SQ Core Staff 2025-2026

Co-Editor-in-Chief: Gabbi Basa, ’27

Neurobiology Major, Communications Minor

Gabbi is a third-year Neurobiology major who joined SQ in her freshman year as a Research Features Writer. In her second year, she returned as an SQ Features Writer, writing about electrical signaling in bacterial biofilms and its potential utility in treating infections. She strongly believes in using creative outlets to spark meaningful discussion and change within her community. After graduation, she plans to attend medical school and pursue a career uniquely suited to her passions for healthcare, writing, and education. Outside of SQ, you can find her penning her speculative fiction column for the UCSD Guardian, leading physics Supplemental Instruction, and tutoring San Diegans in literacy. Contact her at g1basa@ucsd.edu.

 

Co-Editor-in-Chief: Esha Bhattacharya, ’26

Microbiology Major, Computer Science Minor

Esha (she/her) is a fourth year student majoring in Microbiology and minoring in Computer Science. She joined SQ in her first year as an Under the Scope writer, hoping to combine her passions for science and writing, then continued on as a SQ Features writer and editor. Through her time at SQ, she has discovered the importance of transparent science communication and the need to consistently and critically engage with its social implications. As one of her most loved extracurriculars, Esha is honored to end her time in SQ as one of its Editors-in-Chief and serve the community which has given her so much. In her free time, she enjoys breezy walks by ocean, being curled up with a good book, and sipping on crisp iced lattes. To be the victim of her next yap session, reach out to her at ebhattacharya@ucsd.edu.

 

Executive Editor: Mark Davis, ’27

Microbiology and Literary Arts Double Major

Mark (they/he) is a third-year student, majoring in Microbiology and Literary Arts. Before working as Exec. Editor, he joined SQ as a UTS Staff Writer in his first-year, where he developed a deeper love for scientific writing. Mark is passionate about scientific and media literacies, forgotten histories, and public health advocacy. In their free time, they enjoy haunting their favorite cafes, studying and writing poetry, maladaptive daydreaming, listening to instrumental scores to fall asleep, and baking for their friends and family. They are grateful to do work that they feel embodies both the arts and science of language at SQ. Any and all inquiries are welcome; feel free to contact them at mad008@ucsd.edu.

 

Editor-at-Large: Erin Jang, ’27

Neurobiology Major

Erin is a third-year neurobiology major and pre-medical student. She joined Saltman Quarterly at the beginning of her freshman year as a layout designer on the Production committee. Since her involvement in newspaper journalism in high school, she always had a passion for layout and graphic design, which grew alongside her interest in science communication. Her experience working with bringing professional scientific manuscripts to life as well as combining the artwork of design and research led her to become a co-Production Head in her second year. Erin’s heart and appreciation for Saltman Quarterly has grown over the years and is excited to act as the Editor-at-Large, handling numerous administrative responsibilities. When she’s not doing SQ work, she can be found at a cozy local coffee shop enjoying an iced vanilla latte. Feel free to reach out to her at erjang@ucsd.edu.

 

SQ Features Editor: Jadyn Tunnell, ’28

Neurobiology Major and Climate Change & Human Solutions Double Major

Jadyn (she/her) is a second year double major in Neurobiology and Climate Change & Human Solutions. She joined SQ in her first year as a writer for the Online publication, focusing on blending her passion for neuroscience with her goal of expanding scientific education in diverse communities. Through her time working in SQ, she has learned not only how to be a better writer, but she’s discovered the importance of expanding scientific access outwards into underserved areas. In her free time, Jadyn plays for the club indoor and beach volleyball teams and loves to go hiking in San Diego. Contact Jadyn anytime at jtunnell@ucsd.edu

 

UTS Features Editor: Aditya Verma, ’27

Biology: Bioinformatics Major

Aditya (he/him) is a third-year student majoring in Biology with a Specialization in Bioinformatics. He joined SQ during his first year as a UTS Staff writer to make the world of research more accessible. Aditya currently works in the Gur Cohen Lab at the Sanford Consortium, where he studies the intersection of stem cell research and cancer, as well as in the Ross Lab at the Israni Biomedical Research Facility, where he aims to understand the function of several cardiac proteins. Outside of the lab, Aditya is an active member of Project RISHI, dedicated to implementing sustainable projects in Indian villages. For fun, he enjoys playing pickup soccer, watching football, and exploring San Diego with his friends. Feel free to reach out to him at adverma@ucsd.edu.

 

Co-Research Editor: Aarya Vishnu, ’27

Biology: Bioinformatics Major

Aarya is a third-year student majoring in Bioinformatics. He first joined Saltman Quarterly in 2024 as a research features writer in his second year, where he discovered a passion for scientific writing and worked to make research more accessible for a broader, non-biology audience at UCSD. He is currently conducting research at the Daugherty Lab, where he investigates the evolutionary origins of anti-bacterial proteins in animals. Looking ahead, Aarya hopes to continue doing genetic work in graduate school and pursue a career in research. Outside of academics, he loves cooking and baking, going on hikes, and spending time with friends. Feel free to reach out at avishnu@ucsd.edu if you’d like to connect!

