Executive Board

Hi, my name is Emily! I’m a third-year BSGP PhD student here at OSU. I study the neuroscience of sleep in Dr. Ingiosi’s lab, focusing on astrocyte mitochon STEM education and communication is one of my greatest passions. My goal is to become a PI and professor to mentor future scientists and help grow the same love of STEM that my mentors fostered in me! As co-president of GWIS, I’m excited to give back to the organization that’s given me so many great opportunities and aim to create programs that focused on mentorship, education, and career development to uplift fellow women in STEM.

Hi, I’m Zianne! I’m a fourth-year PhD student in the MCDB Graduate Program at The Ohio State University. In Dr. Matthew Gorr’s lab, I study how e-cigarette aerosol exposure impacts cardiopulmonary and reproductive health. Outside of research, I’m passionate about outreach and community engagement, particularly making science more accessible to the youth and the broader Columbus community. As Co-President, I hope to create opportunities that inspire future scientists, encourage critical thinking, and foster an inclusive and supportive community for women in STEM.

Check back later for Helena's bio!

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Hello, my name is Alex LaFollette, and I am the treasurer for GWIS Central Ohio. I am originally from Boise, Idaho where I completed my undergrad as a Bronco from Boise State University with a bachelor’s in biology with emphasis on molecular, cellular, and biomedical sciences. Currently, I reside in Columbus, Ohio where I am now a Buckeye from OSU. I am in my third year as a PhD student in the MCDB program. My home department is in neurological surgery where I study traumatic brain injuries and how they may lead to dementia later in life. I look forward to working closely with women in STEM throughout my duration serving as a board member for the local chapter of GWIS.​​

Hi! My name is Afia! I'm a second year Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology (MCDB) graduate student. I'm excited to be a part of GWIS and reach our wider university community. I think science communication, networking and representation are all really important and GWIS does those quite well. Looking forward to the year ahead!​

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Hi! I’m Shubhangi, a third year PhD student in the Ohio State Biochemistry Program (OSBP) and an avid science lover. I’m excited to be part of the GWIS community and serve as General Body Coordinator. I joined GWIS to connect with like-minded women and contribute to a community that uplifts and empowers future scientists. In my spare time, I enjoy reading, drawing, and exploring Columbus.​​

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I'm Electra, a fifth year PhD student in the MCDB program. I look forward to continuing to serve as the mentorship chair for GWIS this year. I'm always excited to help K-12 and undergrads learn about science and how to shape their careers no matter where they started from. I grew up in Texas and moved to Ohio to earn my PhD here at OSU. I enjoy playing video games, photography, painting, reading-- and if I'm feeling really crazy-- editing my dissertation in my free time. ​​

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Hello, my name is Aviana Smith and I am a second year Biophysics PhD student. I received my degrees in Physics with an Applied Mathematics minor and Performance (Vocal) from Boise State University in 2024. I am really looking forward to helping GWIS in providing goal-oriented professional development workshops and supporting science locally through volunteering/ mentoring pre-graduate studies students. I love volunteering, and I am so excited to set down some roots in my new community here. 

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Hi, name is Virginia. I am currently a third year graduate student in the Ohio State Biochemistry Program (OSBP). I have always been passionate about science outreach and fostering a welcoming environment in STEM. As the outreach co-chair I hope to encourage this environment through the events we hold as an organization. I enjoy spending time with friends, building legos, trying new foods with my fiancé and learning new hobbies!

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Hello, brilliant minds! I am Deepthi, a third-year PhD candidate in the Ohio State Biochemistry Program (OSBP). At Dr. Christopher Jaroniec's lab, I am learning more about how use solid state NMR to get information about complex biological macromolecular systems. I am excited to serve in my role as PR chair especially because I enjoy connecting people and communicating ideas. I feel the importance of having opportunities to connect, and I aim to increase participation and make GWIS more visible and accessible to the broader graduate student community during my time here. Email me at nambiar.29@osu.edu and let's talk!