Amber Josfin Pineda is one of eight undergraduate students nationwide selected to participate in Purdue University's 2026 Summer Research Experience, a program that prepares students for advanced research and graduate study.
Pineda, a second-year University of Guam (UOG) engineering student, will attend the 10-week program through Purdue Polytechnic Institute, which focuses on "built-environment decarbonization."
"I've always been interested in academia and research, so I'm excited that this opportunity allows me to develop new skills while connecting with people who share the same passion," Pineda said.
According to UOG, the program brings together undergraduate researchers from across the country to develop "innovative strategies to reduce carbon emissions in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings."
Pineda will work alongside Purdue faculty and graduate student mentors to conduct interdisciplinary research using artificial intelligence, digital twins and Internet of Things sensing platforms.
The opportunity builds on Pineda's research experience through the NASA Guam Space Grant program and aboard the research vessel E/V Nautilus.
"I also care deeply about using engineering to support sustainability. It's important that we develop and apply technology in ways that benefit the Earth we all share," Pineda said.
During the program, Pineda plans to explore how urban and socioeconomic data can support infrastructure planning and help create more sustainable communities.
"Explore every resource," Pineda said. "Talk to your professors because they may have opportunities within their networks that align with your interests."
Pineda hopes to use knowledge gained from the experience to advance sustainable construction and infrastructure development on Guam.