Current Interns
Current Interns
In the 23-24 academic year, the FSRC has 31 interns. The interns span multiple majors, grade levels, and interests in the forensic science realm. Interns are working on eight research projects, assisting with cases with three criminal justice agencies, and completing outreach to increase interest in STEM and forensic science.2024 Interns
Silvia Andrade Rios
Major: Biology, Physiology ConcentrationGraduating: Fall 2025
Hannah Bailey
Major: Chemistry, Bioanalytical and Forensic Science Concentration (Post-Bacc)Graduating: Spring 2026
Samantha Burke
Major: Biology, Forensic Science ConcentrationGraduating: Spring 2024
Sofia Burtt
Major: Biology, Forensic Science ConcentrationGraduating: May 2027
Career Goal: Forensic Anthropologist | Taphonomy
Bio: I am a first year forensic bio major at CSU East Bay. My passions in criminal justice and forensics forward my desire to be a piece of the puzzle involved in providing victim’s and their families peace and justice.
John Anthony Camacho, Jr.
Major: Biology, Forensic Science Concentration with a minor in ChemistryGraduating: Spring 2025
Career Goal: Forensic Biologist | Chemist
Bio: Hey! My name is John Anthony M. Camacho Jr., a third-year Biology undergraduate at CSU East Bay minoring in Chemistry with a concentration in Forensic Science. Throughout my college journey, I have learned skills and techniques in laboratories associated with biology and chemistry, which has given me the motivation and confidence to take my first steps in researching DNA on shell casing, working alongside Forensic Science Research to better equip myself for my future career. I’m thrilled to collaborate with the FSRC because it is an opportunity to meet fellow student interns and scientists and to strengthen and expand my knowledge and skills I’ve acquired. In my spare time, I spend most of it playing video games, reading romance books the kind that will make you cry, and watching a movie or show.
Jessenia Cohen
Major: Psychology, with a minor in Criminal JusticeGraduating: Spring 2024
Career Goal: Uncertain
Bio: My name is Jessenia Cohen, and I am thrilled at the opportunity to introduce myself as a prospective member of the Forensic Science Research Center (FSRC) family at East Bay. My journey into the fascinating world of forensic science began with a childhood curiosity that has evolved into a deep-seated passion. Currently, I am on the path to completing my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Criminal Justice, a journey that has been enriched by my desire to understand the complexities of human behavior and the intricacies of the criminal justice system. Beyond my academic endeavors, my journey has instilled in me a deep empathy and understanding for individuals. It is this empathy that drives my commitment to making a positive impact in the field of forensic science, particularly in areas such as Forensic Psychology and Behavior Analysis. As I embark on this exciting opportunity with the FSRC, I am eager to contribute my unique perspective and skills to the team. I look forward to collaborating with like-minded individuals, exchanging ideas, and ultimately, making meaningful contributions that have the potential to positively impact both the field of forensic science and the lives of individuals it serves.!
Alyssa Cruz
Major: Biology, Forensic Science ConcentrationGraduating: Spring 2024
Career Goal: Forensic Scientist
Bio: I am a Biology major with a concentration in forensic science and a minor in Chemistry. I have always loved the role science plays in solving crimes and examining evidence, and becoming a forensic scientist has been my dream ever since childhood. I hope to continue my education and attend graduate school in the future, and hope to establish a career in forensic science.
Parth Dave
Major: Cell and Molecular BiologyGraduating: May 2026
Career Goal: DNA Analyst
Bio: In my journey as a Cell and Molecular Biology major at Cal State East Bay, I've been fascinated by the potential within our DNA. Beyond textbooks, I've ventured into the lab, wielding tools like CRISPR to edit life's code, and explored the nuances of cellular behavior through flow cytometry. These experiences have not only sharpened my analytical skills but also deepened my appreciation for the meticulous detail and precision required in scientific inquiry. My diverse background, from dental assistance to lifeguarding, has imbued me with a unique perspective, emphasizing the importance of precision, safety, and responsibility—traits that are invaluable in the realm of genetic research. My aim is to specialize in a field that stands at the confluence of innovation and discovery. As I navigate through this journey, each experiment and seminar is a step closer to unlocking the mysteries encoded in our genes, with the hope of contributing meaningful insights to the world of molecular biology.
