Prize Recipient

Marc Martinez

Background:

My name is Drew Martinez and I will be a completing my senior year at Stanford University in 2006/2007. I study physics in hopes that I will gain at least a glimmer of insight about the truths of the world around me. During my undergraduate career, I have been involved in biophysics research and hope to conduct my graduate school research in this area. Currently, I am studying molecular motor proteins via optical and magnetic trapping in the laboratory of Steven Block. I also have done work in IBM Almadens TEM microscopy laboratory, where I developed an algorithm to characterize properties of thin film interfaces on magnetic nano-structures. I enjoy teaching physics to students of all ages and am continually striving to perfect the art of communicating physics to individuals in the classroom and also to the everyday person. I am very proud of my Mexican-American heritage, and I strive to encourage other minority students to pursue careers in the sciences through organizations such as Stanfords Society for Chicano/Latino Engineers and Scientists. Aside from physics, I am a member of the International Carnivorous Plant Society as well as a breeder of 10 different species of poison arrow frogs. I also enjoy collegiate wrestling at Stanford and Muay Thai kickboxing.