Careers in Science

Thursday, August 29, Noon-1 p.m.
Cornelia Hall, Room 108

The NSF S-STEM program is dedicated to addressing the national demand for skilled scientists, mathematicians, engineers, and technicians by supporting the retention and graduation of eligible students at Iona university. During this invitation-only event, scholars will have the opportunity to connect with faculty and staff while learning about the program's details and expectations. Please note that this session is not open to the public. We look forward to welcoming all NSF Scholars as we embark on this exciting journey together!

Study Skills and Time Management for Academic Success

Hester Fenemore, Assistant Director of Samuel Rudin Academic Resource Center

Thursday, September 12, 2024, Noon-1 p.m.
Cornelia Hall Room 108

This workshop will provide students with strategies to effectively manage their time and study efficiently. Students will learn how to prioritize tasks, establish a routine, and succeed academically.

Introduction to National Alliance of Research Associates Programs (NARAP)

Speaker: Dr. Keith Bradley, MD, FACEP (NARAP’s CEO/CMO)

Wednesday, 9/18, 12:30 p.m. (Cornelia Hall Room 108)

A Chemical Romance: The Power Couple that is Chemistry and Chemical Engineering

Thursday, September 26, Noon 
Cornelia Hall, Room 108

Speaker: Dr. J. Patrick Abulencia, Associate Professor and Graduate Program Director, Department of Chemical Engineering, Manhattan University

Synopsis

The disciplines of chemistry and chemical engineering are often viewed by many as distinct and disparate. Chemists primarily study molecular mechanisms, whilst chemical engineers study processes at the manufacturing scale. Despite these different viewpoints, knowledge of both provides a competitive advantage for those seeking employment in formulation-based industries such as cosmetics/personal care. In this talk, Dr. J. Patrick Abulencia will present his career path engaging these two disciplines, major decisions along the way, and lessons learned. He will conclude by discussing opportunities to earn an M.S. in chemical engineering at Manhattan University, with concentrations in cosmetics/personal care, biopharmaceuticals, and sustainable materials.

What Do You Need To Do To Get into Medical School?

Yourha Kang, Ph.D., Health Professions Advisor, Iona University

Wednesday, October 2, 2024, 12:30-1:30 p.m.
Cornelia Hall, Room 108

This discussion will focus on the basic requirements that a student will need in order to be a successful candidate for medical school including classes, grades, standardized test scores and more. These requirements are not only for medical school, but also apply to dental school, pharmacy, veterinary, and podiatry schools. A discussion of the timeline that should be followed will also be included

AI, Authenticity, and the Trump/Harris Phenomenon

Wednesday, October 2, 12:30 p.m. 
Romita Auditorium, Ryan Library

Speaker: Dr. Gunn Enli, Professor, University of Oslo

Abstract

The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) presents unprecedented challenges to the authenticity of political discourse. As AI-generated content proliferates, particularly on social media platforms, it outpaces the ability of traditional verification methods to keep up, necessitating a critical reassessment of 'mediated authenticity' theories (see Enli 2015). This talk explores the concept of 'mediated authenticity' as a negotiation of trust in the media, and by extension, political discourse. A key point of the discussion is that each new media technology requires a renegotiation of media trust. Examples will illustrate pivotal moments in this evolution, from the introduction of radio and television to the advent of online and social media, while also addressing current challenges in the age of AI. Furthermore, the talk will examine the media appeal of Donald Trump through the lens of seven authenticity illusions, highlighting the performative strategies that established Trump as an ‘authentic outsider’ in 2016 and how he continually reinforces this image.

Introduction to Northeast College of Health Sciences' Chiropractic Program

Wednesday, October 9, 12:30 - 1:30 p.m.

Speaker: Courtney Thompson, Admissions Counselor

Commercial Careers in the Chemical Industry: Business Careers for Chemists

Speaker: Matt Grandbois,  Vice President of Business Development at AirJoule, LLC

Thursday, 10/17, Noon 

Abstract

The chemistry enterprise is a vast landscape that provides opportunities for chemists to pursue careers that match their interests, skills, and ambitions. A very common, but often misunderstood, path for many chemists that pursue careers in the chemical industry is one that takes you away from the bench and into the dynamic and exciting world of business and commercial responsibility. In this talk, Matt Grandbois will share his personal transition from “the bench to the boardroom” and how he uses his chemistry training as a business professional within the exciting, and dynamic, chemical industry.

About Matt Grandbois

Matt Grandbois is Vice President of Business Development for AirJoule where he leads commercial activities for a business that utilizes Metal-Organic-Frameworks (MOFs) to provide pure, sustainable water through atmospheric water capture. Prior to this role, Matt spent 14 years working for Dow and DuPont, two of the world’s largest and most iconic chemical companies. After spending the first 4 years working as a research scientist, Matt transitioned to the commercial side of the business by first taking the role of Corporate Account Market Manager while stationed in South Korea before eventually holding additional roles in strategic marketing, investor relations, integration management, R&D portfolio management, and business development. Matt earned his B.A. in Chemistry (ACS Approved) from Augustana College, his Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry from the University of Minnesota, was a Fulbright Scholar to Norway studying the symbiotic relationship between science and society, and is a Fellow of the American Chemical Society.

