NASA Nebraska Space Grant
Students 2024-2025
The NASA Nebraska Space Grant is proud of our funded students. The profiles below highlight the excellent research and aerospace workforce development activities being undertaken in Nebraska this year. For 2023-2024 profiles, click here.
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Michael Allen
University of Nebraska at Omaha
Michael Allen is a third-year PhD student in the Vascular Research Lab at UNO, working under the mentorship of Dr. Song-Young Park. He is focused on cellular and molecular physiology related to the progression and treatment of cardiovascular disease. Outside the lab and research activities, he enjoys golfing with friends and family.
Cody Anderson
University of Nebraska at Omaha
Cody Anderson is a third-year PhD student in the Vascular Physiology Laboratory at the University of Nebraska at Omaha. His research interests encompass the effects of sedentary behavior on cardiovascular health and the development of technology for monitoring cardiovascular conditions. This includes work on cuffless blood pressure systems for wearable technology, image analysis techniques for vascular ultrasound, and applications of artificial intelligence.
Abaigeal Aydt
University of Nebraska - Lincoln
Abaigeal Aydt is a student at the University of Nebraska - Lincoln, where she is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering. Her research centers on MXenes and their application in developing textile-based supercapacitors. Within this research group, her interests are focused on innovation, enhancement, and the energy solutions offered by this project.
Jurgen Beller
University of Nebraska at Omaha
Jurgen Beller is a third-year student at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, where he is studying Molecular and Biomedical Biology. As an undergraduate research assistant in Dr. Denis Svechkarev's lab, his research focuses on developing new nanofibrous polymer-based materials with enhanced antibacterial properties for potential use in medical devices and space exploration.
Andres Benitez-Albiter
University of Nebraska at Omaha
Andres Benitez-Albiter is a first-year doctoral research assistant at the UNO Vascular Research & O2M Lab. He recently earned his master’s degree in health & kinesiology from UNO. His research interests include investigating the effects of space flight, sedentary behaviors, and elevated CO2 on vascular function.
Kolby Brink
University of Nebraska at Omaha
Kolby Brink is a Ph.D. student at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, specializing in biomechanics. He holds a bachelor's degree in Kinesiology-Biomechanics with a minor in Biomedical Engineering from Boise State University and a master’s degree in biomechanics from UNO. As a doctoral research assistant in the Human Movement and Variability Lab, his research focuses on movement variability, sport movement analysis, and military biomechanics, with a particular interest in the biomechanics of soldiers during ruck marches. His academic journey and hands-on experience, including an internship at the Center of Orthopedic and Biomechanical Research, have fueled his dedication to advancing the field of biomechanics.
Jurgen Beller
University of Nebraska at Omaha
Jurgen Beller is a third-year student at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, where he is studying Molecular and Biomedical Biology. As an undergraduate research assistant in Dr. Denis Svechkarev's lab, his research focuses on developing new nanofibrous polymer-based materials with enhanced antibacterial properties for potential use in medical devices and space exploration.
Andres Benitez-Albiter
University of Nebraska at Omaha
Andres Benitez-Albiter is a first-year doctoral research assistant at the UNO Vascular Research & O2M Lab. He recently earned his master’s degree in health & kinesiology from UNO. His research interests include investigating the effects of space flight, sedentary behaviors, and elevated CO2 on vascular function.
Kolby Brink
University of Nebraska at Omaha
Kolby Brink is a Ph.D. student at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, specializing in biomechanics. He holds a bachelor's degree in Kinesiology-Biomechanics with a minor in Biomedical Engineering from Boise State University and a master’s degree in biomechanics from UNO. As a doctoral research assistant in the Human Movement and Variability Lab, his research focuses on movement variability, sport movement analysis, and military biomechanics, with a particular interest in the biomechanics of soldiers during ruck marches. His academic journey and hands-on experience, including an internship at the Center of Orthopedic and Biomechanical Research, have fueled his dedication to advancing the field of biomechanics.
Jurgen Beller
University of Nebraska at Omaha
Jurgen Beller is a third-year student at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, where he is studying Molecular and Biomedical Biology. As an undergraduate research assistant in Dr. Denis Svechkarev's lab, his research focuses on developing new nanofibrous polymer-based materials with enhanced antibacterial properties for potential use in medical devices and space exploration.
