USA
Founding Member
Danith H. Ly
Danith was born in Cambodia in 1972 and survived the Khmer Rouge regime. In 1984, he emigrated to the United States and later attended the International Baccalaureate Program at St. Petersburg High School, Florida. He earned a B.S. in Chemical Engineering with a Minor in Philosophy and a Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry from the Georgia Institute of Technology. He completed postdoctoral research under Prof. Peter G. Schultz at UC Berkeley and the Scripps Research Institute. Currently, he is a Professor of Chemistry at Carnegie Mellon University. A passionate advocate for Khmer STEM, Danith maintains a deep love for his people and cultural heritage.
Carnegie Mellon University (CMU)
Email: dly@andrew.cmu.edu
Founding Member
Seanmory Sothy
Seanmory, from Phnom Penh, Cambodia, is a Ph.D. candidate in Chemical Biology at UC Riverside, researching mitochondrial DNA damage. A top national graduate and recipient of Cambodia’s Prime Minister’s Academic Award, he earned a B.S. in Chemistry from Murray State University on a full scholarship, graduating summa cum laude. In 2023, he joined UC Riverside under the Chancellor’s Distinguished Fellowship. Passionate about chemical tools and mentoring, he leads the Cambodian Student Association in the U.S. and supports underserved students. His vision is to create a world-class research and teaching hospital in Cambodia, advancing both science and healthcare.
University of California Riverside (UCR)
Email: seanmory1@gmail.com
Founding Member
Kimchou Lao
Kimchou, from Siem Reap, Cambodia, pursued her dream of studying in the U.S., starting at Pasadena City College before graduating as Valedictorian and McPhee Scholar from Cal Poly Pomona in Biological Sciences. A first-generation student, her passion for pharmaceuticals grew through research and a pivotal partnership with Gilead Sciences. Accepted into four Ph.D. programs, she chose USC’s Organic Chemistry program with a prestigious fellowship. Despite cultural and language challenges, she thrived as a tutor, mentor, and leader. Kimchou aspires to research cancer therapies and hopes to teach in the future to give back through mentorship.
University of Southern California (USC)
Email: laokimchou@gmail.com
Founding Member
Catherosette Meas
Rosette, originally from Phnom Penh, Cambodia, is a PhD candidate at NYU Tandon School of Engineering, specializing in synthetic biology and mouse genome engineering. Her passion for engineered biological systems began in high school through international bioengineering competitions and continued at the University of La Verne, where her teams earned bronze and silver medals for projects on Moringa-based biodiesel and single-chain insulin synthesis. With five years of experience mentoring students, Rosette is committed to returning to Cambodia to promote hands-on science education and research, aiming to cultivate a stronger foundation for innovation in local classrooms and research communities.
New York University (NYU)
Email: catherosette.m@gmail.com
Founding Member
David Chem
David, originally from Pursat province, is a first-generation college graduate. He began his academic journey abroad with a full scholarship for an International Baccalaureate diploma in Singapore, then earned his B.S. in Chemical Engineering at the University of Oklahoma, also on a full scholarship. After completing his M.S. in 2023, he is now pursuing a Ph.D. at the University of Arkansas. His research focuses on using modified biopolymers in eco-friendly energy storage systems. David aims to inspire young Cambodian scientists from similar backgrounds to pursue higher education and follow their scientific aspirations.
University of Arkansas
Email: david.chem.6143@gmail.com
Founding Member
Challana Tea
Challana, a PhD candidate in Biochemistry and Biophysics at UC San Diego, investigates how chromatin regulators influence neurodevelopmental disorders. He earned his B.S. in Pharmacological Chemistry from UCSD in 2021. Originally from Phnom Penh, Cambodia, Challana is passionate about science outreach and educational equity. He actively engages with underserved youth in both San Diego and Cambodia, striving to make science more accessible and inclusive. Through his research and advocacy, he aims to inspire and empower the next generation of scientists, particularly those from underrepresented and international backgrounds, by connecting cutting-edge science with meaningful community impact.
University of California San Diego (UCSD)
Email: chaletea16@gmail.com
Founding Member
Pichvyda Tuy
Pichvyda (Vyda), originally from Phnom Penh, Cambodia, is a Software Developer at United Airlines and a master’s student in Artificial Intelligence at Indiana Wesleyan University. She holds a Computer Science degree from the University of Houston and has worked across the ed-tech, healthcare, and aviation sectors. Passionate about expanding access to STEM, especially for women, Vyda actively promotes computer science education and mentorship. Her journey reflects a commitment to curiosity, creativity, and determination, aiming to inspire the next generation of coders and innovators to pursue meaningful careers in technology and drive positive change in the world.