Data Science & Society: Learn it and Lead it.

Speaker: Florence Hudson Executive Director of the Northeast Big Data Innovation Hub at Columbia University

Wednesday, October 23, 12:30 p.m. (Cornelia Hall Room 108)

Abstract

Data is an increasingly valuable element of every domain, discipline, decision, job and opportunity on this planet. The effective and responsible discovery, preparation, leverage and protection of data is more important every day. We will discuss the value of data and data science, share examples of how data is used for social good, and present the resources available from the Northeast Big Data Innovation Hub at Columbia University and its premier education and data literacy program - the National Student Data Corps (NSDC). The NSDC provides an open online portal and supportive learning community, with free access to over 1,000 data science resources, 100+ data science videos, from 3-minute flashcard videos on data science ethics and data science fundamentals, to masterclasses on using data in sports or medicine. There are also hands-on data science projects for which you can earn certificates for successful completion. We encourage you to leverage these resources to learn data science, and lead the responsible use of data in your future leadership opportunities.

 

STEM 4+1 and Noyce Scholarship Program

Wednesday, 10/30, 12:30-1:30 p.m., Cornelia Hall, Room 108

Iona’s National Science Foundation (NSF) Noyce Program offers scholarships to rising juniors and rising seniors who are in the accelerated 4+1 BS/MST or BA/MST programs for future mathematics, biology, or chemistry teachers. All interested students are invited to meet with faculty members and learn about this program.

An Introduction to Iona's Chemistry and Biochemistry Programs

Wednesday, 11/6, 12:30-1:30 p.m., Cornelia Hall, Room 108

This is a meeting for undeclared students to learn about Iona’s Chemistry and Biochemistry majors and programs. All interested students are invited to meet with faculty members and learn about these exciting programs.

An Introduction to New York College of Podiatric Medicine (NYCPM)

Thursday, November 7, Noon

"Intro to Python and Jupyter Notebook "

Moath Nuseir, Computer Science Adjunct Instructor, Iona University

Wednesday, November 13, 12:30 p.m.

Murphy Center, Room 201

Data Management: Pandas Library for Data Manipulation

Monday, November 18, 12:30 p.m.
Murphy Center, Room 122

Speaker

Sean Campbell '16, Software Engineer and Computer Science Adjunct Instructor, Iona University

To register, please email Dr. Smiljana Petrovic.

Hosted by the Data Science For Future Leaders Working Group with support from the National Science Foundation and the School of Arts and Science.

USJ Doctor of Pharmacy Program Overview

Speaker: Andrea Baggetta, Assistant Dean of Admissions & Student Experience, School of Pharmacy & PA Studies, University of Saint Joseph

Wednesday 11/20, 12:30 p.m., Cornelia Room 108

Synopsis

At this event, Ms. Baggetta will present information on USJ's Doctor of Pharmacy program including information about the curriculum, program schedule, student life, careers in pharmacy, and the admission requirements and process.

Learn more about the exciting and growing field of Cyber Security!

Date: Tuesday, January 30
Time: 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Location: Murphy 132

Register on Handshake: 1/30

High School Teacher Panel

Are you considering a career in education? Then join us at our upcoming panel featuring Iona alumni from our BS/MST program!

Date: Tuesday, February 20*
Time: 12:30 p.m.
Location: Cornelia 108

*Please note this will be on a Monday schedule.

Alumni Panel

Roseanne Lesser, BS/MST ‘18
Goshen Central School District

Sue Ellen Evangelista, BS/MST ‘18
White Plains High School 

Kelli Kinlen, BS/MST ‘22
Bedford Public Schools

Lauren Sica
Biology Teacher

Pizza will be served! For more information please contact Dr. Kristian, kkristian@iona.edu.

"Careers in Government: The Intersection of Science and Policy"

Speakers 

Vanessa Grisko, Special Advisor to the Under Secretary for Science & Innovation; 
Amanda Lounsbury, Ph.D., Energy-Water Science and Energy Program Manager

Wednesday, February 28, 2024, 12:30 p.m., Cornelia Room 108

Vanessa Grisko

Special Advisor to the Under Secretary for Science & Innovation

Vanessa joined the U.S. Department of Energy in January 2021 as the Special Assistant to the Secretary's Chief of Staff. She has served as the Special Assistant in the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy and most recently as Special Advisor to the Undersecretary for Science and Innovation. Prior to joining DOE, Vanessa was the Biden Harris Deputy Distributed Director in Florida, and National Spanish Outreach Manager for the Senator Bernie Sanders presidential campaign. Prior to campaigns, she worked in public relations and sustainability consulting in Chicago helping real estate portfolios achieve energy efficiency goals. Vanessa is a native of Marco Island, FL and holds a B.S. in Environmental Science from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.  

