2026-2027 Student Research Scholars

The Grimm Family Center for Agricultural Business at California State University, Bakersfield is excited to host our annual Student Research Symposium in the Dezember Reading Room of the Walter W. Stiern Library. The Student Research Symposium will provide students the opportunity to present their current research relating to the topic of agriculture. The Grimm Family Center for Agricultural Business selected the students based on applications and recommendations from CSUB faculty. This year’s cohort included the following students: Chance Kophamer, Manuel Quintanilla, Maria Rodriguez, Frankie West.

Chance Kophamer

Chance Kophamer is a first-year graduate student pursuing a Master of Science in Biology at California State University, Bakersfield. Raised in a farming family, Chance’s interest in biology developed at an early age. He became fascinated by microbiology during his time as an undergraduate at CSUB, where he earned a B.S. in Biology. His interests have since expanded to plant–microbe interactions, soil microbial ecology, extremophile biology, and astrobiology. Chance’s current research focuses on arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) native to agricultural soils in Kern County. These beneficial fungi form symbiotic relationships with plant roots and can improve access to nutrients and water. His research aims to develop and validate methods for tracking and quantifying native AMF populations in local agricultural soils, providing tools that can support future studies of their roles in plant health and agricultural systems. After completing his master’s degree, Chance aims to continue conducting research and pursue a PhD.

Manuel Quintanilla

Manuel Quintanilla is a second year master’s student in the Master of Science in Biology program at California State University, Bakersfield. He began his college career at Taft College earning an Associates degree before transferring to and completing his Bachelor of Science in Biology at CSUB. While working for his undergraduate degree in biology Manuel took an interest in microbiology particularly in bacteriology and virology. He is currently working on his thesis that merges those two interests investigating the potential use of a bacteriophage as a biocontrol agent against a plant pathogenic bacterium. After successfully defending his thesis he plans to continue his education and obtain a PhD in virology. Manuel hopes to continue studying the use of bacteriophages against bacterial pathogens and pursue a career as a professor

Maria Rodriguez

Maria Rodriguez is a first-generation Chicana student at California State University, Bakersfield, majoring in Public Health with a minor in Chemistry. As the daughter of immigrant parents, she grew up in California's Central Valley and developed a passion for understand the health challenges faced by both children and adults, particularly in underserved communities. Under the mentorship of Dr. Chia Thao, Maria is conducting research on Valley Fever and its impact on farmers and farmworkers. Living with autoimmune diseases has influenced her interest in health equity, immunology, and patient advocacy. Through both her research and personal experiences, she has become passionate about improving healthcare for underserved communities and helping others feel seen and supported. Maria hopes her journey encourages other students living with chronic illnesses to pursue their educational goals despite the obstacles they may face. She plans to continue her education and explore opportunities in biomedical research, immunology, and community health

Frankie West

Frankie West is an undergraduate student pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Engineering at California State University, Bakersfield. Frankie’s interests include agriculture, water quality, and sustainability, Frankie is conducting research under the guidance of Dr. Gyeong Sung Kim. The project explores the use of plasma activated water as a sustainable treatment for reducing gray mold and preserving the quality of table grapes. In addition to research, Frankie works as a Student Assistant with the California State Water Resources Control Board, Division of Drinking Water. This experience has provided opportunities to learn about drinking water quality, regulatory compliance, data analysis, and the protection of public health. Previous participation in the USDA E-FARMS program also helped Frankie develop a foundation in engineering research and collaborative problem solving. Frankie is motivated to apply the knowledge and skills gained through education, research, and professional experience to real world challenges involving water quality, agricultural sustainability, and public health.