Indiana Wesleyan University
Email: tuypichvyda@gmail.com
Founding Member
Saovleak (Noury) Khim
Saovleak “Noury” Khim, originally from Phnom Penh, Cambodia, is a Ph.D. candidate in Neuroscience at the University of Maryland School of Medicine. Her research explores how neural circuits support motor skill learning and flexibility, using in vivo electrophysiology, behavioral analysis, and computational tools. A Temple University honors graduate in Cell and Molecular Neuroscience, she has received NIH support since 2018, including an NRSA F31 fellowship. Noury is deeply committed to science communication and advancing opportunities for underrepresented trainees in neuroscience through community-focused initiatives.
University of Maryland School of Medicine
Email: saovleakkhim@gmail.com
Founding Member
Sokviseth Moeng
Sokviseth, from Phnom Penh, Cambodia, is a PhD student in Medical Sciences at Texas A&M University. He earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Biomedical Sciences in South Korea under the Korean Government Scholarship Program, graduating summa cum laude and as valedictorian. He previously worked at a pharmaceutical company, contributing to early-stage lung and pancreatic cancer biomarker research. Passionate about precision medicine, Sokviseth is committed to advancing biomedical science and improving patient outcomes through innovation and research.
Texas A&M University
Email: sokvisethmoeng@gmail.com
Founding Member
Tepie Meng
Tepie Meng, from Phnom Penh, Cambodia, is a Ph.D. candidate in Physics at Harvard University. Her research explores emergent phenomena in quantum materials, focusing on quantum spin liquids and organic charge-transfer salts using ultrafast optics and advanced scattering techniques. She earned her B.S. in Physics, summa cum laude, from the University of South Florida, where she studied transition metal dichalcogenides and ferroelectrics. Tepie has presented at major physics conferences and actively contributes to collaborative research on light-matter interactions in complex solids.
Harvard University
Email: tepiemeng@gmail.com
Founding Member
Samnangdona An
Born in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, Samnangdona was captivated by communication technology after encountering military antennas and radar domes. This early fascination led him to California in 2013, where he began his academic journey at Long Beach City College and later earned a master’s in Electrical Engineering from CSU Long Beach in 2021, graduating in the top one percent. Formerly an Audio Signal Processing Engineer at Shure Inc., he now focuses on advanced 5G/6G systems, tactical radios, and machine learning. Passionate about mentorship, Samnangdona is committed to inspiring future engineers to explore the evolving frontiers of communication technology.
California State University (CSU) Long Beach
Email: ansamnangz@gmail.com
Founding Member
Sovannarith Korm
Sovannarith Korm, Ph.D., is a Cambodian scientist specializing in cellular and molecular biology, with research focused on senescence, autophagy, and inflammation in aging and cancer. The first in his family to study abroad, he trained across Asia and the U.S., driven by curiosity and resilience. Raised by teacher parents, Sovannarith's path reflects a deep commitment to science and education. His journey is shaped by the enduring support of his wife and son, whose presence brings meaning to every new chapter. Passionate about discovery, he aims to bridge cultures and contribute to global scientific understanding.
Harvard Medical School and Mass General Hospital
Email: ksnarith07@gmail.com
Founding Member
Khantey Lim
Khantey, a first-generation college student from Phnom Penh, Cambodia, received a full scholarship at age 13 to study at UWC Singapore. She went on to earn her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in chemical engineering from Northwestern University with full financial aid. Currently a PhD candidate at Carnegie Mellon University, her research focuses on the intersection of artificial intelligence and science. Outside of academics, Khantey enjoys movies, reading, volleyball, badminton, and volunteering. Her journey reflects a deep commitment to education, global engagement, and interdisciplinary research, driven by resilience, curiosity, and a passion for learning and giving back.
Carnegie Mellon University
Email: khanteylim@gmail.com
Founding Member
Shawn Ehlers-Cheang
Shawn is a Research and Development Scientist at Agilent Technologies, where he drives innovation in biopharma analytical solutions through advanced mass spectrometry. Originally from Poipet, Cambodia, Shawn emigrated to the US as a first-generation college student. He earned his B.S. in Biology from Gordon College, where he discovered a passion for science and innovation that inspired him to pursue a Ph.D. in Chemistry and Chemical Biology at UC Davis. Motivated by his parents’ dream of providing their children with higher education, Shawn is committed to creating opportunities for knowledge seekers and inspiring the next generation of scientists, particularly in underserved communities.