Amanda Lounsbury

Energy-Water Science and Energy Program Manager
 

Amanda is the Energy-Water Science and Energy Program Manager which sits between the Office of Water Power Technologies and the Undersecretary for Science and Innovation. She joined DOE as an AAAS Science Technology & Policy fellow focused on using systems approaches rooted in science and policy to help solve some of today’s most pressing social and environmental problems. Amanda holds a B.A. in physics from Occidental College, M.S. in Environmental Engineering from Stanford University and Ph.D. in Chemical and Environmental Engineering from Yale University. Amanda was awarded a Fulbright fellowship to study community participatory water treatment systems in Ghana. She completed post-doctoral studies at Tel Aviv University and Hebrew University, focused on sustainable wastewater reuse and transboundary water issues in Israel, Palestine and Jordan. 

Speaker: Nick Florio, MD (Iona Class 2011)

"So You Want to be a Physician”

Monday, March 4, 12:30 p.m., Cornelia Hall Room 108

Dr. Nick Florio is a board-certified family physician with White Plains Hospital Physician Associates in Yorktown Heights, NY. Dr. Florio received his Bachelor of Science degree from Iona University and then went on to earn his medical degree from the Stony Brook University School of Medicine. He completed his residency in Family Medicine at Overlook Medical Center in Summit, NJ. He has served as a clinical assistant professor at The Larner College of Medicine at The University of Vermont and at Ross University School of Medicine.

"Preparing for Iona Scholars Day: Designing and Presenting Your Research Poster"

Speaker: Dr. Carrie Underwood, Director of the Trio McNair program, Iona University

Wednesday. March 20, 12:30 p.m., Cornelia 108 or Zoom

This session will focus on how to prepare for Iona Scholars Day. We will begin the session by discussing how to create and design a research poster, and we will conclude the session by discussing how to present your research poster, focusing on how to develop your "elevator pitch" for your research project.

Dr. Carrie Underwood

Dr. Carrie Underwood is the director of the Trio McNair program at Iona University. Dr. Underwood received her Bachelor of Science in psychology and women's studies from the University of Tennessee, and then went on to earn her Master of Arts in Experimental Psychology and Ph.D. in Psychological and Brain Sciences from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. As the director of the McNair Scholars program, she works with students from diverse backgrounds to help them prepare for graduate school.

Watch Now: "Preparing for Iona Scholars Day: Designing and Presenting Your Research Poster"

If you were unable to make it, please watch the recording of the presentation below.

"How Color Changed the World"

SPONSORED BY THE N.Y. ACS ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY TOPICAL GROUP

Speaker: Mary Virginia Orna, Professor of Chemistry, Emerita, College of New Rochelle 

Monday, March 25, at 12:30 p.m. (Cornelia 108)

Zoom Option

If you would like to attend this talk via Zoom, please complete this brief RSVP form.

Abstract

Color has been an exciting and enjoyable part of human life ever since the color-sensitive eye evolved over a million years ago. However, the junction between color and chemistry, and color and history, is of more recent origin. The first recorded use of chemistry to manufacture a color is the stunning set of cave paintings found in the Grotte Chauvet in Southern France. Executed over 32,000 years ago (20,000 years earlier than Lascaux!), they are a testimony to early humans’ ability to create beauty and to engage in abstract thinking. This talk traces the history of color usage as a chemical endeavor from the earliest records to the present day focusing on four major areas: fashion, pharmaceuticals, food, and fun. It is a trajectory peppered with stories to help us understand the mystery of color as a universal experience and phenomenon; its chemical history, as you shall see, even changed the course of history in the 20th century. This talk is based on her popular book, “The Chemical History of Color” (Springer, 2013).

About Mary Virginia Orna

Sister Mary Virginia Orna, O.S.U. (Order of Saint Ursula) is Professor of Chemistry, Emerita, College of New Rochelle. She is also former Director of Educational Services at the Chemical Heritage Foundation and former Publications Coordinator of the Journal of Chemical Education. She received her Ph.D. in analytical chemistry from Fordham University. She has lectured and published widely in the areas of color chemistry and archaeological chemistry. Her articles have appeared in the Journal of Chemical Education, Color Research and Application, Studies in Conservation, Analytical Chemistry, Microchemical Journal, Journal of Biological Chemistry, American Chemical Society monographs, and various other journals. She has also authored numerous book chapters and encyclopedia articles, eight books and edited thirteen others, including The Lost Elements: The Periodic Table’s Shadow Side” (Oxford University Press, 2015). Her most recent book is “March of the Pigments” (Royal Society of Chemistry, 2022). She is a 1984 recipient of the Chemical Manufacturing Association’s Catalyst Award for excellence in college chemistry teaching, the 1989 CASE (Council for the Advancement and Support of Education) New York State Professor of the Year and National Gold Medalist Award, a recipient of the 1989 Merck Innovation Award, the 1996 Western Connecticut ACS Section's Visiting Scientist Award and the 1996 recipient of the James Flack Norris Award for Outstanding Achievement in the Teaching of Chemistry. She received the American Chemical Society’s 1999 George C. Pimentel Award in Chemical Education, the 2008 Henry Hill Award, the 2009 ACS Award for Volunteer Service, and the ACS HIST Award in 2021. She was a Fulbright Fellow in Israel (1994-95) where she lectured at The Hebrew University, The Weizmann Institute of Science and Shenkar College of Textile Technology. She also did research on ancient middle-eastern artifacts in collaboration with the Israel Antiquities Authority, the Israel Museum and the Edelstein Center for the Analysis of Middle Eastern Textiles and Related Artifacts. As a hobby, she enjoys constructing crossword puzzles and has contributed over two dozen puzzles to the Sunday and daily New York Times.
Rev. 10/23

