Research and Innovation
Aaron Melaas, Ph.D.
Associate Director for Research and Innovation
Director Asociado de Investigación e Innovación
Responsible for directing multi-campus, multi-disciplinary research programs and projects involving collaboration between UC faculty, students, and researchers and partner institutions in Mexico. Also responsible for the coordination of historic programs through UC MEXUS as well as the development and execution of new binational initiatives in innovation and entrepreneurship.
Anaid Linares Rojas
Research Engagement Coordinator
Coordinadora de Vinculación de Investigación
Responsible for engaging with representatives from higher education, government, and other organizations to enhance research development opportunities; designing, implementing, and evaluating binational research programs; and coordinating events and other academic activities from Casa de la Universidad de California in Mexico City.
Jail Ixel Cruz García
Strategic Initiatives Engagement Coordinator
Coordinadora de Iniciativas Estratégicas de Investigación
Coordinates engagement between UC researchers and non-academic stakeholders, including governments, NGOs, and the private sector, to advance binational initiatives like the transition to zero-emission vehicles (ZEV) and other strategic projects funded by AlianzaMX, such as migration economics, farmworker health, and water management. Identify future research opportunities relevant to US-Mexico relations, covering areas like sustainable development, climate change, and biodiversity. Lead and supervise interns, setting clear objectives and timelines, and collaborate on integrating students from the Climate Ambassadors Program into the Research and Innovation team, including defining roles and participating in their selection process.
JULIO SOSA
Academic Research and Programs Officer
Oficial de Investigación y Programas Académicos
Responsible for coordinating research and academic programs, including UC MEXUS Programs and other initiatives, tracking ongoing research supported by Alianza MX, supporting Mexican graduate students enrolled in the UC system, and helping UC students find research opportunities in Mexico.
Education and Training
Andrea Galván Vélez
Associate Director of Academic Exchange and Continuing Education
Directora Asociada de Intercambio Académico y Educación Continua
Responsible for engaging with higher education, government, and non-profit and private sector organizations from both California and Mexico interested in promoting educational exchanges. The Associate Director of Student Affairs and Extension is responsible for the development, implementation, and ongoing assessment of programs, courses, events, and other academic activities from Casa de la Universidad de California in Mexico.
Yazmín Salazar Romero
Responsible for providing administrative support to the Academic Exchange and Continuing Education team; as for example, through the Climate Ambassadors Initiative and more.
Operations
Julianna Hernandez
Associate Director of Operations for Alianza MX
Directora Asociada de Operaciones de Alianza MX
Responsible for providing oversight of the operational and administrative activities of Alianza MX. Also provides guidance and direction to staff at both locations and coordinates and helps implement systemwide agreements with mexican agencies and academic institutions.
Veronica Barroso
Associate Director of Operations for Casa de California
Directora Asociada de Operaciones de Casa de California
Responsible for overseeing the administration and development of activities as well as providing logistical support for special events from Casa de la Universidad de California en México.
Antonio Alvarado Padilla
Outreach and Communication Coordinator
Coordinador de Comunicación y Difusión
Responsible for coordinating activities to implement and improve the outreach, events, and communication strategy that supports the UC Alianza MX program.