University of California Davis
Email: sehlerscheang@gmail.com
Founding Member
Samnang Elya An
Elya, born and raised in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, is an undergraduate Biochemistry major at UCLA with a strong aspiration to pursue a career in medicine. Her interest in healthcare, particularly dermatology, motivated her to move to the United States to begin her academic journey at Long Beach City College. As a junior at UCLA, she hopes to join research programs that focus on skin cancer or areas within the Health Sciences. She is committed to attending medical school and ultimately pursuing a career as a dermatologist.
University of California Los Angeles
Email: samnangelyaxan@gmail.com
Founding Member
Mengsrun Nit
Mengsrun, a senior at Furman University majoring in Computer Science, hails from Banteay Meanchey, Cambodia. His passion for technology was sparked by a strong foundation in mathematics and an early fascination with gadgets. At Furman, he has focused on software development with a special interest in system design, enjoying projects that bring theoretical concepts into practical application. Driven and curious, Mengsrun aims to begin his professional journey in the tech industry after graduation, with plans to pursue further academic study in the future.
Furman University
Email: nitmengsrun@gmail.com
Founding Member
Viriya Keo
Viriya, originally from Phnom Penh, is a bioinformatician specializing in oncology. She earned her undergraduate degree in biochemistry from Temple University and completed her PhD at Northwestern University in 2025, where she focused on epigenetics in prostate cancer. Now based in Chicago, she works at a diagnostic company, applying computational tools to advance cancer detection and treatment. With a strong foundation in both biology and data science, Viriya is passionate about translating research into real-world impact, particularly in the fight against cancer.
Northwestern University
Email: viriyakeo12@gmail.com
Member
Bruce Ly
Bruce is an Associate at Common Group, a social impact consulting firm, where he supports initiatives that promote equitable education for underrepresented communities. With a Communications degree from the University of Kentucky, he brings skills in financial analysis, project coordination, and strategic communication to his work. Passionate about equity and access, he contributes to transformative projects that create meaningful opportunities for historically underserved populations, blending strategic insight with a strong commitment to social impact and educational justice.
University of Kentucky
Email: bruce@commongroup.org
Member
Davin Sim
Davin , originally from Battambang, Cambodia, began her academic journey in a bilingual Khmer-French high school program with a focus on science. She later pursued undergraduate studies in the United States, where her passion for health and technology deepened. Davin earned her Master’s degree in Biomedical Engineering from Tufts University, where she explored the intersection of innovation and human health. Currently, she works at a biotech startup dedicated to the research and development of novel therapeutics targeting weight management, obesity, and type 2 diabetes, contributing to cutting-edge solutions in metabolic health and advancing patient-centered care.
Tufts University
Email: davinvysim@gmail.com
Member
Natepy Vann
Tepy, a freshman at Augustana College double majoring in Computer Science and Public Health, is originally from Phnom Penh, Cambodia. She co-founded two nonprofits—Power of Sisters, offering free coding education to female students, and Together, which built a library serving over 365 students. Under Stanford mentorship, she conducted and published research on adolescent pregnancy in Cambodia. Passionate about women in tech, Tepy aims to leverage technology to expand healthcare access in underserved communities.
Augustana College
Email: tepyvann25@augustana.edu
Member
Outdomchakriya (Riya) Soth
Riya is a Communications Associate at the App Inventor Foundation, the nonprofit behind MIT App Inventor, a mobile app-building tool used by 25M learners worldwide. Originally from Phnom Penh, Cambodia, she holds a B.S. in Business and Economics from Minerva University and has lived, learned, and worked across seven countries, exploring education through roles at Technovation and StudyKit. She has founded and scaled student-focused communities such as Notion@Minerva and Cambodian Kakehasher, creating inclusive spaces for learning and collaboration. She plans to pursue a master’s degree in education and technology to design and scale equitable learning experiences.
Minerva University (currently at App Inventor Foundation)
Email: riya.s@uni.minerva.edu
Member
Puthyda Keath
Puthyda is a clinical researcher in Radiation Oncology at the OHSU Knight Cancer Institute, dedicated to improving cancer patient outcomes through research in radiation medicine. Originally from Banteay Meanchey, Cambodia, she received a full five-year scholarship to attend the United World College (UWC) in Singapore for high school. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from Lewis & Clark College and completed her Master of Public Health at Oregon Health & Science University in 2023.
