Team — Pavel Labs

Research Team

Dr. Ioana Emilia Pavel - Professor, Biomedical Sciences

Dr. Pavel has served as a research mentor for 15+ years. Her research has been recognized by the ACS Omega in the "Women at the Forefront of Chemistry" issue. Ioana enjoys reading, spending time with her family, friends, and being outdoors.
Laurynn Torres - Graduate Student, Marine Biology

I am a native Washingtonian with a dream of having my own rehab facility for both marine and terrestrial wildlife, my background is in wildlife ecology/conservation and marine ecology/society. I plan to have a long professional career with NOAA doing ecological research and working with endangered species.
Shuvadeepa Basu - Graduate Student, Biomedical Sciences

My current research is on using silver nanoparticles for efficient drug delivery of antibiotic and anticancer drugs. My long-term plan is to do advanced research on cancer therapy.
Emma Kenyon - Graduate Student, Biomedical Sciences

I graduated from Baylor University with a B.S. in Biology and a minor in Biochemistry. I’m especially interested in microbiology, infectious and chronic diseases, and how molecular techniques can be applied to clinically relevant research. Outside the lab, I love painting animals and spending time with my bunny, Cupid.
Ayesha Khalid - Graduate Student, Chemistry

My research interests are in water quality and developing methods for the detection of inorganic and organic hazardous contaminants of fresh and sea water.
Daniel Adams - Graduate Student, Chemistry

I graduated from the University of San Antonio with a B.S. in Biology, focusing on microbiology & organic chemistry. I later completed the A.S. programs in Process Technology and Environmental/Petrochemical Laboratory Technician at Del Mar college. I have extensive past experience in zoology, horticulture, medicine education and marine water chemistry.
Alexandra Padron - Graduate Student

I earned a B.S. in Chemistry with a minor in Biology and am currently a pre-dental student with a strong interest in pharmacology and biomedical sciences. In my free time, I enjoy spending time outdoors, creating arts and crafts, and volunteering at my local children’s hospital.
Mazzy Barrientos - Upcoming Graduate, Fall 2026

Mu current goal is to expand my knowledge in analytical chemistry instrumentation. I plan to apply to the M.S. in Chemistry Program after graduation to prepare for employment as an industrial chemist.
Lauren Reyna – Honors alumni and volunteer, Biochemistry

I am an honors undergraduate biochemistry student, research assistant, nationally certified Emergency Medical Technician, and aspiring physician with training and knowledge in lab practices and emergency medicine. I am excited to further the field of medicine through my contributions to the underserved and through my research on nano-applications to anticancer drugs.
Rubena Casas - McNair Research Student, Biomedical Sciences & Biochemistry

I am a Ronald E. McNair Scholar pursuing a B.S. in Biomedical Sciences and a minor in Biochemistry. My research interests include using cell culture to investigate the impacts of nanotechnology-based applications on cellular behaviors and functions. My goal is to pursue a Ph.D. in Cancer Biology. Outside of the lab, I spend my time working as a math tutor at the community college and volunteering at a local free clinic.
Thomas Barreda - Honors Research Student, Biology

I hope to earn at least a master's degree, though I am unsure of what it will be. My scientific interests include microbiology, genetics, and the growing field of genetic modification. In my free time, I enjoy cooking and playing piano.
Renata Vega - Undergraduate Student, Biomedical Sciences

I am currently working under the guidance of Kyra Kaiser on research focused on the development of alternative antimicrobial agents to address bacterial antibiotic resistance. I aim to apply the technical and personal skills gained through my involvement with Pavel Lab to my future independent research and my professional aspirations of attending medical school after graduation and obtain a degree in medicine.
Eduardo Amador - Undergraduate Student, Environmental Sciences & Studio Art

I am pursuing research opportunities in healthy environmental practices and medicinal plants as part of Dr. Pavel's team. In my free time, I enjoy being outdoors and drawing.
Christina Montez - Undergraduate Student, Environmental Sciences

One of my goals is to become familiar with the advanced instrumentation and learn the ways it can be utilized in environmental studies. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family, friends, and dogs!
Andrea Radish - Honors Research Student, Biomedical Sciences
Victoria Godsey - Honors Research Student, Biomedical Sciences
Craig Eubanks - Undergraduate Student, Environmental Sciences