Meet The Team

Shefail Roy

Biology Health Professions

My name is Shefali Roy, and I am a sophomore at Kean University majoring in Biology with a concentration in Health Professions. During my freshman year, I participated in the CURF FRI program, which sparked my passion for research while strengthening my skills in public speaking and critical thinking. I was honored to present at the 2025 Research Days, and I now serve as a Research Ambassador at the CURF office, helping to promote student involvement in research. Beyond academics, I am actively engaged on campus through Cougar Volunteers, CLS, and several other student organizations. Looking ahead, I am committed to working diligently, staying focused on my goals, and building a future career in the health professions.

Lana Surzhko

Psychology

I am a senior at Kean University graduating in May 2026. My work spans trauma research, clinical care, and behavioral science. I placed in the top three in the 2020 Halmos Colleges of Arts and Sciences Case Study Competition, where my team analyzed community-wide responses to the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School shooting and explored long-term trauma recovery models. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant caring for residents with dementia, which sparked my interest in attention disorders and cognitive decline—later supported by emerging NIH and Rutgers research. At Kean, I strengthened my empirical skills by designing and analyzing a naturalistic observational study on helping behavior. Since 2025, I’ve worked as a Registered Behavioral Technician at Shape to Success, supporting communication, regulation, and daily living skills for a child with autism. I also assist Dr. Aditi Vijay with research on cultural orientation and emotion regulation in borderline personality disorder, examining how cultural mismatch may shape x and belonging.

I am currently applying to Clinical Psychology PhD programs, aiming to become a board-certified Clinical Neuropsychologist and clinical researcher.

Noorul Sama Sahel

Computer Science

I’m a senior at Kean University majoring in Computer Science with a strong interest in applied research across AI, healthcare, and robotics. As a Research Ambassador, I want to help students see that research isn’t just for experts; it’s something anyone can explore with curiosity and support. I’ve worked on breast cancer diagnostic tools using deep learning and spent a summer researching robotics at Princeton. I’m especially passionate about helping first-generation students and others who aren’t sure where to begin to get started with confidence.

Ted Saget

Computer Science

I am a student at Kean University going through second year as a Computer Science Major. I actively involved in summer research programs. I plan to pursue a career as a software developer, with strong interests in machine learning and how it can be used as a tool to aid and enhance our daily activities.

Zion Mabuchi

Finance

I am a junior Finance major with Korean-Japanese heritage, currently serving as the Social Media Manager for the Center for Undergraduate Research & Fellowships (CURF). I create engaging and strategic digital content to elevate CURF’s visibility and connect students with research opportunities. As an ESTP (=MBTI), I bring creativity, adaptability, and a results-driven mindset to every project I work on.

Amber Ruiz

Graphic Design

I’m a senior Graphic Design major at Kean University with a passion for bold visual storytelling. My work spans graphic design, photography, and motion, combining creativity and strategy to turn ideas into impactful visuals. Driven by curiosity and collaboration, I joined the Center for Undergraduate Research to help market and promote their studies and programs through thoughtful, engaging design.

Doaa Abdelazem

General Management

I am an international student and a full-time Graduate Assistant at the Center for Undergraduate Research and Fellowships (CURF). I am currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Global Management, and I earned my Bachelor’s degree in General Management from Kean University in 2023.

In my role at CURF, I primarily support the logistics and coordination of departmental programs to ensure that students have a positive and meaningful research experience. I also assist in organizing Research Days and other CURF events, working closely with students, faculty, and staff to help create well-structured and engaging research opportunities.

I am passionate about supporting students, contributing to research-focused initiatives, and helping build an inclusive and supportive academic environment at Kean University.