Oregon Health & Science University
Email: puthydakeath@gmail.com
Member
Sotramony Bun
I am currently working as a structural engineer at a structural engineering firm in Los Angeles. I completed my undergraduate studies in Civil Engineering at the Institute of Technology of Cambodia and earned dual master’s degrees in Structural Engineering and Construction Engineering & Management from the University of Michigan in 2024. I am passionate about engineering and hope to see more Cambodian students pursue STEM fields and build impactful careers.
University of Michigan
Email: bunsmony@umich.edu
Member
Menghong An
Menghong An is the Founder and CEO of Eliter Education Consultant (EEC), an education consultancy in Cambodia that helps Khmer students pursue international study opportunities. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Architectural Engineering in South Korea on a full scholarship, worked in Korea’s engineering sector, and later completed a Master’s in Civil Engineering at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa through a U.S. State Department fellowship. His research focused on 3D-printed housing in Hawaii. Inspired by his global academic journey, he is passionate about expanding access to affordable, quality education for Cambodian students.
University of Hawaii at Manoa
Email: nmenghong2@gmail.com
Member
Chansereyroth Bun
My name is Chansereyroth Bun, and I am a third-year student pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering at the University of California, Berkeley. I completed my high school education and passed the BACII Examination in Cambodia before moving to the USA to continue my higher education. I studied at Pasadena City College before transferring to UC Berkeley. I have internship experience in drafting and site coordination with a construction company in Cambodia, and I was actively involved in engineering organizations and robotics competitions. I would love to join the Khmer community to build meaningful relationships and grow both personally and professionally!
UC Berkeley
Email: sereyroth@berkeley.edu
Member
Borum Long
Borum Long is a first-generation professional born in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. With a background in Mechanical Engineering and Computer Science from UC Davis, Borum gained two years of experience as a Control and Process Engineer at Gallo Winery. Currently, Borum is pursuing a Master’s degree at USC, specializing in Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering with a focus on AI and Machine Learning. The primary goal for joining the network is to connect with and strengthen the Khmer STEAM community through collaboration and shared professional growth.
University of Southern California (USC)
Email: borumlon@usc.edu
Member
Pichvirakyuth (James) Nhek
James, an international student who arrived in the U.S. in 2016, holds a B.S. in Mathematics from the University of Houston and is pursuing an M.S. in Data Science & AI at the University of San Francisco. He currently works as an AI Engineer at Asurion, specializing in enhancing chatbot accuracy. Based on his academic and professional journey, he believes he can offer valuable guidance to future students, particularly on entering the AI field and managing graduate school applications in the U.S., and express a willingness to share these insights with others.
University of San Francisco
Email: pnhek@dons.usfca.edu
Member
Sophea Rom (Phearom) Phy
Phearom, a native of Phnom Penh, is a PhD candidate in Civil Engineering (Water Resources) at the University of South Florida. His research centers on watershed hydrology and river flow forecasting in Southeast Asia, combining physics-based models with machine learning. He holds an engineer’s degree from the Institute of Technology of Cambodia and a master’s from Kyoto University in Japan, both in Water Resources Engineering. Dedicated to improving water management in the region, especially Cambodia, Phearom aims to advance comprehensive water-resources assessments and develop accessible, reliable hydrological forecasting tools to support sustainable development.
University of South Florida
Email: sophearumphy@gmail.com
Member
Kim Hong Huon
Kim Hong Huon, 28, originally from Pursat, Cambodia, now lives in Boston, Massachusetts. He earned both his Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Mathematics from the University of Massachusetts Lowell in 2023. Professionally, he has taught AP mathematics at Pioneer Charter School of Science and currently teaches and advises at Middlesex Community College, while also teaching at Benjamin Franklin Cummings Institute of Technology. Passionate about mathematics and science, Kim is deeply interested in higher education and STEM development.
University of Massachussetts, Lowell
Email: huonlimp@gmail.com
Member
Thydaleaph (June) Koeut
Thydaleaph (June) Koeut is a civil engineer based in Jacksonville, Florida. She earned her B.S. in Civil Engineering from the University of North Florida in 2024 and currently works at Four Waters Engineering, a firm specializing in water infrastructure. She values community-building among Cambodian professionals and looks forward to contributing to and learning from a supportive, inspiring network.