"IP Basics for Researchers and Entrepreneurs"

Speaker: Andrew Wasson, Intellectual Property Lawyer

Tuesday, March 26, at Noon (Hynes Institute)

Intellectual property plays a critical role in university-level research and entrepreneurship. This lunch-and-learn will review the foundations of intellectual property law, including the differences between patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets. In addition, we will examine actual patents and discuss how patents are procured and enforced. The goal is to become conversant in the language of intellectual property.  

Register: 3/26

Wednesday, April 10, 12:30 p.m., Cornelia Hall Room 108

"Behind the scenes of a career in scientific publishing and science communication at Cell Press"

Publishing is an integral but challenging part of conducting scientific research. Successful scientific communication is an important part of science in the laboratory as well as the conversion of laboratory research to the real world. In this talk, Michelle Muzzio (Iona University, Project Symphony Dr. Lee Lab, Class of 2015) deputy scientific editor at iScience, will give an overview on the process of preparing and publishing manuscripts, with some tips for effective preparation and presentation of research from the angle of effective scientific communication. Throughout the interactive  discussion, she will focus on what brought her to a career in scientific editing and well as the skills needed and gained in pursuing this alternative career in science. 

Please join us on Thursday, April 18, 2024 for the 15th annual Iona Scholars Day! 

Learn More: Iona Scholars Day

Speaker: Michael Foti, DO (Class of 2014)

"My Path to Becoming a Physician & Educator"

Monday, April 22, 2024, 12:30 p.m.
Cornelia Hall, Room 108

I am an Internist who trained at Greenwich Hospital/Yale New Haven Health and was the recipient of the Resident Physician Patient Experience Award for 2 consecutive years (2021, 2022). This is an award voted on by all departmental staff of the hospital.

Since graduating, I have had experience in both Academic Medicine and General Internal Medicine. My primary interest is Academic Medicine, and I am currently a Clinical Assistant Professor of Internal Medicine at Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine. Primary responsibilities of this role include participation in the planning, execution, and delivery of the Department of Primary Care Courses and activities. I am also the Coordinator of the Standardized Patient Program at Touro COM. Primary responsibilities of this role include primary oversight of the Standardized Patient (SP) program, particularly in the coordination, recruitment, management, training, and assessment of the standardized patient actors.

I previously worked as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Clinical Specialties at NYIT COM. Responsibilities included Internal Medicine lectures, case-based learning course, clinical skills course, and attending all meetings/conferences. I was also the Associate Course Director for the Foundations of Osteopathic Medicine curriculum at NYIT COM. This role’s responsibilities included course planning, curriculum design, examination content review, and attending all curricular staff meetings.

I have a strong interest in affecting positive change in medical student education at the curricular and policy level. I am also a member of the National Faculty of the NBOME in the Clinical Department of Internal Medicine, Geriatric Medicine and Dermatology.

Thursday, August 31, Noon-1 p.m.
Cornelia Hall, Room 108

The NSF S-STEM Scholars Program contributes to the national need for well-educated scientists, mathematicians, engineers, and technicians by supporting the retention and graduation of eligible students at Iona University. In this kick-off session, incoming NSF S-STEM Scholars are invited to meet with faculty members and learn about the details of the program and its expectations.

Speaker: Stephen George, group vice president of analytics at Zeta Global

Tuesday, September 12, Noon-1 p.m.
LaPenta School of Business, Room 201

 

Please join Iona’s Chief Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging Officer (DEIB), Dr. Alison Munsch, for a talk with Stephen George, group vice president of analytics at Zeta Global. Together, they will discuss careers in analytics, Mr. George’s experiences in this field, as well as the importance of DEIB at Zeta Global and its “Bridge Builders Program.”

Register: AI, Analytics and DEIB

Tuesday, September 26, 2023, Noon-1 p.m.
Cornelia Hall, Room 108

This is a meeting for undeclared students to learn about Iona’s Biology programs. All interested students are invited to meet with faculty members and learn about these exciting programs.

Yourha Kang, Ph.D., Health Professions Advisor, Iona University

Thursday, September 28, 2023, Noon-1 p.m.
Cornelia Hall Room 108

Pre-Health Advising at Iona

This discussion will focus on the basic requirements that a student will need in order to be a successful candidate for medical school including classes, grades, standardized test scores and more. These requirements are not only for medical school, but also apply to dental school, pharmacy, veterinary, and podiatry schools. A discussion of the timeline that should be followed will also be included

Thursday, September 28, 2-3 p.m.
ACS Webinar

Laura Howes (Chemical & Engineering News) and a panel of special guests will make their predictions for who will receive this year’s Nobel Prize in Chemistry and why. Enjoy a lively discussion about why prize winners are often polymaths, whether hot topics in chemistry like Artificial Intelligence and the COVID-19 pandemic will impact this year’s decision-making process, and which fields of science (and scientists) are historically underrepresented and should be considered for future awards.

