Research Week 2026

Research Week 2026 brought together students, faculty, and researchers for a week of engaging presentations, exciting competitions, and celebrations of student achievement in research and innovation.

One of the highlights of the week was the 3-Minute Thesis (3MT) Undergraduate Research Competition, where students showcased their research and communication skills in a fast-paced and dynamic format. The competition featured two tracks representing a variety of disciplines and outstanding student work.

Track 1 Winners:
1st Place: Alejandro Sanchez (Mechanical Engineering)
2nd Place: Frida Melgar (Civil Engineering)
3rd Place: Henry Amador (Mechanical Engineering)

Track 2 Winners:
1st Place: Inca Stienhans (Biochemistry)
2nd Place: Nathan Venegas (Biochemistry)
3rd Place: Daniel Yang (Analytical Chemistry)

Research Week also celebrated the accomplishments of students participating in the Annual Student Symposium and related research competitions. Congratulations to Nathan Venegas (B.S. Biochemistry), who represented Cal State LA at the 40th CSU Student Research Competition!

During the symposium, students presented their research through oral and poster presentations, demonstrating the breadth of innovation and scholarship across multiple disciplines. Special recognition goes to the recipients of the Outstanding Presentation Awards:

Outstanding Presentation Awards:
• Charlie Sanches (M.S. Mechanical Engineering)
• Eric Gutierrez (M.S. Physics)
• Nathan Venegas (B.S. Biochemistry)

Poster Presentation Awards:
• Frida Melgar and Elizabeth Miranda (B.S. Civil Engineering)
• Tommy Taing (M.S. Materials Science and Engineering)
• Alyssa Madewell (B.S. Mechanical Engineering)

A huge thank you to all students, faculty mentors, organizers, and participants who contributed to making Research Week 2026 a successful and inspiring celebration of research, innovation, and academic excellence.