University of North Florida
Email: koeutthydaleap@gmail.com
Member
Hangkun Ung
Hangkun Ung is a senior software engineer based in Seattle, working at the startup PreVeil. He earned a B.S. in Computer Science and Applied Math from Brown University in 2018 and is currently pursuing a part-time master’s degree in Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of Washington.
Brown University
Email: hangkun.ung@gmail.com
Member
Pagnarath Hak
Pagnarath is a Cambodian international student in their sophomore year at Kent State University, pursuing a B.S. in Aerospace Engineering. Passionate about rocketry and hypersonic technology, he aspires to work at NASA or a like-minded private company contributing to space exploration and advanced aerospace innovation.
Kent State University
Email: pagnarath.hak@gmail.com
Member
Sambath (Sam) Vichea
Sambath Vichea is a Psychology major pursuing a B.A. at California State University, Fullerton. Based in Los Angeles, he is passionate about understanding human behavior, cognition, and the psychological forces shaping individual and social experiences. His academic focus includes critical thinking, research, and applying psychological theory to real-world contexts, with aspirations for future professional and graduate opportunities.
California State University
Email: vichea160@gmail.com
Member
Sobutra Ngov
Sobutra Ngov is a business and analytics professional pursuing a dual STEM MBA and MS in Business Analytics at Suffolk University. With a background in Supply Chain and Logistics, he focuses on business intelligence, data analytics, and tech-driven decision-making. He has led consulting and entrepreneurial projects in tourism, e-commerce, and international trade, applying data-driven strategies to real-world challenges, including in family-run Southeast Asian businesses.
Suffolk University
Email: vngovsobutra@gmail.com
Member
Darayuth Hang
Darayuth is a Khmer software engineer and tech entrepreneur based in Lowell, Massachusetts, with a background in web and mobile app development for data and healthcare at BlueFin Technology Partners and TechForGood. A graduate of UMass Lowell in Information Technology, you are now focused on building and growing your own technology products.
UMass Lowell
Email: darayuthhang12@gmail.com
Member
Channita Oum
Channita Garcia (also known as Channita Oum) graduated from Toul Tom Pong High School in 1999 and moved to the U.S. in 2000. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering from West Virginia University in 2006 under the name Channita Chau. Currently, she works in sales order management at Ebara Technologies, a global Japanese-based company. Although she hasn’t worked in her field yet, she hopes to pursue a career in chemical engineering in the future.
West Virginia University
Email: channitarachal@gmail.com
Member
Lewis Vibul Hun
Lewis Vibul Hun, born in Phnom Penh and educated in Sihanoukville, is an Environmental Scientist and Program Manager at the Santa Clara County Vector Control District in San Jose, California. He holds a Ph.D. in Entomology and Insect Science with a minor in Biochemistry from the University of Arizona. Lewis leads vector control efforts, applying entomological science to protect public health and ensure regulatory compliance with CEQA and NEPA.
University of Arizona
Email: llhun.ucr@gmail.com
Member
Romanea Kimhor
Romanea Kimhor is a freshman at Mount Holyoke College, majoring in Biochemistry and International Relations. Passionate about the intersection of science and diplomacy, she aims to pursue genetic research and contribute to international policy, especially at the UN. A 2025 graduate of East-West International School, she previously led environmental initiatives and engaged with UNOPS. Beyond academics, she enjoys writing, art, and music. Having completed her first semester, she’s eager to connect, particularly to learn more about molecular biology research and academic experiences in the field.
Mount Holyoke College
Email: romanea.kimhor22@gmail.com
Member
Pengcheng Hean
Pengcheang Hean is an MBA graduate with a focus in Data Analytics, currently working at APHCV in Los Angeles as a medical interpreter and administrative support professional. With over three years of experience as a Research and Teaching Assistant, he has contributed to healthcare and AI workforce studies. His background blends STEM, data analytics, and community healthcare, and he is passionate about empowering Cambodian communities through education, technology, mentorship, and collaboration via the Khmer STEM Global Network.
University of the West
Email: pengcheanghean1005@gmail.com
Member
Kimeng Chhay
Kimeng is an undergraduate student at Minerva University, majoring in Computer Science. She was a former FIRST Global Challenge robotics participant, mentor and volunteer. Later, she co-founded Makerspace 105, youth-led organization focusing on improving access to STEM education and opportunities to underprivileged students in Cambodia. Over the next four years, she will study in four different cities such as San Francisco, Tokyo, Buenos Aires and Berlin.
Minerva University
Email: kimeng.chhay@uni.minerva.edu