Our Team

Operations ⚙️

Executive Director

Mastura Akter

As founder, I focus on building a platform where students can engage directly with the people shaping research and policy. This forum exists because too many decisions are made without the perspectives of those most affected. I’m here to change that.

Forum Director

Hillary Poalacin

I am a Sophomore at HSLA-MA and I am excited to connect youth to public policy! I aspire to share my love for science with people who see STEM through a black and white lens.

Outreach & Partnerships🤝

Director of
Partnerships

Christine

Marketing & Media📷

Public Relations
Director

Isabella Lin

I am a junior at Hunter College High School and as Director of Public Relations, I oversee the public image and communications of Synapse & State. I aspire to share my passion for neuroscience and research with fellow students and spread awareness for the ongoing changes in research policy.

Technology & Design Director

Brian Zheng

I'm a student at NYU studying IT Systems Management, and as the technology & design director, I lead the development of digital accessibility and ensuring brand consistency. I aim to not only continue learning but to bridge technology with communication.

Media
Manager

Tanisha

Our Team Advisors 💬

Abigail Velikov

Senior Director, Child and Family Resilience & Innovative Partnerships at NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene

Billy Council

Founder of CouncilHim Foundation

Megan Henriquez

Biological Anthropology Student @ CUNY Graduate Center

Candace Rizzi-Wise

Postdoctoral Researcher @ a biological diseases treatment method research start-up

Other Advisors 🥼

Dr. Samuel Gandy

MD & PhD @ Medical University of South Carolina. Currently a Mount Sinai Professor of Alzheimer's Disease Research and researcher in neurology, biology (Cells), Alzheimer's Disease, and more.