Awards
Undergraduate Student Researcher of the Year
Noorul Sama Sahel
Computer Science
Hennings College of Science, Mathematics and Technology
Nominated by Dr. Yulia Kumar, Dr. Daehan Kwak and Dr. Feng Qi
Noorul Sama Sahel is a senior at Kean University majoring in Computer Science, with a strong interest in applied research in AI, healthcare, and robotics. As a Research Ambassador, she encourages students to see research as accessible and driven by curiosity. She has worked on breast cancer diagnostic tools using deep learning and conducted robotics research at Princeton. Noorul is especially passionate about supporting first-generation students and helping others confidently begin their research journey.
Undergraduate Student Researcher of the Year
- Honorable Mention
Angeryca Concepcion
Business Management Analytics
College of Business and Public Management
Nominated by Dr. Dan Liu, Dr. Claire Yan and Dr. Weichun Zhu
Angeryca R. Concepcion is a senior at Kean University majoring in Business Management Analytics with a minor in Marketing. She is involved in student leadership, serves as a Microsoft Excel Student Ambassador, and has participated in the L’Oréal Brandstorm 2026 competition.Her research focuses on STEM performance, analytics, and consumer behavior. After graduation, she plans to pursue an MBS at Rutgers University, aiming to apply IT and consumer insights toward launching her own business.
Undergraduate Student Researcher of the Year
- Honorable Mention
Katia Olhovsky
Interior Design
Michael Graves College
Nominated by Dr. Sahand Abbasi
Katia Olhovsky is a junior at Kean University studying Interior Design. Her research focuses on salutogenic and trauma-informed design, exploring how spaces can support mental well-being and healing.
She has conducted research on chronic illness and trauma survivors, translating insights into human-centered design solutions, and has experience in luxury residential design.
Undergraduate Student Researcher of the Year
- Honorable Mention
Lu Li
Molecular and Cell Biology
Hennings College of Science, Mathematics and Technology Nominated by Dr. Supratik Kar
Lu Li is a senior Molecular and Cell Biology major at Kean University conducting interdisciplinary research in computational chemistry, toxicology, and drug discovery under Dr. Supratik Kar. She has co-authored five peer-reviewed publications, including four in top-tier journals.
She has earned over $100,000 in scholarships and received M.S. offers from leading institutions such as Johns Hopkins, Columbia, and Weill Cornell, reflecting her strong research ability and academic excellence.
Graduate Student Researcher of the Year
Nicolas Largotta
Masters Biotechnology Science
Hennings College of Science, Mathematics and Technology
Nominated by Dr. Brenna Levine
Nicolas Largotta is a Master of Science in Biotechnology candidate at Kean University, where he conducts research under Dr. Brenna Levine. His work spans vertebrate and invertebrate systems, including the genomics of rattlesnake hybridization between the prairie rattlesnake (Crotalus viridis) and the Mojave rattlesnake (C. scutulatus) and the invasion genetics of the spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula). His research integrates high-performance computing, multi caller variant detection pipelines, and field-collected samples to address questions in evolutionary biology and genomics. Broadly, Nicolas is interested in bioinformatics, evolution, and multiomics approaches to understanding biological systems. Beyond his own research, he serves as a mentor to undergraduate and fellow graduate students in the lab, training them in laboratory techniques and bioinformatic troubleshooting. After completing his degree, Nicolas plans to pursue a career in the life sciences industry.
Graduate Student Researcher of the Year
- Honorable Mention
Dahana Moz Ruiz
Masters Computer Science
Hennings College of Science, Mathematics and Technology
Nominated by Dr. Patricia Morreale and Dr. Daehan Kwak
Dahana Moz Ruiz is a graduate Computer Science student at Kean University and a Graduate Research Assistant working on the NSF-funded Pathways Project, where she analyzes student engagement data to improve academic and career outcomes in computing. She also contributed as an AI Researcher for a CPC Integrated Health project, developing LLM-based systems for healthcare applications. Her experience spans machine learning, NLP, and inclusive design, and she is a co-author on multiple research publications.
Graduate Student Researcher of the Year
- Honorable Mention
Angelina Spricigo
Masters Speech-Language Pathology
College of Education
Nominated by Dr. Jennifer Chen
Angelina Spricigo is a graduate student in the Speech-Language Pathology program at Kean University and a Graduate Research Assistant in the Department of Early Childhood Education under Dr. Jennifer Chen. Their work focuses on early childhood development, including co-authoring a 2026 article on prosocial and antisocial behaviors in preschool children. She also serve as a clinician at the Kean University Center for Communication Disorders, applying evidence-based practices to support clients. Balancing research and clinical work has strengthened their expertise and deepened their interest in communication, education, and emerging technology. Angelina is honored to receive an Honorable Mention for the Graduate Student Researcher of the Year award and is grateful for the mentorship and opportunities at Kean University.
Doctoral Student Researcher of the Year
Dylan Cumella
Doctor of Physical Therapy
College of Health Professions and Human Services
Nominated by Dr. Jenna Tucker
Dylan is a Doctor of Physical Therapy student in Kean University’s Class of 2026 and a recipient of the Kean DPT Academic Excellence Award. As a Doctoral Assistant to Dr. Jenna Tucker, he has contributed to peer-reviewed research in concussion rehabilitation and presented at both national and state conferences. Dylan is also an active member of the Brain Injury Alliance of New Jersey and has a strong interest in neurologic physical therapy.
Research Days Cover Design Contest
Winner
Amber Ruiz
GraphicDesign
Robert Busch School of Design, Michael Graves College
Amber Ruiz is a graphic designer and visual storyteller completing her senior year at Kean University. She has contributed to Kean Research Days as a Graphic Designer and won the 2026 cover design competition, while also serving as a photography sponsor for Creative Mornings Montclair. As a first-generation college student, she is driven by determination and independence. Amber is pursuing a Global MBA at Kean University to expand her skills in business and leadership, with the goal of becoming a Creative Director.
Click to Enlarge