Andres Benitez-Albiter
University of Nebraska at Omaha
Andres Benitez-Albiter is a first-year doctoral research assistant at the UNO Vascular Research & O2M Lab. He recently earned his master’s degree in health & kinesiology from UNO. His research interests include investigating the effects of space flight, sedentary behaviors, and elevated CO2 on vascular function.
Kolby Brink
University of Nebraska at Omaha
Kolby Brink is a Ph.D. student at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, specializing in biomechanics. He holds a bachelor's degree in Kinesiology-Biomechanics with a minor in Biomedical Engineering from Boise State University and a master’s degree in biomechanics from UNO. As a doctoral research assistant in the Human Movement and Variability Lab, his research focuses on movement variability, sport movement analysis, and military biomechanics, with a particular interest in the biomechanics of soldiers during ruck marches. His academic journey and hands-on experience, including an internship at the Center of Orthopedic and Biomechanical Research, have fueled his dedication to advancing the field of biomechanics.
Eleanor Britson
University of Nebraska at Omaha
Eleanor Britson began her undergraduate education as a homeschooled high school student through the College Now Program at Metro Community College. She is currently a sophomore at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, majoring in Biomechanics. Eleanor volunteers with research under Dr. Jorge Zuniga, working on the development of 3D printed prosthetic and assistive devices. She is also a member of the Zeta Tau Alpha sorority. Following graduation, Eleanor plans to pursue graduate studies in Prosthetics-Orthotics with the goal of becoming a prosthetist.
Kelsey Ciagala
University of Nebraska at Omaha
Kelsey Ciagala is a Ph.D. candidate at the University of Nebraska Omaha, specializing in Industrial-Organizational Psychology. She conducts research under Dr. William Kramer, focusing on groups and teams in the workplace, and is currently collaborating with Dr. Samuel Hunter at the National Counterterrorism Innovation, Technology, and Education Center (NCITE). Kelsey has completed two graduate internships at NASA's Langley Research Center, where she worked on organizational development. Supported by the NASA Nebraska Space Grant Fellowship, she is investigating how individuals in teams interact with and utilize artificial intelligence.
Emily Ciesielski
University of Nebraska - Lincoln
Emily Ciesielski is a sophomore at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering. She works as a research assistant in the Bio/Flow Lab under Dr. Sangjin Ryu. Emily is also an active member of the Delta Gamma-Kappa Chapter and the women’s lacrosse team. Her current research project aims to develop a microfluidic device for testing infectious diseases using loop-mediated isothermal amplification.
Christopher Engsberg
University of Nebraska - Omaha
Christopher Engsberg is a doctoral student in the Biomechanics Department at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, where he conducts research under Dr. Mukherjee. His work focuses on motor control by integrating neuroscience and human movement perspectives. Christopher began his research career as an undergraduate at Truman State University in Missouri, where he majored in Exercise Science with a concentration in biomechanics. After completing his master’s degree under Dr. Mukherjee, he chose to continue his studies at UNO for his Ph.D. He aims to expand the understanding of motor control and aspires to become a principal investigator at a research institute.
Rosalind Grant
Nebraska Indian Community College
Rosalind Grant is a student at Nebraska Indian Community College, pursuing an associate’s degree in general science studies. Her research is part of the Environmental Monitoring Through Native Prairie Restoration project, which employs various methods to assess environmental conditions in their research areas. The project involves analyzing soil and plant composition data, Land Cover Monitoring System (LCMS) data, Globe Observer data, and drone GIS data, and comparing these with weather station data over time. This research aims to understand how local environments are responding to changes such as climate change, with the goal of contributing valuable insights to both local communities and NASA's broader mission.
Alyssa Grube
University of Nebraska - Lincoln
Alyssa Grube is working on her dissertation, which focuses on the development of MXene-coated wool textile-based supercapacitors for energy generation and storage in both military and consumer applications. She is recognized for being the first to successfully use wool in textile-based energy storage. Alyssa’s background includes engineering mechanics, international engineering leadership, high-temperature microbial fuel cells, and microbiology. She is a strong advocate for diversity in STEM and actively participates in AICHE LGBTQ+ and Allies and the Society of Women Engineers (SWE).