 

Co-Research Editor: Jia Bhavnani, ’27

General Biology Major

Jia is a third-year General Biology major in Revelle College. This is her first year with Saltman Quarterly, where she serves as a Research Editor. She joined SQ to combine her love for scientific writing with her growing experience in research, and she is especially passionate about bridging rigorous science with clear, accessible communication, ensuring research can be understood and appreciated by diverse audiences. Beyond SQ, Jia is involved in computational biology projects, exploring systemic lupus erythematosus and RNA-seq analysis, and she serves as a Peer Coach for UC San Diego’s Student Success Coaching Program. She’s excited to help foster a platform where undergraduate voices in science can be celebrated and amplified. When she’s not in the lab or editing, Jia enjoys experimenting with coffee recipes, playing the guitar, and finding creative outlets through writing. You can reach her anytime at jbhavnani@ucsd.edu.

 

Research Features Editor: Ryan Sinha, ’28

Molecular and Cell Biology Major

Ryan is a second year majoring in Molecular and Cellular Biology. He first joined Saltman Quarterly in his first year as a writer for the Winter Insider and served on the Review Board. Inspired by SQ’s mission to make research accessible to everyone while highlighting student research, he now leads the Research Features team. He is currently involved with the UCSD School of Medicine’s LCA Lab, researching the effect of e-cigarettes on lungs. In his free time, Ryan enjoys diving into fantasy books and playing video games, especially Elden Ring and Marvel Rivals. Contact him at rysinha@ucsd.edu to talk about everything from fantasy and games to science and research.

 

 

Review Board Manager: Emma Wong, ’26

Molecular and Cell Biology Major, Bioethics Minor

Emma (she/her) is a fourth-year majoring in molecular and cell biology and minoring in bioethics. She first joined SQ in her second year to learn more about science writing and the editing process. She started off as a review board member and is excited to end her SQ experience as its manager. Outside of SQ, she also volunteers with Youth Empowerment in Science, a student org that runs hands-on science workshops at local elementary schools. She also enjoys reading, spending time with friends and family, and creative writing. To talk about her latest story idea or anything else, please reach out at emw006@ucsd.edu.

 

Online Editor: Vaidehi Zala, ’27

Neurobiology Major, Classical Studies Minor

Vaidehi (she/her) is a third-year Neurobiology major with a minor in Classical Studies. She has been part of Saltman Quarterly for three years, first joining as an extroverted Online Reporter during her freshman year before stepping into her current role as Online Editor. Over time, she has fallen in love with the dynamic energy of the team and discovered a way to blend her enthusiasm for niche STEM topics with her love for writing. Aspiring to become a cardiothoracic surgeon, Vaidehi plans to attend medical school after graduation. Outside of academics, she enjoys hanging out with friends, having cozy movie nights, and attending music concerts with her playlist ranging from Laufey to 21 to Griz. She is also currently involved in UCSD’s Ghosh lab, where she researches the cell biology of signal transduction, focusing on GIV and HIS tagged proteins. If you’d like to connect with Vaidehi for discussion of any subject, feel free to email her at vzala@ucsd.edu!

 

Blogs Editor: Tavishaa Vanjani, ’27

Molecular and Cell Biology Major

Tavishaa (she/her) is a third-year student majoring in Human Biology with a minor in South Asian Studies. She hopes to build a career that connects health, education, and community advocacy. Her background includes working as a Medical Assistant in pediatrics and exploring how culture shapes care. She joined the SQ team in her second year as a podcast team member, and then became the Blog Editor her third year. She enjoys helping students share their stories and what interests them through all kinds of creative mediums. When not watching biology YouTube videos, she loves shopping, singing, and spending time with her friends and family, especially her younger sister. If you’d like to connect, you can reach her at tvanjani@ucsd.edu, she’s always up for a coffee chat!

 

Co-Production Editor: Himangi Sharma, ’26

Microbiology Major

Himangi Sharma (she/her) is a fourth-year (second-year transfer) Microbiology major in Marshall College. She began her Saltman Quarterly journey her first year on campus as a UTS Designer, working on layouts for the UTS Magazine and Insider Editions. At the end of the year, she learned so much that she felt motivated to continue as a Head of Production, now managing the team she once was a member of. For her, graphic design is a very fulfilling medium to bridge her artistic side and her scientific mind to make science writing more accessible and fun! Fun fact: Himangi has written for two Insider Editions, once about cellular stress and another about immunological harmony! In her free time, Himangi enjoys reading at the beach, dancing Bollywood, making new friends, and eating/cooking.

 

Co-Production Editor: Sanji Kumar, ’27

General Biology and Biochemistry Double Major

Sanji is a third year student, double majoring in general biology and biochemistry. She is on the pre-research tract, hoping to work in genetics research! She joined SQ her second year in hopes of continuing her editing journey while combining it with her love for biology. In her free time, she loves to watch the beach sunsets, surfing, and complete various crafts. She also enjoys a healthy amount of show binging and bed rotting. Feel free to email her at sak040@ucsd.edu to talk about anything!