Michelle Muzzio from the class of 2015 will be included on the panel. Michelle worked with Dr. Lee in her research lab and is deputy editor for iScience.

Register for free now: 9/28

Friday, September 29, 2023, 3-4:30 p.m.
Webinar

The National Student Data Corps (NSDC) is delighted to invite you, your friends, students, and colleagues to the September 2023 Data Science & Health Career Panel! This virtual event will highlight the wide range of educational and professional opportunities available in data science, health, and scientific research fields.

Join us on Friday, September 29, 2023, 3-4:30 p.m. to hear professionals and researchers discuss their educational and professional experiences in data and health sciences.

The following panelists will be featured at this event:

Carsten Eickhoff, University of Tübingen – Germany

Carsten is a Professor of Medical Data Science and Computer Science at the University of Tübingen, where his lab develops machine learning and natural language processing techniques with the goal of improving quality of medical care.

Prior to joining Tübingen, he was the Manning Assistant Professor of Medical and Computer Science at Brown University. He received degrees from the University of Edinburgh and TU Delft and was a postdoctoral fellow at ETH Zurich and Harvard University. Carsten is a founder and board member of several deep technology startups in the health sector that strive to improve quality of life for patients.

Kerrie Holley, Google Cloud – Healthcare and Life Sciences Industry Solutions

Kerrie Holley is an executive and expert in artificial intelligence (AI), information technology (IT), and healthcare. He has built an engineering team of software, AI, & DevOps engineers, Ph.Ds., scientists and data scientists to apply leading edge technologies in healthcare. Kerrie launched a patent program, started an Academy of Technology, and is creating a robust career path to grow the best technical talent. Prior to Google, Kerrie was Optum’s 1st Technical Fellow and advanced UnitedHealth Group’s (UHG) missions in machine learning and deep learning, IoT, genomics, blockchain and cybersecurity. Kerrie was also a VP and CTO at Cisco, and an IBM Fellow and Master Inventor, holding multiple technology patents.

Jo Johnston, Dimensional Insight

While completing her PhD in experimental particle physics at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Dr. Jo Johnston found passion in software engineering and real-world problem solving. Jo applies her technical skills and passions to practical issues at Dimensional Insight as a software engineer, building tools that help users to process and analyze large amounts of data. These tools are often leveraged in fields that range from healthcare to food and beverage distribution logistics. Jo has also led and contributed to the development of statistical frameworks and a real-time data monitoring website.

Register to Attend: 9/29

Marissa Sannella, MBA, CPA, MST
Senior Director of Academic Support and Student Success

Thursday, October 5, 2023, Noon-1 p.m.
Cornelia Hall Room 108

This workshop will provide students with strategies to effectively manage their time and study efficiently. Students will learn how to prioritize tasks, establish a routine, and succeed academically.

Tuesday, October 10, Noon- 1p.m., Murphy 132

This is a meeting for undeclared students to learn about Iona’s Computer Science majors and programs. All interested students are invited to meet with faculty members and learn about these exciting programs.

Sean Davis '14, BS in Physics

Thursday, October 12 2023, Noon-1 p.m.
Cornelia Hall Room 108

Sean Davis ('14 B.S. Physics) leads the PepsiCo Labs effort to drive impact by scaling innovative start up solutions globally at PepsiCo.

Based in Chicago, Sean has nine years of experience in IT, supply chain, and finance and control functions across PepsiCo’s North America, LATAM, & Europe sectors.

Sean’s ability to navigate the organization and connect cross-sector and functional teams enables PepsiCo Labs to drive transformation and innovation of PepsiCo’s business at scale.

Speaker: Ian Chambers, Ph.D., Postdoctoral Fellow, Laboratory for Neural Redox Biology and Homeostatic Transcription, Burke Neurological Institute

Thursday, October 19, Noon-1 p.m.
Cornelia, Room 108

My Path to Being a Neuroscientist

Ian is a post-doctoral fellow in the Ratan Lab researching the role of iron and heme homeostasis in neurodegeneration at the Burke Neurological Institute / Weill Cornell Medicine. His work aims to further elucidate molecular mechanisms post intracranial hemorrhage and related models / disease states, as well as investigate therapeutic targets capable of protecting neurons against ferroptotic death.

Ian’s career path has been quite a unique one, starting with his studies as marine biologist from the University of Miami, to completing his PhD at the University of Maryland with a project on reproduction, to finally now studying ferroptosis in the brain at the Burke Neurological Institute! His CSI presentation therefore will highlight how he found his way across many different disciplines and hurdles on this winding road of life. His story will also weave in some of his dissertation project from UMD, on characterizing novel genetic ablations in multi drug resistance proteins (MRPs) to uncover a novel function for heme exporters essential for reproduction {Chambers et al 2021, PNAS} as well some of his brand new and exciting unpublished findings as a postdoc in the Ratan lab on neuroprotection via HDAC inhibition.

