Director's Message

Dear students and colleagues,

We are starting a new year by being confronted with many uncertainties that could include potentially devastating reductions in federal funding for research in higher education settings.  We all realize how damaging this would be not simply for our own personal growth but for the innovations in technology and bio-medical know-how that grow the economies of California and the US.  As graduate students, you are the next generation of this creative force, and this pushback must be particularly disheartening.  While trying not to fall back to platitudes, I hope that my annual message serves as a mini reminder of what makes us strong.  First and foremost, you are a very successful group of scientists. Second, we, as a program, will be behind you and will continue to work hard to secure funding for your education and our joint research projects.  Third, we, as a program, are also strong because we can recognize our shortcomings and will continue to work on how to improve.  I am fortunate to be able to work with our incredible team of program manager, Leleña Avila, and program coordinator, Peony Yu, to continue to achieve these goals. Finally, our community and the University remains committed to promoting diversity, inclusion, equity and belonging.