Meet Your Team

Anna Tuttle

Director of Undergraduate Research

(she/her)

As part of the Research and Economic Development Team, Anna is responsible for fostering collaboration between various research programs and supporting undergraduate involvement in research, amongst other things.

Anna also oversees the Undergraduate Scholars Program. You may also reach her at usp@montana.edu

Amanda Haab

Undergraduate Research Ambassador/Chair of Undergraduate Research Council
(she/her)

Amanda is a rising senior studying Microbiology who serves as a resource for students exploring their future in research. By supporting undergraduate research programming, Amanda aims to foster a community of curiosity where all students, regardless of their discipline, feel that research is accessible and relevant to them. She wants students to understand that research is not just for scientists but also for artists, philosophers, nurses, and more. Amanda is available for 1:1 support and mentoring of students interested and currently in research. 

Rebecca (Becca) Berquist

Becca, a Senior majoring in Agricultural Education, is dedicated to helping undergraduate students explore their roles in research.  With more than two years of experience as a Student Animal Research Technician at one of MSU's core grant research facilities, she brings a unique perspective to the Undergraduate Research Council. Through the Council, Becca is committed to highlighting the wide array of research opportunities available on campus, ensuring that every student knows there’s a place for them in the world of research. 

Calla Castro

Calla is a senior studying Honors Microbiology and has been involved in research projects through MSU and Duke University. Her project at MSU with the Center for Biofilm Engineering and Thermal Biology Institute, "Thermophilic Degradation of Plastic Wastes," explores the hot springs in the Heart Lake Geyser Basin of Yellowstone National Park for a heat-loving microbe that can degrade (eat) plastic. Her project with Duke University "External Validation of a Caffeine Population Pharmacokinetic Model in Neonates with Congenital Heart Disease" validated a previously peer-reviewed model of the pharmacokinetics of caffeine in neonates to confirm the model for downstream use in dosing optimization. After completing her undergraduate degree, Calla hopes to continue her education in medicine and epidemiology.

Jessminda DiCello

(she/her)

Jessminda is a rising Junior. She enjoys studying biology and is originally from Bozeman, MT. She chose to attend Montana State after spending a year at Clark University in Worcester, MA, where she realized she wanted to go into a STEM field and that Montana State would be the best fit. Outside of school, she does improv at Last Best Comedy, enjoys watching movies, and spends time outside. In the future, Jessminda hopes to become a doctor and, through this avenue, make a positive impact on her community. She understands how frustrating it can feel to get involved with research, as there is not one clear path to fit every person. She has been involved in research through the Duke STAR program with MSU. She is excited to help other students get interested in research and to continue to learn more about it herself. 

Carly Jensen

(she/her)

Carly is in her second year at MSU, majoring in Microbiology with a minor in German Studies. She serves as a member of the Undergraduate Research Council, where she collaborates with the team to enhance research opportunities while making them accessible to all students who wish to be involved. As a second year student, Carly understands how overwhelming it can be to begin the research process and is passionate about empowering her peers to pursue their goals, both on and off campus. 

Zoe Seaford

Zoe is a dedicated and passionate student researcher pursuing a degree in Cell Biology and Neuroscience. She is committed to fostering academic growth, critical thinking, analytical skills, and a love for the unknown. Zoe believes in creating a supportive and collaborative environment where students are encouraged to explore their ideas, ask questions, and push the boundaries of knowledge. She is excited to get to know students from all majors and hopes to create a strong research community on campus.

Andrea Storer

(she/her)

Andrea is a senior studying Cell Biology and Neuroscience. After graduating, she will pursue a master’s in epidemiology and global health before applying to medical school. She aspires to provide rural pediatric healthcare for Iñupiat communities. She serves as a math and science tutor for minority students on campus. She is the current president of Honor Bound, a program that supports Honors College Indigenous students in their pursuits of higher education. She would love to help students begin or continue their journey in research and academics. In her free time, she can be found out in Mother Nature, at live music events, and/or with friends and family eating delish food.

Rebekah Storlie

Rebekah is a sophomore exercise science major/coaching minor and is involved in a kinesiology lab here on campus. She believes strongly in making it easier for students to get into the research opportunities that our university so proudly promotes. In addition to her involvement in the council, she also serves as an ASMSU senator for the college of Education, Health & Human Development and is enrolled in the Honors college. She is invested in representing and advocating for hardworking, dedicated students in all these areas. After her Bachelor's degree Rebekah hopes to attend graduate school to become an athletic trainer. 

Kelly Wilcox 

Kelly is a biochemistry student at MSU. Currently, she's involved in research within the Biological Engineering department on campus, where she's exploring the degradation characteristics of Polylactic Acid to improve orthopedic surgery techniques. Outside of the lab, Kelly is involved in student leadership, volunteering, and student clubs throughout campus. Feel free to ask her any and all questions on how to get involved on campus!