Celebrating Success of DF/HCC Scholars at ABRCMS 2025

Published  12/16/2025

From November 19-22 in San Antonio, Texas, thousands of young researchers gathered at the Annual Biomedical Research Conference for Minoritized Scientists (ABRCMS). One of the nation’s premier undergraduate and postbaccalaureate research conferences, ABRCMS brings together students from across the globe to present their work, expand their networks, and engage in professional development.

Among these high achievers were 18 scholars from the DF/HCC CURE and DF/HCC–UMB U54 REC student research training programs, who presented research conducted in laboratories across DF/HCC member institutions and UMass Boston. The effort was coordinated by Brittany Michel, PhD and Julia Miller, who provided comprehensive preparation and on-site support for participants.

Three scholars won awards for outstanding poster presentations:

• Martina Wecera – DF/HCC CURE & PICI Post-Baccalaureate Scholar – Rashidian Lab (DFCI)
• Jaiden Burney – Ritz Lab (DFCI)
• Mathena Nguyen – Kranzusch Lab (DFCI)

Presenting at conferences like ABRCMS is pivotal for young trainees to develop the skills and confidence to thrive in STEM careers. Alongside presenting their work and practicing scientific communication skills, scholars fielded questions from judges and other students, positioning themselves as the expert in the room on their research projects. Meeting other young people interested in science, including those who might have similar backgrounds or experiences, also builds their sense of belonging, a critical component of retention in STEM.

Student reflections on their ABRCMS experience underscore the impact of early exposure and hands-on training:

• I felt most like a scientist during my poster session when people asked me in-depth questions about the aspirin–tryptophan pathway and my organoid work. Being able to explain my experiments clearly and talk through the logic behind them made me realize how much I’d grown. It felt really good to stand there and think, “Wow, I actually know this.”. It meant a lot to see all the work I put in actually come to life in conversation. – Kehinde Olawepo, Undergraduate Student at Alabama A&M University
• I truly came out of ABRCMS feeling like a new person and a true scientist. This conference made me feel like I have potential, confidence, and passion in the work that I do. It was amazing to meet such incredible people and I became closer than ever to the CURE students that traveled with me. From the bottom of my heart, your support has changed my life and career as a scientist; I am forever grateful. -Mathena Nguyen, Undergraduate Student at University of Massachusetts Amherst
• Presenting at ABRCMS made me realize that my project is meaningful and that I really do want a future in cancer research. It showed me that I’m on the right path with grad school and research careers. -Kaiyah Robinson, Undergraduate Student at Allen University

Thank you to the mentors, staff, and partners across DF/HCC institutions whose guidance and support made this year’s ABRCMS a resounding success. The CURE Program looks forward to continuing to support and celebrate the achievements of its students and alumni in the years to come.

Learn more about these student research Programs: CURE-Summer Only | YES for CURE | CURE RAI | Post-Bacc

Consider Mentoring a CURE Student:

The training of students within these programs is made possible thanks to the zealous efforts of the mentors. Sign up to become a mentor and learn about this mentorship opportunity. Please reach out to the CURE team at iecd@partners.org for more information.