SIB undergraduate awards

Robert H. Davis Memorial Award

Sue and Kent Davis established this prize to honor and remember their son Robert. Rob had a wide variety of interests and a desire to help others. This prize is intended to recognize “a student who exhibits significant academic curiosity, is hardworking and motivated... (With) interests outside of academia, such as the arts, sports, politics, or literature and who is generally inquisitive about life. The prize allows a student a summer semester in a research lab related to fields of study in the School of Integrative Biology or organismal biology.

Awardee: Elijah Becker

I am studying Integrative Biology to enter the field of Conservation and Ecology. Specifically, I hope to work with cetaceans like dolphins or whales. This award helps relieve my family of financial burdens, allowing me to take on internships at the Shedd and participate in an animal behavior lab during the next school year to continue building experience and skills.

Robert H. Davis Excellence Award

Sue and Kent Davis established this award to honor and remember their son Robert. This award supports a student excellence scholarship. The recipient is selected based on academic or research excellence.

Awardee: Ben Brosnan

a photo of Ben Brosnan standing in the woods

I am currently an undergraduate at UIUC studying for my bachelor's degree in Integrative Biology and a minor in Ecology and Conservation. I am involved in conservation genetics research, specifically helping with research studying the endangered Louisiana Pine Snake. This award along with its generous donation will aid me on my path to continue my academic career using research platforms focused on understanding endangered species and helping in their conservation.

Camp Family Research Award

This award, for graduates of Illinois high schools, was made possible by Bob and Tammy Camp. They met at UIUC as first-generation college students. Bob earned a BS and an MS in Computer Science and Tammy earned a BS in General Biology. Tammy received an MS in Biochemistry at Northwestern University. They recognize that research experience and strong lab skills are important for a successful career in biology. This award helps to provide this opportunity to SIB students.

Awardees: Angel Perez and Morgan Wood

A photo of Angel Perez in a hoodie holding a fishing pole

Angel Perez: I am an undergraduate student majoring in Integrative Biology Honors with a minor in Chemistry. I love plants, especially in the context of ecology and their roles in helping maintain the structure of an ecosystem. I plan to attend graduate school to dive deeper into the ecological roles that plants have, especially when it comes to their relationship with microorganisms and their impacts on nutrient cycling. I am currently a part of Dr. Yang's lab, where I help PhD student Natalie Belloso with her work researching the impacts that long-term nitrogen fertilization has on ecosystem-level processes and how these influence plant-microbe interactions.

Morgan Wood: I am studying bluefin killifish and their coloring dependent on social factors. Since killifish are such a great model organism it’s always a good thing to continue learning about them. This scholarship will help me run multiple experiments to learn more about bluefin killifish, their color, and social behaviors.

Spyros Kavouras Summer Research Award

Dr. Jerry Kavouras established this award in memory of his father. Dr. Kavouras received his BS in Biology at UIUC in 1995 and his PhD in 2002 from Marquette University. He is currently Professor and Chair of the Biology Department at Lewis University. The award helps support a full-time summer research experience in the lab of an SIB faculty member.

Awardees: Jenaya Wilder

a photo of jenaya wilder standing out in a field with a bug catching net

I am a junior, soon to be senior, in the Integrative Biology major. This summer I will be conducting my own independent research project on how heatwaves affect Black Swallowtail butterfly physiology in Alex Harmon-Threatt’s pollinator entomology lab. Through this, I hope to be able to better predict how climate change will affect these butterfly populations, and in turn help us improve conservation efforts and advocate for an end to specific causes of global warming. This award is such an honor, and I’m very grateful to have received it!

Robert J. Graesser Summer Internship

Made possible due to the generous donation by Mr. Graesser, a 1973 graduate of Botany. He established this fund for the benefit of future generations of botanists.

Awardees: Fisher Houston & Drew Kim

A photo of Fisher with the former chancellor

Fisher Houston: I'm a sophomore in the Integrative Biology Honors Program currently studying resurrection plants: desiccation tolerant species that can hunker down in drought conditions, sprouting to life once favorable conditions return. I hope to uncover the mechanisms that confer this unique ability, and work towards applying discoveries to inspiring drought-resistant crops or utilizing key molecules to influence human health outcomes. My other research interests include genetics-based investigations into nutrition using the model organism C. elegans and using bioanthropology perspectives to contextualize colonial reports of ancient Inca civilization. I hope to use the opportunities afforded by the Graesser Award to gain invaluable experience through involved research and prepare myself for a future of change-making.

