air, and Water, and I’m minoring in Microbiology. My journey in research began in the summer of 2022 with the Undergraduate Biology Research Program (UBRP), and since then, I’ve been an undergraduate research assistant under Dr. Reynolds at The Environment, Exposure Science, and Risk Assessment Center (ESRAC).

In spring 2024, I worked as a directed research intern at the UA WEST Center, mentored by Dr. Ikner in her environmental microbiology lab. Over the summer of 2024, I interned through the Oak Ridge Institute for Science & Education (ORISE) at the National Laboratory for Agriculture and The Environment in Ames, IA.

On campus, I serve as an environmental science peer mentor, the executive vice president of the MycoCats club, and the Professional Development Chair for the Epsilon Eta Tau environmental fraternity. Outside of campus, I enjoy hiking with friends, visiting farmers markets, and playing double bass.