Rishika Porlanda
Alumni
I am in the Class of 2028 at Princeton University studying Astrophysical Sciences, with intended minors in Engineering Physics and Materials Science & Engineering. I am a Research Assistant on NASA’s SunRISE mission and serving as Principal Investigator of LUNA-CAST, the winning NASA L’SPACE proposal awarded $10,000 in seed funding for a 12-month implementation at NASA Marshall Space Flight Center.
At the Princeton University Space Physics Laboratory, I evaluated the composition and detection efficiency of entrance foils for electrostatic analyzers used in NASA space plasma instruments. At the Department of Energy’s Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL), I work with the MRX/FLARE group on the redesign of an Electron Energy Analyzer (EEA) for the Magnetic Reconnection Experiment (MRX). My research was recognized with two American Physical Society Division of Plasma Physics Outstanding Student Presentation Awards (2025, 2026). Beyond laboratory research, I have also worked at NASA Headquarters in the Planetary Science Division to examine PI career pathways and mission outcomes.
I am passionate about science policy and advocacy. I currently serve as a Research Translation Platform Policy Implementation Intern with the Penn State Evidence-to-Impact Collaborative (EIC), where I support efforts to strengthen the translation of research evidence into policymaking. I also act as Princeton’s Student Ambassador to the American Physical Society and am an organizing member of the Scientist Network for Advancing Policy (SNAP), state lead for the Stance on Science congressional initiative, Local Science Partner and SPA Student Board Member for the American Geophysical Union, and selected Delegate for the NCAC Space Generation Workshop.
Looking ahead, I have a long-term goal of contributing to space missions, pursuing my interest in space plasma instrumentation research.
Ramesh Pattar
Alumni
I’m passionate about turning complex engineering challenges into real-world solutions, from designing competition-ready robots to contributing to astronomical research. As a General Engineering freshman at Texas A&M University, I’m building on my experience in mechanical design, aerospace systems, and data-driven problem-solving while exploring opportunities in aerospace, mechanical engineering, and Formula EV. Through FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC), I’ve designed and fabricated 20+ robot subsystems using Fusion 360 and analyzed data from 400+ matches to guide strategic decisions. As Lead Design Engineer in NASA’s High School Aerospace Scholars program, I dedicated 75+ hours to designing a lunar habitat and collaborated with 17+ NASA teams. I’ve also contributed to the NASA Lucy and Southwest Research Institute asteroid Menoetius occultation project and analyzed 50,000+ photometric data points for astronomical research. Beyond technical work, I’ve led STEM outreach initiatives as Vice President of the Texas Astronomical Society and a NASA Astro Camp coordinator, helping make science more accessible to students. These experiences have strengthened my skills in CAD design, prototyping, data analysis, technical communication, and cross-functional collaboration. I’m eager to apply these skills to challenging engineering projects, continue learning from industry professionals, and contribute to innovations in aerospace, propulsion, and advanced vehicle systems. I’m always open to connecting with fellow engineers, researchers, and professionals who share a passion for innovation and discovery.
Andrew Yu
Alumni
[WIP]
Amelia Menezes
Alumni
Hey yall! My name is Amelia Menezes and I’m from Coppell, Texas. I’m 100% committed to A&M and majoring in aerospace engineering in the honors college! I love shopping, traveling, working out, going to concerts, getting sweet treats, and side quests! I’m looking forward to getting involved in different orgs on campus and attend St. Mary’s Church! I already have a roommate but I would love to meet new people so please reach out! Gig em!!
Christina Ding
Alumni
[WIP]
Micheal Manders
Alumni
[WIP]
Zoe Roush
Alumni
