Roberto Tinoco, PhD
Principal Investigator
& Program Director
Associate Professor, Department of Molecular Biology & Biochemistry
Role in MARCClose
Dr. Tinoco provides overall leadership and strategic direction for the MARC program. He oversees program implementation, ensures alignment with NIH goals, manages budget and reporting, and supervises program leadership and staff. He is also responsible for program evaluation, compliance, and institutional coordination.
Dequina Nicholas, PhD
Co-PI
Director of Research Training & Mentorship
Assistant Professor, Department of Molecular Biology & Biochemistry
Role in MARCClose
Dr. Nicholas directs the research training and mentorship components of the program. She oversees mentor matching, research placements, and training activities to ensure high-quality research experiences and effective mentor–mentee relationships that prepare scholars for graduate study.
Rachael Barry, PhD
Co-PI
Director of Student Academic Development
Associate Professor of Teaching; Co-Director, Microbiology & Immunology Major
Role in MARCClose
Dr. Barry leads the design and implementation of academic support and student development initiatives. She oversees scholar recruitment, retention, advising, and academic skill-building activities that promote student success and progression into biomedical research careers.
Andrei Tatarenkov, PhD
Research & Laboratory
Training Specialist
Hands-on laboratory instruction and research training
Role in MARCClose
Dr. Tatarenkov provides hands-on laboratory instruction and research training. He supports scholars in building foundational research skills and prepares them for advanced research experiences within and beyond UCI.
Reham Riad
Assistant Director
Primary point of contact for MARC scholars
Role in MARCClose
Reham leads program operations and scholar support, overseeing day-to-day program management, scholar advising, activity coordination, and compliance. She supports students from recruitment through graduation, providing continuity, structure, and individualized guidance throughout the MARC experience. Email Reham →