Thomas Hare
Creighton University
Thomas Hare is a senior majoring in Physics and Mathematics at Creighton University. He is developing computer simulations of quasar accretion disks, which will be observed by the upcoming Vera Rubin Observatory. These simulations aim to predict future observations and test standard accretion disk models. Thomas's interest in space sciences originated from his passion for backyard astronomy in his hometown of Fayetteville, AR. Upon graduation, he aspires to pursue a research career in astrophysics.
Alexis Kramer
Chadron State College
Alexis Kramer is a senior undergraduate student at Chadron State College in Chadron, Nebraska, where she is majoring in Chemistry with a minor in Biology. She is set to graduate in May 2025 and plans to attend medical school at UNMC in Omaha, Nebraska. Under the guidance of Dr. Ann Buchmann, Ph.D., Alexis will conduct research on triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells, testing a chemical that could potentially serve as a treatment by inhibiting the Hedgehog/Gli-1 signaling pathway. Her research will also generate data on Gli-1 inhibition, which has various medical applications. Alexis is passionate about her work and eager to delve into research on this disease.
Jiah Marks
Nebraska Indian Community College
Jiah Marks, Sr., a husband and proud father of three, is a recent Magna Cum Laude graduate with an associate degree in Business from Nebraska Indian Community College. He is currently involved in the Environmental Monitoring Through Native Prairie Restoration research project, which employs various environmental monitoring methods to assess conditions. His research utilizes soil and plant composition data, Land Cover Monitoring System (LCMS) data, Globe Observer data, and drone GIS data to compare with weather station data over time. This project aims to provide insights into how local environments are responding to changes such as climate change, and understanding these changes is crucial for future adaptation. Under NASA’s leadership, Jiah hopes to contribute to a broader body of knowledge that benefits both local communities and NASA’s mission.
Ansonia McIntire
Nebraska Indian Community College
Ansonia McIntire is a second-year student at Western Nebraska Community College, majoring in Computer Science with a focus on software engineering. She plans to transfer to a four-year university to complete her bachelor’s degree in computer science by 2025. With the support of the NASA Nebraska Space Grant, Ansonia is researching ways to enhance bomb detection robots through the use of sensors, remote connectivity, and GPS. Her research aims to improve the safety of first responders dealing with bombs and similar threats.
Patrick McManigal
University of Nebraska - Lincoln
Patrick is a Ph.D. student at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, specializing in Computer Engineering. He works as a research assistant in the Smart Materials and Robotics Lab, where his research focuses on multimodal electronics for wearable health monitoring and soft robotics.
Grant Meyer
University of Nebraska - Lincoln
Grant Meyer is a graduate student at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, pursuing a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering and Applied Mechanics. He earned his B.S. in Mechanical Engineering in December 2023. During his undergraduate studies, Grant was actively involved in the Aerospace Club, serving as president of Husker Rocketry from 2022 to 2023, leading the team in the Spaceport America Cup, and being a key member of NASA Lunabotics. Currently, under the supervision of Dr. Li Tan, his research focuses on the chemical degradation of polymers exposed to oxidizers
Kasey Moomau
University of Nebraska - Lincoln
Kasey Moomau is a second-year Ph.D. student in Mechanical Engineering and Applied Mechanics at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. He earned his B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from UNL in May 2023 and is a National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellow. Prior to joining UNL, Kasey spent nearly a decade teaching STEM to gifted K-12 students and participating in additive manufacturing citizen science projects. At the Nelson Lab, he is developing innovative techniques and applications at the intersection of additive manufacturing and robotics, aiming to support NASA’s future interplanetary exploration missions. Kasey also pursues his passion for mentorship and improving engineering education through research on STEM identity formation with the Deters Research Group and by volunteering as a mentor, instructor, and curriculum designer for K-12 after-school robotics clubs.
Victoria Nelson
University of Nebraska - Lincoln
Victoria Nelson is a second-year master’s student in Mechanical Engineering and Applied Mechanics at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, where she is also pursuing a minor in Computer Science. She holds a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering with a minor in Robotics Engineering from UNL. Her current research focuses on developing a portable surgical training simulator for gallbladder surgery. The project aims to create a compact device that offers a realistic virtual surgical environment, which can be easily transported and used in various settings, including outer space.
