Ali Altamimi is a third-year PhD student in the Chemistry Program at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. His research focuses on computational approaches for advanced plastics recycling, with an emphasis on molecular dynamics simulations and thermodynamic modeling for the Solvent-Targeted Recovery and Precipitation (STRAP) technology developed at UW–Madison. He also integrates simulation tools with machine learning techniques to support the development of cleaner polymer systems, including non-fluorinated adhesives. Ali is interested in pursuing a career in consulting and patent law, where he can apply scientific innovation to real-world impact.
Billy Erazo completed his PhD research on host–pathogen interactions in toxoplasmosis, focusing on how the intracellular parasite Toxoplasma gondii modulates host immune responses and programmed cell death pathways. With seven years of biomedical research experience and an MBA focused on technology strategy and product management, Billy is interested in becoming a Clinical Product Manager, bridging scientific innovation, commercialization, and the development of impactful clinical products.
Mikaela Seeman is a 5th-year PhD candidate in the Integrated Program in Biochemistry (IPiB). Her research investigates the structural and biochemical basis of the RNA-binding protein FUBP3 and its interactions with poly-UG RNA and other nucleic acids. As Director of Finance at WiSolve Consulting Group, Mikaela oversees financial planning and resource management while contributing to client projects. She is interested in consulting within the life sciences and biotechnology industries, where she aims to apply her scientific expertise and strategic thinking to support innovation and business growth.
Azka Ahmed is a PhD candidate whose research focuses on the role of vitamin D in the immune response to tuberculosis. Using wet lab experiments and computational modeling, she studies immune signaling networks and cytokine regulation during bacterial infection. At WiSolve Consulting Group, Azka is interested in applying her scientific training and analytical skills to real-world challenges in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and management consulting.
Madilyn Ellis, Director of Internal Operations
Madilyn Ellis is a fourth-year PhD student in the Cancer Biology Program at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. Her research focuses on virus-associated cancers, which account for approximately 15–20% of human malignancies. Specifically, she studies the regulation of transcription and genome copy number of Epstein–Barr virus, a human DNA tumor virus. Madilyn plans to pursue a career in biopharmaceutical research and development and is passionate about leveraging molecular biology to improve patient outcomes.
Chris is a fourth-year PhD candidate in the Neuroscience Training Program and the Department of Integrative Biology. Her research focuses on understanding how the brain interprets sensory environments and uses that information to guide movement. Chris is interested in applying scientific training to strategy-focused roles, with career interests in consulting and venture capital.
Usha Polaki is a PhD candidate in the Molecular and Environmental Toxicology Program. Her research focuses on understanding the tumor-suppressive role of the transcription factor GATA2 in uterine serous carcinoma. As Director of Communications and Technology at WiSolve Consulting Group, Usha manages the organization’s digital presence and oversees communications strategy. She is passionate about bridging science and strategy, with career interests in biotechnology consulting and innovation at the interface of research and business.
Tara is a PhD candidate studying motor neuron axon guidance during development. Her research focuses on the mechanisms growth cones use to breach the basal lamina surrounding the spinal cord and navigate to their peripheral targets. She is interested in applying her scientific training to careers in consulting or intellectual property and licensing management.