Grace Davidson
Major: Biology, Forensic Science Concentration
Graduating: Spring 2024
Career Goal: Forensic Scientist
Bio: I am currently a senior at CSUEB studying Biology with a concentration is Forensic Science. My hope is to eventually work as a forensic scientist and then teach forensics at either high school or college level. Being able to teach future forensic scientists has become a passion of mine because not many people know how fun and interesting it can be. When I am not at school, I work at Trader Joe's and spend my free time reading, most of my chosen books being horror. Being an intern opens the opportunity to have hands-on experience and expand my knowledge of different disciplines of the forensic world.
Tony DeFranco
Major: Biology, Forensic Science ConcentrationGraduating: Spring 2026
Audrey Dexter
Major: Biology, Microbiology and Biomedical Lab ConcentrationGraduating: Spring 2027
Emily Diplock
Major: Biology, Forensic Science ConcentrationGraduating: Spring 2024
Career Goal: Work at a state or federal crime lab
Bio: My name is Emily Diplock, and I am a transfer student from Southern California majoring in Biological Sciences concentrating in forensics.
Carli Gries
Major: Biology, Forensic Science ConcentrationGraduating: Spring 2024
Gloria Mercedes Hernandez
Major: Biology, Forensic Science ConcentrationGraduating: Spring 2025
Career Goal: Medical Examiner
Bio: Hello! My name is Gloria Mercedes Hernandez, and I am a first-generation college student going into my senior year after this semester. I transferred from Skyline Community College with my AA in Paralegal Studies and worked as an Administrative Assistant/Paralegal trainee at Trust and Estate Administration law firms, but my true heart belongs to forensic science. I have fallen in love with becoming a forensic medical examiner since I was in middle school to hopefully provide answers, give closure to families and give back the voices of the dead in any way I can. My passion for this field is what drives me to pursue my education further and expand my knowledge to the best of my ability. I hope to progress my education with the FSRC and to inspire others to pursue this career or other areas in this field! If my eyes, hands, and brain are not being used studying, I spend most of my time with my boyfriend, family and friends either hiking, eating, singing, or listening to my favorite podcast "Morbid: A true crime podcast"
Kathleen Jaime
Major: Biology, Forensic Science ConcentrationGraduating: Spring 2024
AJ Macedo
Major: Criminal JusticeGraduating: Fall 2025
Umayro Nosirova
Major: Biology, Cell and Molecular Biology ConcentrationGraduating: Spring 2025
Bio: As a passionate biology student, I am deeply fascinated by the intricate world of forensic science. My enthusiasm for understanding DNA and cellular biology drives my academic pursuits, motivating me to explore the complexities of life at the molecular level. Beyond my studies, I find solace and inspiration in nature through hiking and traveling, which broaden my perspective and fuel my curiosity about the world.
Susan Orgera
Major: Physics and Mathematics with a Data Science Minor (post-Bacc)Graduating: Spring 2026
Marisa Ortiz
Major: Biology, Forensic Science ConcentrationGraduating: Spring 2026
Giann Portuguez Voltaire
Major: Criminal JusticeGraduating: Spring 2024
Career Goal: I am passionate about education, the law, and women’s rights. My goal is to become a lawyer in the future and use what I have learned from the FSRC to guide my law practice and to improve policies and practices in Forensics, particularly in cold case investigations, while also advancing the causes of women in the criminal justice system.
Bio: Hello, I am Gianna. I am currently a Senior majoring in Criminal Justice at CSUEB. Before attending CSUEB, I obtained my associate's degree in Administration of Justice from Evergreen Valley College where I worked as a Supplemental Instruction Leader, facilitating study sessions for the course: Introduction to Administration of Justice. I hope and I am excited to continue to educate students about the criminal justice system, this time, through the lens of Forensic Science at the FSRC.
Ayesha Prasad
Major: Criminal Justice with a minor in Political ScienceGraduating: Spring 2024
Career Goal: Support victims and survivors of crime while they are navigating the criminal justice system in ways like providing guidance, motivation, and emotional support.