Monday, October 23, 12:30-1:30 p.m.
Cornelia Hall, Room 108

This is a meeting for undeclared students to learn about Iona’s Chemistry and Biochemistry majors and programs. All interested students are invited to meet with faculty members and learn about these exciting programs.

Tuesday, October 24, Noon-1 p.m.
Cornelia Hall, Room 108

Iona’s National Science Foundation (NSF) Noyce Program offers scholarships to rising juniors and rising seniors who are in the accelerated 4+1 BS/MST or BA/MST programs for future mathematics, biology, or chemistry teachers. All interested students are invited to meet with faculty members and learn about this program.

Wednesday, October 25 at 12:30 p.m.
Cornelia, Room 108

This is a meeting for undeclared students to learn about Iona’s Mathematics and Physics majors majors and programs. All interested students are invited to meet with faculty members and learn about these exciting programs.

Mathematical Play: The Game of Cycles

Speaker: Benjamin Gaines, Ph.D.

Wednesday, November 1, 12:30 p.m.
Cornelia Room 108

A combinatorial game is a two player game that has a well-defined ruleset and no element of chance. This means that if both players play optimally, the winner can be determined before the game even begins! The Game of Cycles is a combinatorial game played on any simple connected planar graph, introduced by Su (2020).  In this talk I will introduce the basics of combinatorial games, the rules for the Game of Cycles, and the results obtained this summer in joint work with Alessio Campione (Class of 2025) on which player has a winning strategy on various classes of gameboard.

Genetic Counseling: An Expanding Field Combining Science and Education

Speaker: Rebecca Kelly, MS, Genetic Counselor, Mayo Clinic

Thursday, November 30, Noon-1 p.m.
Cornelia, Room 108

Details coming soon!

Rebecca Kelly is a Laboratory Genetic Counselor for the Mayo Clinic Division of Hematopathology, where she specializes in “benign” hematological conditions. In this role, her primary responsibilities include curating genetic variants, reviewing genetic testing orders, and assisting other healthcare professionals with test selection and interpretation of results. She also enjoys mentorship opportunities, and works with prospective students to help them gain exposure to the field of Genetic Counseling. Rebecca attained her Master of Science in Genetic Counseling from Kean University in 2022. Prior to graduate school, she worked in a clinical genetics laboratory for six years, which is where she initially discovered the field. Her talk will also highlight how she navigated her early professional career after completing her undergraduate degree and before learning about Genetic Counseling.

Finding a Career that Combines A Knowledge of Science with a Passion for Beauty

Wednesday, February 8, 12:30 p.m., Cornelia 108

Speaker: Jackie Martinez ’16, ’17MBA

Jackie Martinez ‘16, ‘17MBA is currently a Global Communications Manager at The Estée Lauder Companies (ELC), where she supports integrated communications for the company’s Global Research, Product and Innovation and Global Supply Chain functions. In this role, she is responsible for amplifying ELC’s research & development efforts and reputation-driving environmental and social impact efforts such as responsible sourcing, green chemistry and sustainable packaging. At the company, she’s also served as the communications lead and business alignment co-lead for ELC’s employee resource group, Hispanic Connections. Prior to joining ELC, Jackie worked at Edelman, supporting medical and scientific communications within the agency’s Bioscience Communications team.

Jackie graduated from Iona University with a BS in Chemistry in 2016 and an MBA in management with an advanced certificate in International Business in 2017. At Iona, she was in the Honors program, a Patrick J. Martin Foundation Scholar, and an undergraduate researcher in Dr. Lee’s Project Symphony lab. Jackie was also an active member of Gamma Lambda Rho sorority, a resident assistant, completed two study abroad programs in Poland and Italy, and traveled to Bolivia as part of the Iona in Mission program.

"Searching for Life and Habitability in our Solar System"

Friday, February 10 at noon, Henry Lecture Hall (LaPenta Business School)

Abstract

We recently established that Mars lost an ocean’s worth of water, while the Curiosity rover has recently detected organics on the Martian surface and in the atmosphere. Venus may have been once covered by water, while organic rich oceans have been suggested to exist under the surface of Europa, Enceladus and on Titan. If these planets/moons had a rich chemical and diverse past, how much of these biomarkers were lost to space, and how much are currently available for life? Are there sub-surface habitable niches connecting now with the atmosphere?

High-resolution spectroscopy is a powerful method to address fundamental questions of planetary evolution and habitability, by permitting to probe several key volatile and organic species, together with their isotopic abundance ratios. For example, in the last decade we obtained the most comprehensive search for organic material in the Martian atmosphere and we are now sending powerful probes to Venus, to the Jupiter-system, and beyond, permitting us to probe these planets/moons with unprecedented sensitivity. With the recent arrival of the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) to the L2 point, a new window now opens for the exploration of the solar system and beyond. In particular when probing the rich molecular infrared wavelengths, which are notably noisy when employing ambient temperature observatories, yet provide sensitive access to many organics and volatiles.

In this talk, I will present our latest discoveries on Mars with ground-based observatories and with ExoMars/TGO of Mars, our planned observations with JWST of Europa and Enceladus, and our latest findings with SOFIA, ALMA and other ground-based observatories on Venus, comets and other solar system bodies.