Spencer Pak
University of Nebraska - Lincoln
Spencer Pak is a Ph.D. student in Mechanical Engineering and Applied Mechanics at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. He earned his B.S. in Bioengineering from the University of California, Riverside. His current research focuses on fabricating liquid metal elastomer composites for use in soft robotics and wearable electronics. Under the NASA NE Space Grant Fellowship, Spencer aims to develop a new manufacturing framework for 3D printing flexible electronics in space
Jayden Palik
University of Nebraska - Lincoln
Jayden Palik is a second-year graduate student pursuing a Ph.D. in Engineering with a specialization in Materials at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. He holds a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from UNL. Currently, Jayden is conducting research under Dr. Li Tan, focusing on sodium-ion and lithium-ion batteries.
Autumn Peters
Metropolitan Community College
Autumn Peters is a first-generation college student currently attending Metropolitan Community College, where she is pursuing a degree in Liberal Arts/Academic Transfer in Science (LATAS). She is working towards her Associate of Science degree with the goal of transferring to a university to obtain a master's degree in Astronomy and a Ph.D. in Physics. Autumn is a member of the NASA Community College Aerospace Scholars (NCAS) program for Mission One and is also involved in the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society.
Alexia Rains
University of Nebraska - Omaha
Alexia Rains is a second-year master’s student in the Department of Biomechanics at the University of Nebraska at Omaha. Guided by Dr. Mukul Mukherjee, she is engaged in research focused on motor control and rehabilitation for stroke survivors. Her current project involves developing a soft, passive device aimed at improving dynamic balance control during gait. Aspiring to a career in movement-based product development, Alexia is keen to explore how such devices can be adapted for various applications, including supporting astronauts returning from space missions.
Lucas Rowden
University of Nebraska - Lincoln
Lucas Rowden is a senior undergraduate student pursuing a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL). He currently works as an undergraduate researcher in the UNL BioFlow Lab under the guidance of Dr. Sangjin Ryu. His research focuses on developing a foldable and inflatable device that expands through liquid injection, inspired by insect wings. Supported by the NASA Nebraska Space Grant Fellowship, Lucas aims to create a device that can be effectively utilized for space exploration purposes.
Jessica Soler
Western Nebraska Community College
Jessica Soler is a Computer Science student at Western Nebraska Community College, where she has completed her first year with a 4.0 GPA. She has received an academic excellence award, the only one in her department, and has been nominated for the S-STEM Scholars program. Jessica is active on campus as the Treasurer of Phi Theta Kappa, a member of the Math and Science Club, and a participant in the STEM CONNECT Program. Her recent interest in Python programming has sparked her enthusiasm for AI, automation, and algorithms. Although she is not currently seeking work or internships, she is open to opportunities that align with her goals as she plans to relocate for her bachelor’s degree in Fall 2025. Jessica is excited to add the NASA Space Grant to her extracurricular activities and looks forward to connecting with the coding community. Outside of her studies, she is a stay-at-home mom, enjoys gardening, biking with her family, and playing the drums.
Matthew Tavenner
Western Nebraska Community College
Matthew Tavenner is a non-traditional student majoring in Computer Engineering and Computer Science, with a minor in Robotic Engineering. He has a strong passion for technology and enjoys working with microcontrollers, exploring their potential in various applications. His academic journey reflects a commitment to integrating hardware and software, with the goal of innovating in the field of embedded systems.
Savanna Wallin
University of Nebraska - Medical Center
Savanna Wallin is in her final year as a Ph.D. student at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, working in Dr. Gloria Borgstahl's laboratory. Her research focuses on therapeutically targeting RAD52, a DNA repair protein crucial for certain cancers that lack the homologous recombination (HR) pathway for repairing double-stranded DNA breaks. Savanna's project aims to understand the vulnerabilities of HR-deficient cancers and develop more effective, selective anti-cancer therapies targeting RAD52.
Benjamin Zwiener
University of Nebraska - Lincoln
Benjamin Zwiener, originally from Omaha, Nebraska, began his engineering career with VEX Robotics and has since earned a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering with a minor in Robotics Engineering from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL). He is now a second-year master’s student at UNL, studying Mechanical Engineering and Applied Mechanics with a minor in Computer Science. Benjamin works as a teaching assistant for geometric modeling and conducts research under Dr. Carl Nelson in the field of robotics. For his thesis, he is investigating designs for a compliant variable stiffness mechanism aimed at reducing loads and impacts on robots. Additionally, he is working on a project to develop a robot capable of remotely emulating a doctor's movement of an ultrasound probe during diagnostic procedures.