 

Head Technical Editor: Shreya Abhijit, ’28

Molecular and Cell Biology Major

Shreya (she/her) is a second-year student majoring in Molecular and Cell Biology. She joined SQ as a technical editor in her first year to learn more about the process behind publishing scientific literature. She has since had amazing experiences working alongside her fellow technical editors, collaborating with multiple SQ teams, and improving her editing skills. In her free time, she loves discovering new cafes, perfecting her pasta recipes, and obsessively organizing her Spotify playlists. If you would like to reach out to discuss any shared interests or prospective editing roles, you can contact her at sabhijit@ucsd.edu.

 
 

Head Illustrator (Print): Leo Harris, ’27

Ecology, Behavior, and Evolution Major, Marine Science Minor

Leo (they/them) is a third-year Ecology Behavior & Evolution major and Marine Science minor. They started in SQ the beginning of their freshman year as an illustrator, aiming to find new and creative ways to challenge themself both as a growing scientist and artist. Passionate for all things ornithology, Leo currently studies microplastics in seabirds at Scripps Institute of Oceanography, building collisions in migratory birds with the San Diego Bird Alliance, and avian influenza in gulls at a lab back in Boston (their hometown). When they’re not occupied with work, you can find them crafting little gifts for their friends or seeking out the next best smoothie spot. If you have any questions about scientific illustration or bird research on campus, feel free to reach them at liharris@ucsd.edu!

 

Head Illustrator (Online): Jenna Hughes, ’28

Studio Art Major

Jenna Hughes is a 2nd year transfer Studio Art major who uses art as an outlet for her fascination with biology. She brings curiosity into each illustration she creates. As Head Illustrator for Online SQ, Jenna helps the art side of research running smoothly: coordinating deadlines, assigning projects, and bridging communication between the illustrators and the Online SQ editing team. She thrives on collaboration, supporting her team’s ideas while designing pieces of her own that make complex scientific concepts easy to visualize and an engaging read. Outside of SQ, Jenna can usually be found painting, reading, listening to music, petting people’s pets, or planning to start her surfing era soon.

 

Media Director: Jino Ebrahimi, ’27

General Biology Major

Jino Ebrahimi is a third-year General Biology major at UC San Diego. She joined Saltman Quarterly last year as a Media Analyst and continues to explore her passion for science communication. Jino aspires to attend dental school and open her own clinic in the future. Currently, she works and shadows at a dental clinic, gaining valuable hands-on experience with patients and clinical operations. Outside of academics, Jino loves watching YouTube videos and movies, crocheting, and doing arts and crafts. She enjoys finding creative ways to balance her studies, hobbies, and professional goals, all while working toward making a positive impact in her future career.

 

 

Head Photographer: Inaya Nicholls, ’26

Molecular and Cell Biology Major, Environmental Systems Minor

Inaya (she/her) is a fourth-year Molecular and Cell Biology major with a minor in Environmental Systems. She joined SQ as a photographer during her first year and has enjoyed capturing science in a way that feels approachable and genuine, while still highlighting the wonder and complexity behind it.
Outside of academics, Inaya spends as much time as possible outdoors, whether hiking, road-tripping to national parks, or photographing wildlife. Her other interests include expanding her collection of house plants, experimenting with new baking recipes, and ceramics. Feel free to reach out at inicholls@ucsd.edu or view more of her photography at inayanichollsphotography.mypixieset.com

 

Community Outreach Coordinator: Bien Dela Cruz, ’28

Human Biology Major

My name is Bien Dela Cruz, and I am currently a second-year Human Biology major. I joined SQ as a community outreach member during my first year. The guidance of mentors has been invaluable in helping me navigate both academics and research, and it has inspired me to do the same for others. I hope to give back by creating opportunities for students and community members to engage with science in meaningful and accessible ways. When I’m not stressing over practice midterms or accidentally contaminating my tissue culture medium, you can usually find me baking new desserts, rereading my favorite novels, or eating anything in sight. Feel free to reach out at bidelacruz@ucsd.edu.

 

Podcast Director: Lan Gao, ’27

Molecular and Cell Biology Major

Lan is a third-year student majoring in molecular and cell biology. She was first involved in SQ as a writer for the Insider publication in 2024. She wrote an article about bi-maternal reproduction, which involves developing a zygote from two eggs/oocytes. She then joined the SQ podcast team, SQ’USE ME?, hosting episodes and interviewing various extraordinary researchers at UCSD. Now taking on the leadership role of SQ’USE ME?, Lan hopes to continue publishing intriguing and educational podcast episodes about various topics in biology, as well as mentoring new members in their journeys of science communication. Her goal after graduation is to attend PhD program and advance her career in research; she also wants to keep being involved in science communication (her role models are Bill Nye and the Green Brothers). Outside of SQ, Lan finds her passion in cancer research, guitar, songwriting, and photography. To talk about biology, research, music, and reading, feel free to reach out to her through email: l5gao@ucsd.edu