Brynna is pursuing a B.Sc. in integrated sciences, studying cognitive systems and vertebrate and fungal biology at the University of British Columbia. She is a volunteer with UBC’s MealCare program, helping to reduce food waste and make free meals accessible to the school community. She is also involved in undergraduate research through the UBC REX program, in which she collaborates with other students to create research projects under the guidance of a faculty mentor. Outside of her time at UBC, Brynna also volunteers with a local animal rescue, where she works on animal care and community outreach.

Ellen is pursuing a bachelor of applied science in engineering physics at the University of British Columbia. For one of her Loran summers, she worked with Clear Cambodia in Phnom Penh, designing and prototyping biosand filters to improve access to clean drinking water in rural communities. Previously, she worked at TRIUMF, Canada’s particle accelerator centre, contributing to the TITAN experiment, where she used ion traps to study nuclear structure. Ellen sings in a musical theatre choir and enjoys performance as a creative balance to her technical studies.

Ridhwanlai is pursuing a B.Sc. that integrates computer science and neuroscience. He founded Wake Up Mental Health to destigmatize mental illness through youth-driven storytelling. He also spent one of his Loran summers researching at MIT’s Media Lab, exploring equitable approaches to computer science education. Currently, Ridhwanlai serves as a director with the Paragon Policy Fellowship, connecting students with government partners to co-develop technology policy briefs. Whether tutoring kids in coding, organizing hackathons, or experimenting with poetry at an open mic, Ridhwanlai strives to live each day with intention and curiosity.

Kaitlyn is pursuing a B.Sc. in integrated science, with a specialization in neuroscience and immunology at the University of British Columbia. She has been involved in her community on campus as a volunteer lead for the AMS food bank by organizing activities to promote food security for students. Kaitlyn has completed a project investigating the effects of the SPI1 gene on the progression of Alzheimer’s disease as an undergraduate researcher at the Centre for Brain Health. She is now exploring the correlation between gut health and brain function through a research project focused on host-microbiome interactions in inflammatory bowel disease. In her free time, Kaitlyn enjoys going on hikes and staying active in her French community in Vancouver.

James is enrolled in a B.Sc. in neuroscience at the University of British Columbia. He works in apiary research and education, advocating for pollinator health and creating stronger honeybees. He also spent time at Vancouver General Hospital researching spinal cord injuries and multiple sclerosis, as well as researching MS at UBC Hospital. James shares his passion for science as the president of Flavourful Science, a non-profit that brings food-themed STEM lessons to students in Grades K-8.

Lucas is currently pursuing a degree in environmental engineering at the University of British Columbia, with a strong focus on renewable energy. During his second Loran summer, he worked in Sierra Leone with a social enterprise as an engineering intern, dedicated to developing solar power grids in remote communities across West Africa. At UBC, Lucas serves as an executive member of the student energy team, which is committed to advancing the global energy transition. Outside of academics, he enjoys cooking, playing intramural sports, and carpentry. Whenever possible, he returns to his hometown to mentor youth and volunteer at the local golf course.