Congratulations to Andrea Hernández, named the 2026 CBC Outstanding Biochemistry Junior, and Galileo Circle Scholar!

Congratulations to Andrea Hernández, named the 2026 CBC Outstanding Biochemistry Junior, and Galileo Circle Scholar! 

My name is Andrea Hernández, originally from Nogales, Sonora, Mexico, and member of the W.A. Franke Honors College. During my time at the UA, I have engaged in meaningful research projects that have shaped my academic and professional interests. I began my journey as a KEYS intern working with Dr. Tomasiak from the CBC Department, where I characterized a protein involved in the fungus that causes Valley Fever. Later, as an intern at the UA Cancer Center in Dr. Wang’s lab from the Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, I explored targeted protein degradation in cancer using molecular glues and worked with light-activated drug strategies. Currently, as a MARC trainee with Dr. Arunachalam from the Immunobiology Department, I am exploring further applications of mRNA vaccines in tumor development, aging, and inheritance. I am working on developing an mRNA vaccine that could serve as a tool to study these processes. 

Together, these experiences have shaped my goal of pursuing a PhD in Immunology, with a focus on vaccine development and gene therapy. Beyond the lab, I am passionate about expanding access to research opportunities for students and uplifting cultural identities on campus. I do this by serving as a CBC peer mentor, a STAR Lab program facilitator where I teach science literacy classes to high school students, taking on leadership roles in the Nepantla Student Association, and participating in fellowships that have allowed me to explore scientific concepts in the U.S.-Mexico border region. I have learned that embracing your story is one of the most powerful ways to turn experience into purpose, and I strive to pass this on to my students!