Celebrating Researchers
on the Rise
At the University of Arizona, we confront real-world challenges head-on. From space exploration to healthcare tech, we're making discoveries and developing solutions that shape a brighter future for real people.
At the heart of the university’s vibrant research efforts are dedicated faculty, staff, and students whose expertise, fresh ideas, and genuine enthusiasm drive their work.
Regardless of the paths that lead each one of them to U of A, these Wildcats are united by a common belief in the power of curiosity, collaboration, and creativity to solve problems and create a better world. Through Rising Stars of Research, we're showcasting a group of dynamic, ambitious researchers who are making significant contributions to their respective fields and are poised for even more remarkable achievements to come.
The Office of Research, Innovation & Impact is pleased to introduce the Rising Stars of Research.
Joey Blankinship
Joey Blankinship, associate professor of Microbial Biogeochemistry, is the founding director of the Desert Agriculture Soil Health Initiative (DASHI). His research crosses biology, chemistry, physics and engineering to find ways to improve soil and plant health, restore ecosystem functions, and sustain desert agriculture
Alex Craig
Alex Craig, assistant professor of Aerospace-Mechanical Engineering, serves as director of the Boundary-Layer Stability & Transition Laboratory. His research primarily focuses on the experimental study of high-speed and hypersonic boundary layers.
Tally Largent-Milnes
Tally Largent-Milnes, associate professor of Pharmacology, serves as co-director of the Center for Excellence in Addiction Studies Behavioral Core. Her research focuses on trigeminal synaptic physiology, neuropathic pain and rational design of multifunctional compounds to treat chronic pain.
Malak Tfaily
Malak Tfaily, an associate professor in the Department of Environmental Science, leads a team to answer how, where and when organic matter formation and degradation takes place in different ecosystems. She admits that her research may seem complex, but this ecosystem scientist aims to provide insights into what drives life around us.
Megan Senseney
Megan Senseney, associate librarian and department head of research engagement for University Libraries, leads a team dedicated to emerging specialty areas within academic librarianship. Her research focuses on the social dimensions of data-intensive research initiatives.
Ryan Sprissler
Ryan Sprissler, associate director of operations of Research Cores on campus, has a particular research focus on clinical human genetics and understanding the role of genetics in human disease onset, progression and response to treatment.
Paul Wagner
Paul Wagner, associate professor of Practice in the College of Applied Science and Technology (CAST) is primarily focused on research related to cybersecurity education, training, workforce development and penetration testing. A 20-year Army veteran, he describes cybersecurity as a discipline that impacts all of us, while remaining accessible to everyone.
Chantelle Warner
Chantelle Warner, professor of German and Second Language Acquisition and Teaching, co-directs the Center for Educational Resources in Culture, Language and Literacy (CERCLL). Her research crosses the fields of applied linguistics, stylistics/poetics and literary studies. She supports undergraduate students and graduate assistant teachers as the Language Program Director for German Studies.