Dr. Geronimo Villanueva, NASA Goddard Space Flight Center

Dr. Geronimo Villanueva is a planetary scientist at NASA-Goddard Space Flight Center who specializes in the search for organic molecules on Mars and on icy bodies. He is Co-Investigator of the ExoMars/TGO mission, Co-Investigator of the Comet Interceptor mission, and leader for Mars and Ocean Worlds studies (GTO) for the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST). He also serves as Science and Management advisor to several observatories, including Keck, NASA-IRTF and ALMA. In recognition to his work on small bodies, the International Astronomical Union (IAU) named minor planet '9724' after Dr. Villanueva, while the American Astronomical Society (AAS) in 2015 honored him with the Urey Prize (young planetary scientist of the year).

Since completing his Ph.D. studies at the Max-Planck-Institute for Solar-System Research in Germany in 2004, Dr. Villanueva has participated in many projects at three space agencies, NASA, ESA (European Space Agency) and DLR (German Aerospace Agency), with a broad range of research experience in planetary, exploration and Space sciences. He is a strong advocate for Space Exploration and Astronomy, participating in numerous public outreach activities, and chosen as Science communicator by the US State Department and Shakira's foundation 'Pies Descalzos' to promote science in developing regions.

"Dentistry: the Business of Art and Science"

Wednesday, February 15, 12:30 p.m.
Cornelia Hall 108

Loreta Geneviciute ‘10, DDS

Loreta Geneviciute moved from Europe to New York City in 2005. She graduated high school in 2006 with a presidential award for academic excellence and subsequently attended Iona University (then Iona College) where she majored in Chemistry and graduated with Summa Cum Laude in 2010.

After the completion of her Bachelor of Science degree, Loreta pursued a DDS degree at New York University College of Dentistry.

Inspired by the life changing nature of complex dental rehabilitations, she applied and was accepted to an honors program in prosthodontics- a field devoted to extensive dental reconstructions of partially and completely edentulous patients. Motivated by her passion for this field, Loreta subsequently pursued a three-year post-graduate specialty training in prosthodontics at the Jonathan and Maxine Ferencz Advanced Education Program at NYU, graduating the program in 2017 with the departmental award for academic achievement.

Loreta has since been practicing dentistry in New York City and is currently transitioning to practice in Livingston. N.J.

When she is not practicing dentistry, she spends time with her husband Ben, daughter Olivia Nida, and her nine-year old rottweiler by the name of Ike Marine Dirty Paws.

"A Career in Finance and Landing Your First Job"

Wednesday, March 1, 5 p.m.
Henry Auditorium, LaPenta School of Business, 105

Cathy McCabe (’85)

Gaels Go Further Mentoring Programs is excited to welcome Cathy McCabe ’85 back to campus as we explore what led her to a career in finance and what advice she would give students who are beginning to think about their first job after college. During her 33-year career at TIAA, Cathy and her team helped more than 1.5 million individuals achieve and exceed their financial goals. She is a cited media and industry expert, speaking on a variety of topics from women’s financial empowerment to preparing for retirement and more. Light refreshments will be served.

Wednesday, 3/8: Cannabinoids, Wearable Tech, and Entrepreneurship as a Ph.D. Student

Cornelia 108, 12:30-1:30 p.m.

John M. Toribio '20

John M. Toribio is a first-generation student who was born to a Dominican family in the Bronx. In 2020, he graduated with a BS degree from Iona with double majors in ACS-Certified Chemistry and Physics. Currently, he is a third-year Ph.D. Student in the Polymer Division of the Chemistry Department at the University of Connecticut. His research involves synthesizing, analyzing, and utilizing small molecules and polymers for a few different applications, including electrochromic polymers for active camouflage and poly(cannabinoid)s as sustainable bio-based materials for a vast range of applications. Poly(cannabinoid)s are a brand-new platform of polymers developed by John's major advisor at UConn, Professor Gregory Sotzing. Additionally, John is launching a startup to commercialize smart clothing with embedded health sensors, antennas, speakers, and other features. In this talk, John will give an overview of his work and discuss his experience as an undergrad and path towards obtaining a Ph.D.

Thursday, March 9: University of St. Joseph Doctor of Pharmacy Information Session

Cornelia Hall, Room 108, Noon

Speaker: Andrea Baggetta, Assistant Dean of Admissions & Student Experience

Wednesday, 3/22, 12:30 p.m.: Navigating your STEM Career

Ricardo Oliveira '16

Ricardo graduated from Iona in 2016 with a B.S. in ACS Certified Chemistry and then earned a M.Eng. in Chemical Engineering at Cornell University in 2017. While at Iona, Ricardo was a member of Dr. Sunghee Lee’s research group Project Symphony. During his higher education journey, he interned at two startup companies, which helped him identify areas of passion and a future career path. He now works as a Research & Development Engineer at Nouryon, a specialty chemical manufacturer that provides solutions to various industries around the world. At Nouryon, Ricardo supports product scale-up development in R&D, consults within the corporate Sustainability Team, and leads a company-wide career development and networking program called “BOOST.”

