Monique Tori Castellanos
Monique Tori Castellanos is a Mexican-American first generation student at Eastern Washington University. She is on a STEM track to pursue a major in forensic science, and currently holds a minor in Spanish. Her past experiences in her field include working in a plant pathology lab by looking at viruses and bacteria within soil and plants at a microscopic level, and working at a covid testing site dealing with hazardous biological waste. Monique Tori is a past selected member of the Math, Engineering, Science, Achievement Program (MESA) at Columbia Basin College. MESA provides support for underrepresented students pursuing a degree in STEM.
Monique was accepted as a McNair Scholar in winter of 2023. Monique is passionate about representation within her field, and expressing herself with color. She loves to spend any extra time she has thrifting, cooking with her abuela, and exploring Spokane. Monique’s research was presented August 15, 2024 at the McNair Summer Research Symposium.
2024 EWU Faculty Research Mentor: Dr. Ben Lundgren
Research Title: Janthinobacterium Livdum.
Abstract: This research aims to understand and identify the role of RpoN within the adaptability of Janthinobactierum and the overall properties of this unique bacteria. Furthermore, analyzing multiple quantitative and qualitative measures of of its resistance with antibiotics, growth conditions, and observing if J.lividum can still grow and emit violacion even after use in production. Leading with this data we can make a hypothesis that janthinobacterium holds a key in understanding the bacteria’s resistance to why this bacteria can be found globally.
Another Great Summer of Research at McNair!
