Ryan started out at UC Merced as a computer science major, but later switched to mechanical engineering because, while he loved computer science, he gained an interest in building cool robots for competitions and doing research on interesting topics like utilizing the cameras on drones to optimize crop yields. He wanted to work on more applied projects in the real world as opposed to computer work all day.His interest in STEM was sparked by an inspiring computer science teacher in high school. During break periods, the teacher’s door would be open for students to stop by and ask questions about the class, STEM and careers. Ryan says, “This warm introduction to the world of STEM guided my initial decision to major in it, and I haven’t regretted it since. I’m still learning so much about the field, and I hope that someday I can contribute back something amazing to push the boundaries of scientific knowledge.”

Over the summer at LLNL, Ryan worked in the Biosciences and Biotechnology Division under a project that had to do with the microorganisms that live in your gut. The microorganisms living in your gut play a huge role in keeping the body healthy and functioning. But they can also play a role in causing obesity, diabetes, bowel disease, and several brain disorders, such as Parkinson’s disease, autism, and many more, have been linked to altered gut microbiomes. If we can understand how the human gut microbiome works, hopefully we can someday cure some of the detrimental conditions caused by it.

Through data analysis and gene classification, Ryan built a metagenomics tool that processes data and machine learning algorithms to help other researchers in the project gain a better understanding of the human gut microbiome. The goal was to strengthen and accelerate neuro-disease prediction capabilities relating to the gut without the need for more costly clinical tests with human subjects.

This was Ryan’s first internship and he thoroughly enjoyed it.  He was impressed with the variety of applications for his Computer Science and Mechanical Engineering skills at the Lab and with the caliber of the scientists, engineers and fellow interns. The highlight of his summer was meeting his mentors, Nisha Mulakken and Jose Manuel Marti Martinez and LLNL Director Kim Budil. Ryan would also like to extend his sincere thanks to his mentors for making this fellowship experience unforgettable. From their guidance during his intitial onboarding at LLNL to the lovely lunch conversations during the day, Nisha and Jose played a significant role in making this fellowship truly memorable.

Thanks to a generous donation from the Gowadia family in memory of Aspie S. Gowadia, Ryan is continuing to work on his project throughout the school year. Ryan will be finishing his degree and graduating in June 2025.

Fun facts about Ryan: He enjoys creating and editing videos, recently took up rock climbing, and enjoys making Korean dishes!