Jessica Zhang
  • June 1, 2026

  • Honor highlights the UCI political science undergrad’s work on climate change, Indigenous sovereignty, and geopolitics in the Arctic

    • -----

Jessica J Zhang ’26 political science is the undergrad recipient of the 2026 Justice and Equity Research Paper Award. The honor – which includes a $1000 prize – recognizes top graduate and undergraduate research papers addressing race, justice and related topics. Below, the soon-to-be grad from Vancouver, BC, Canada shares her award-winning work – “Arctic Food Insecurity: Inuit Health Justice and Digital Sovereignty” – and future plans.

Q: How did you decide on political science for your major? What interests you most about your work?

A: In high school, I was heavily involved in chemistry and biology and originally thought I would pursue a STEM-related path. However, I was also drawn to global politics and public policy, which ultimately led me to study political science at UCI. Over time, my academic interests became more personal after watching my grandmother experience Alzheimer’s disease. That experience made me realize I wanted to combine health and policy, especially in areas involving healthcare accessibility, aging, public health, and emerging health technologies. What interests me most about my work is connecting larger structural issues to real human experiences and exploring how policy shapes people’s quality of life.

Q: With commencement on the horizon, what’s next for you?

A: After graduation, I plan to work at the intersection of health and policy. Long term, I hope to attend graduate or law school and continue pursuing work related to health equity and patient advocacy.

Q: What would you consider your biggest accomplishment at UCI?

A: One of my biggest accomplishments at UCI was designing and teaching my own undergraduate seminar on climate change, Indigenous health justice and sovereignty, and Arctic geopolitics. Teaching an interdisciplinary course challenged me to grow not only as a student, but also as a leader and educator. I was also honored to receive recognitions including the Chancellor’s Award of Distinction, Departmental Honors, and induction into Phi Beta Kappa.

Q: In addition to classes, what else has fueled your UCI experience?

A: Beyond the classroom, I have been involved in Alzheimer’s research and outreach, where I helped conduct bilingual interviews with older adults and caregivers related to dementia and aging. I also taught high school students about the First Amendment and constitutional law. Outside of campus, I worked on medical device recall projects related to public health and patient safety and supported pharmaceutical fraud and financial crime investigations. These experiences deepened my interest in healthcare systems and patient advocacy.

Q: Who has played an important mentorship role in your life thus far and why? Specifically at UCI?

A: Professor Robert Uriu has been one of the most influential mentors in my academic journey. He reignited my passion for debate, argumentation, and international relations and encouraged me to pursue ambitious projects with confidence. Dr. Josh Grill and Dr. Megan Witbracht gave me the opportunity to explore research connected to Alzheimer’s disease and health equity, areas I care deeply about. Professor Daphne Inbar broadened my academic interests through her courses on security studies and the Middle East, while Professor Theodore Martin helped guide me in becoming a more thoughtful educator. Chika Kono consistently supported and encouraged me throughout my journey at UCI.

Q: Are there any unique circumstances that have played a major role in where and who you are today?

A: As a first-generation college student and international student, I often had to navigate unfamiliar systems without much guidance. However, UCI’s supportive professors, friends, and staff helped me grow both personally and academically and encouraged me to pursue interdisciplinary work across research, healthcare, and policy.

Q: Where can you most often be found on campus?

A: Biological Sciences III.

Q: What’s your best memory thus far from your undergraduate experience at UCI?

A: One of my favorite memories was the final debate in Professor Uriu’s POL SCI 141C class, where I not only pushed myself academically, but also met some of my closest friends. Another favorite memory was going to Summerlands 2024 with friends and simply enjoying the music and atmosphere together. I also cherish waking up at 6 a.m. on Saturdays to work alongside some of my favorite people. These moments reminded me how meaningful the friendships and community I found at UCI have been.

Q: Any other interesting tidbits or parting advice for future Anteaters that you would like to share?

A: One piece of advice I would share is to push yourself outside of your comfort zone and be the first to introduce yourself to people. I’ve met many of my closest friends through classes and shared experiences at UCI, and those friendships became some of the most meaningful parts of my college experience. Also, take advantage of the free hour gaming at the esports center — it’s one of those small but memorable parts of campus life that makes UCI special.

 

Related News Items

Archive

Connect with us: