Ryan’s research deals with tardigrades, a.k.a water bears, a.k.a the toughest animals on Earth. He wants to know how they are able to survive crazy conditions such as having almost no water in their bodies, turning into glass-like little balls, and then being thrown into space.

Greg Stark is a Ph.D. student at the University of Wyoming in the Department of Geology & Geophysics. Greg earned his B.S. in Geology from the University of Iowa in 2007, during which he studied magma degassing at Mt. St. Helens as part of his honors thesis.

Currently in pursuit of a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, Matt’s research focuses on characterizing the fundamental properties of cool flames produced while burning heptane and solid materials such as high-density polyethylene. Insights into cool flame low-temperature chemistry could lead to reduced engine knock or higher efficiency engines.

Alex Fox grew up in New York City and has always been interested in the underlying mechanics of the natural world. He received a BA in Mathematics and Physics at Oberlin College (2018), where he studied Astrophysics and Gravitation. After growing interested in the impacts that (mis)management has on our water and agricultural resources, he started to explore how he could apply his physics background to study these issues.

Sarah Hankins was born and raised in Thornton, Colorado. Growing up she enjoyed STEM-related activities such as participating on a Lego robotics team and competing in (and winning) the Colorado Skills USA CAD competition.