Bio: Hi! My name is Ayesha Prasad and I was born and raised in the heart of the Bay Area known as Hayward California. As a self proclaimed life long learner, my curiosity has granted me the drive to learn more about issues pertaining to me and my community. Once I began learning about the injustices faced by victims of crime I knew I wanted to help in some way. Thus, I began pursuing higher education at California State University East Bay to obtain a Bachelor's degree in criminal justice and a minor in political science. Currently, I am partaking in advocacy training to better aid those affected by sexual assault and utilizing forensic science to better understand and prevent crimes. Outside of my career interests I use my spare time solving escape rooms with friends and perfecting the art of personal self care.
Angela Quiroga
Major: Biology, Forensic Science ConcentrationGraduating: Spring 2025
Rocio Ramos Zuniga
Major: Biology, Forensic Science ConcentrationGraduating: Spring 2026
Giovanna Rivas Valdez
Major: Chemistry, Bioanalytical and Forensic Science ConcentrationGraduating: Spring 2025
Career Goal: Criminal Investigator | Forensic Chemist
Bio: My name is Giovanna and I am postbaccalaureate, meaning I’m working on getting my second bachelor’s in Chemistry here at CSUEB. I have a Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice studies but I have decided to branch out to a more science approach of the justice system. I’ve always had a passion for forensic science since I was in middle school. During my free time, I enjoy outdoor activities like hikes and going to the beach.
Vanessa Salgado
Major: Biology, Forensic Science Concentration, with a minor in ChemistryGraduating: Spring 2025
Career Goal: Forensic Anthropologist
Bio: Vanessa Salgado is a dedicated third-year student at Cal State East Bay, pursuing a Bachelor's degree with a major in Biological Sciences and a concentration in Forensic Science, accompanied by a minor in Chemistry. Vanessa proudly stands as a first-generation college student, breaking barriers and paving the way for future achievements. Intrigued by the intricacies of forensic science, Vanessa is an active member of the Mass Fatality Death Investigation group at the Forensic Science Research Center. Vanessa's specific interest lies in forensic anthropology, a field that blends her passion for biological sciences with a desire to unravel the mysteries of human remains. As she progresses through her academic journey, Vanessa aspires to make meaningful contributions to the field of forensic science, embodying the spirit of determination and curiosity that defines her academic journey.
Emily Saruwatari
Major: Biology, Forensic Science ConcentrationGraduating: Spring 2026
Career Goal: Crime Scene Investigator at the local or federal level
Bio: Hello. My name is Emily Saruwatari. I am a biology major with a concentration on Forensic science. My research project that I will be working on is seeing if fingerprints will stay into fired shell casings.
Aaryn Satcher
Major: Biology, Forensic Science ConcentrationGraduating: Spring 2026
Zoee Simmons
Major: Forensic Science: CSI at San Jose State UniversityGraduating: Fall 2024
Career Goal: Crime Scene Investigator or Fingerprint Analyst
Bio: Hi, I am a student of San Jose State University! I was born in 2002 and lived all my life in the Bay Area. I have a pet dog named Leo. I love to read and play video games! A fun fact about myself is that I know American Sign Language! :)
Anthoni Soriano
Major: Biology, Forensic Science ConcentrationGraduating: Spring 2024
Career Goal: Forensic Scientist
Bio: I'm a 22 year old Hispanic from Pico Rivera, who wants to work in a forensic lab in the future. I want to use technical science skills I've learned to help people solve future cases. I want to be able to uses science to help people in the area that I grew up. Being raised by two immigrant parents taught me to work hard to accomplish the goals that I want to achieve. My parents were not given an option to do something like this, which inspired me to work hard and seek out my goal.
Amaya Thomas
Major: Biology, Forensic Science ConcentrationGraduating: Spring 2026
Career Goal: Forensic Entomologist
Bio: Amaya Thomas is an undergraduate student at Cal State East Bay. In the FSRC is actively involved in the Outreach Group and research on excited delirium. They intend to work in the forensic field after graduation to follow their passion in forensic entomology and botany. In their spare time they can be found reading books.