02/12/2026
So excited for these 3 speakers to take the stage at Nerd Nite Rochester, 2/26 from 6:30-9PM at Boulder Coffee.
RJ Millena is an entomologist specializing in the evolution, biology, and taxonomy of the twisted-wing parasites. Her doctoral studies at the American Museum of Natural History in NYC were focused on these delightfully bizarre insects, and she has traveled the world to find them both afield and in museum collections. Now at the University of Rochester as a postdoctoral fellow, RJ works closely with Natasha V***a in the Mora-Kepfer Uy Trop Bio Lab to examine how strepsipteran infection can alter its insect hosts. Outside of the lab, RJ spends time practicing invertebrate & reptile husbandry, improving her flying trapeze skills at ROC City Circus, and dancing ballet.
Natasha V***a obtained her Bachelors of Science in Neuroscience from the University of Rochester in 2025 and is now a Biology Ph.D. student in the U of R Biology department. She has spent the past three years in the Mora-Kepfer Uy lab conducting research on the mechanisms of manipulation in insect host-parasite systems, with special emphasis on neural pathways and wasp brain dissection. In her downtime, she loves to read horror novels, cuddle with her cat Oreo, and play video games with her fiancée.
Amanda Ashley is a Long Island–born singer-songwriter who began composing at fourteen and performing publicly by sixteen. After graduating from SUNY Fredonia, she became an active performer and event coordinator in Rochester, NY, where she helped cultivate community, education, and artistic opportunities for local musicians. Her music blends pop, soul, and R&B influences, supported by years of touring and multiple releases—including work with the Amanda Ashley Trio and, more recently, her original duo project SHADES. Beyond performing, Amanda has hosted the “Afternoon Cocktail Talk Show” podcast/videocast, contributed as a columnist for Rochester Woman Online, and currently serves as Program Director for Girls Rock Rochester, empowering youth through music education and creative expression.
