Summer 2026 Staff Team

Dennis Raga is an educator passionate about scientific research, student mentorship, and innovative biology education. He completed his postdoctoral fellowship at the Wakayama Medical University in Wakayama, Japan. His areas of expertise include developmental genetics, Pharmacognosy, natural products research, drug discovery and bioactive compounds and expanding innovative access to STEM learning. He is currently an IBDP Biology Educator at Harlem Village Academies, and Adjunct Assistant Professor at the New York City College of Technology - CUNY teaching Intro to Biology and Human Anatomy and Physiology. He has authored more than 25 peer reviewed articles in Developmental Biology, PNAS, Natural Products Research, Pharmacology and Molecular Genetics. In his free time, he enjoys mountain trail hikes, biking, gardening, baking cakes and bread and cooking.

Shamari is an Exercise Science student at SUNY Buffalo, interested in understanding human movement, physical performance and health promotion through research and evidence-based practice. Strong academic interest in exercise physiology, injury prevention, rehabilitation and nutrition. She is committed to developing the knowledge and skills to improve the health and well-being of a diverse population. Shamari aims to contribute to areas of sports performance and clinical exercise and fitness. She is passionate about lifelong learning and making a positive impact helping individuals achieve optimal health through research, clinical and practice.

Madison is a Health and Human Sciences student at the University of Southern California, pursuing the International Health track with a minor in Psychology. She is interested in neuroscience and understanding the connections between brain health, human behavior, and overall well-being. She has a strong academic interest in the intersection of Western medicine and traditional and cultural healing practices, with a focus on how diverse approaches to healthcare can improve health outcomes.

Muzan is a Pharmaceutical Science major and Environmental Science minor at CUNY York College. She is interested in drug development and clinical research through a lens of sustainability and global consciousness. Muzan has a strong academic background in Chemistry and Environmental Advocacy in her participation in Professor-led research labs, volunteer hours, and air pollution centered projects. She is working to create a future of medicine that not only heals us by providing access to all people, but to protect and revive our beautiful planet as well.

Oreo is a lazy and happy dog that loves to say hi to people! He was the mascot for the very first OppNet SSRP team and his joy for science and people lives on with our program!