Current Interns

Current Interns

For the 24-25 Academic Year, the FSRC has 18 continuing interns from the prior academic year. 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.

2024-2025 Interns

Silvia Andrade Rios

Major: Biology, Physiology Concentration
Graduating: Fall 2025

Hannah Bailey

Major: Chemistry, Bioanalytical and Forensic Science Concentration (Post-Bacc)
Graduating: Spring 2026

Sofia Burtt

Major: Biology, Forensic Science Concentration
Graduating: 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 Chemistry
Graduating: 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.

Parth Dave

Major: Cell and Molecular Biology
Graduating: 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.

Tony DeFranco

Major: Biology, Forensic Science Concentration
Graduating: Spring 2026

Gloria Mercedes Hernandez

Major: Biology, Forensic Science Concentration
Graduating: 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" 

Umayro Nosirova

Major: Biology, Cell and Molecular Biology Concentration
Graduating: 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 Concentration
Graduating: Spring 2026

Angela Quiroga

Major: Biology, Forensic Science Concentration
Graduating: Spring 2025

Rocio Ramos Zuniga

Major: Biology, Forensic Science Concentration
Graduating: Spring 2026

Giovanna Rivas Valdez

Major: Chemistry, Bioanalytical and Forensic Science Concentration
Graduating: 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 Chemistry
Graduating: 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 Concentration
Graduating: 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 Concentration
Graduating: Spring 2026

Zoee Simmons

Major: Forensic Science: CSI at San Jose State University
Graduating: 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! :)

Amaya Thomas

Major: Biology, Forensic Science Concentration
Graduating: 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.