Wednesday, 3/29: The Bilayers of Nursing

Cornelia Hall, Room 108, 12:30 - 1:30 p.m.

Jacqueline Denver ‘17

Jacqueline Denver ‘17 graduated Iona University with a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry. She went on to pursue the field of nursing, taking the accelerated BSN program at Quinnipiac University and graduating in 2018. Jacqui started her nursing career in the Emergency Department following the completion of her program and went on to become a Clinical Nurse Leader and Nurse Manager during the COVID-19 pandemic for Hartford Healthcare. She then moved on to a position at the system level of the Hartford Healthcare involving patient logistics and facility movement of patients across hospitals and across the state.

In her talk, “The Bilayers of Nursing,” she will explore all the different opportunities that were presented to her throughout her career. She will also discuss how her work in research and in the biochemistry field with Dr. Lee in Project Symphony at Iona University have supported her and paved the way for future opportunities in pharmaceutical clinical trial research.

Tuesday, April 4, Noon
Cornelia Hall, Room 108

Talk with New York Power Authority and New York Transco professionals about New York’s clean energy transition and the many exciting career opportunities in the energy and electric transmission industry. Learn about how transmission infrastructure will impact climate change and associated energy careers.

Visit propelnyenergy.com to learn more about a public-private collaboration to bring clean, reliable energy, jobs and economic development to benefit all New Yorkers.

Becoming and Practicing as a Physician Assistant

Wednesday, April 5, 12:30 p.m.,  Cornelia Room 108

Speaker: Micahel Guzzardi ’14, Biology and Economics

"From D1 Football to Digital Nerve Repairs"

Monday, April 24, 12:30 p.m., Cornelia Hall 108

Speaker: Jacob I. Jabbour, DO ‘09

Jacob I. Jabbour, DO ‘09 graduated Iona University with a bachelor’s degree in biology.  In his four years at Iona he was a defensive tackle for the football team which included winning a MAAC championship in 2007.  He went on to pursue his medical degree at Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine (NYC) graduating in 2013.  Dr. Jake completed an internship in Secaucus, NJ, followed by General Surgery residency in Miami, FL.  His non-traditional path in training included 2 gap years practicing general medicine in NYC and general surgery in Miami prior to specializing in hand surgery.  He completed a fellowship in hand surgery with training in microsurgery in the Division of Plastic Surgery at The University of Mississippi Medical Center in 2022.  That fall, Dr. Jake started his dream career when he began practice as a hand surgeon as part of Hartford Healthcare Medical Group.  His practice is located at The Hand Center at the Hospital of Central Connecticut in New Britain, CT.

“Do the best you can with what you have” is his mantra.  Dr. Jake is happy to share his insights gleaned from his path to becoming a hand surgeon.  His other passions in life include his wife Trish (Iona ‘09) and their daughters Jacqueline and Claire. 

"Nothing survives transcription, nothing doesn't survive transcription"

The goal of large language model research is to accurately mimic human linguistic competence. But such models are trained not on language itself, but on transcriptions of language in various forms. In this talk, I argue that language functions only because it cannot be perfectly transcribed, focusing on forms of language (literary and quotidian) that foreground emptiness, blank space, and silence. I discuss the implications of this conclusion on the artistic uses of language models, particularly in my own work as a poet.

Allison Parrish

 

Allison Parrish is a computer programmer, poet, and game designer whose teaching and practice address the unusual phenomena that blossom when language and computers meet. She is an Assistant Arts Professor at NYU's Interactive Telecommunications Program. She was named "Best Maker of Poetry Bots" by the Village Voice in 2016, and her zine of computer-generated poems called "Compasses" received an honorary mention in the 2021 Prix Ars Electronica. Allison is the co-creator of the board game Rewordable (Clarkson Potter, 2017) and author of several books, including @Everyword: The Book (Instar, 2015) and Articulations (Counterpath, 2018). Her poetry has recently appeared in BOMB Magazine and Strange Horizons.

Watch Now: "Nothing Survives Transcription, Nothing Doesn’t Survive Transcription"

"21st-Century Citizenship: What It Takes To Be Engaged in a Data-Saturated World"

Scott B. Weingart

Data mediates our lives. We can’t apply for a job, swipe right on a date, or even buy groceries without our data being fed into some algorithm that will be used to nudge our decisions or to make decisions about us. If we don’t understand these processes and even sometimes if we do we’ll be at their mercy. Tomorrow’s citizens and leaders must remain savvy to stay afloat. A liberal arts education, properly integrated with data science and its criticisms, can set the foundation for informed and engaged citizenship in our data-saturated world.

Scott B. Weingart is a historian who publishes at the intersection of computational methods and the history of knowledge. In his capacity as a scholar, he maintains a research affiliation with the Centre for Data, Culture & Society at the University of Edinburgh. Weingart also serves as the Chief Data Officer of the National Endowment for the Humanities. The views he will express at this event do not represent those of the federal government.

Watch Now: "21st-Century Citizenship: What It Takes To Be Engaged in a Data-Saturated World"