A photo of Drew Kim in front of a building

Drew Kim: I'm a junior in the school of integrative biology working in Dr. Brooks lab. I'm currently aiding research in understanding how Arabidopsis Thaliana integrates both Nitrogen and CO2. Additionally, I am personally researching how cis-regulatory elements effect gene expression.

Mulroy Summer Internship

Made possible by a generous donation from Ms. Maureen Mulroy for undergraduate research.

Awardees: Dishan Gunya, Ren Horn, and Valeria Ocampo

Dishan Gunya: I am a premedical student majoring in Integrative Biology, with interests in ecology and environmental science. I hope to attend medical school in the future. I currently work as an undergraduate student with Fahren Zackery and conduct a systematic review of human microbial diversity and disease outcomes. I plan on working with Dr. Wendy Yang over the summer. This award will provide the financial support needed to continue my research in my field.

Ren Horn: I am currently a junior majoring in integrative biology and minoring in NRES: Wildlife and Fisheries Conservation. This summer, I will be working in Dr. Milton Tan's lab researching how body shape of minnows is correlated to their ecology. With this time in the lab, I hope to be able to present my work and graduate with distinction. Using these funds, I can continue focusing on research and determine if academia is the future career path for me!

Valeria Ocampo sitting under a gazebo near a pond

Valeria Ocampo: I am a sophomore from Glendale Heights, IL, majoring in Integrative Biology and pursuing an Anthropology minor. I am working towards becoming a biologist to understand the variety of life systems to protect and preserve our environment. This scholarship will graciously support my academic journey, helping to hone my skills in many areas of biology.

iBio Summer Internship

This award will support a full-time (40 hours / week for 10 weeks) summer research experience in the lab of a School of Integrative Biology Faculty member.

Awardees: Kathleen Apaez, Ryan Orozco, & Angelina Roamn-Alcocer

Kathleen Apaez: I am currently a sophomore at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign majoring in Integrative Biology with a minor in Chemistry.

A photo of Ryan Orozco standing next to a tree wrapped in christmas lights

Ryan Orozco: I am currently an undergraduate at UIUC studying for my bachelor's degree in Integrative Biology and a minor in Ecology and Conservation. I am involved in conservation genetics research, specifically helping with research studying the endangered Louisiana Pine Snake. This award along with its generous donation will aid me on my path to continue my academic career using research platforms focused on understanding endangered species and helping in their conservation.

A professional photo of Angelina Roman-Alcocer

Angelina Roman-Alcocer: I am a senior majoring in Integrative Biology from Lindenhurst, IL. This summer I will be conducting my own independent research on how anthropogenic noise affects male parental care in Red-winged Blackbirds under the guidance of Facundo Fernandez-Duque in the Bell Lab. I hope the findings will contribute valuable information to conservation strategies for birds breeding in noise-impacted habitats. I believe gaining deeper insights into these impacts are essential, as it helps us become more aware of our effects on the environment. Being awarded this internship is such an honor and I can’t wait for the summer to begin!

AAP Award

LAS, in partnership with SIB, provides summer research experience to undergraduate students.

Awardees: Juliana Alvarez, Jazmin Fuentes, & Erin Miller

Juliana Alvarez: I am a freshman that is undeclared in the College of LAS, hoping to declare a major in Integrative Biology with a minor in Child Health and Well Being. I was recently accepted into the Access and Achievement Program Summer Research Fellowship where I will spend 10 weeks researching and working in the Phil Anderson lab.

Jazmin Fuentes: I am a first-generation freshman at UIUC. My hometown is biology and my major is Integrative Biology.

Erin Miller: I am a junior majoring in Integrative Biology at UIUC. This summer, I will be working full-time on research in Dr. Matt Doremus’s lab, studying symbiotic relationships between arthropods and bacteria. I'm excited to learn more about these host-microbe interactions and contribute to research exploring how symbionts shape arthropod biology and reproduction.

Jesus Montes: I'm a freshman majoring in Integrative Biology. My main interests are the physiology and anatomy of living organisms, especially humans! Learning how the mechanisms of our and other organisms' bodies work gets me ecstatic, and I wish to contribute to the ever-evolving understanding of mind-body connection. In my free time, I love playing electric guitar and honing my skills. I look forward to my current research opportunity and any future opportunities to come!

Alin Ortiz-Hernandez: I am currently a sophomore majoring in molecular and cellular biology on a pre med track. From Woodstock, IL.

A photo of Karol Penuelas standing cross-armed in the woods

Karol Penuelas: I am a freshman in the college of LAS. I have an interest in Earth sciences and chemistry, specifically in climate change. I hope that by working in the Yang Lab I will learn what it means to be a researcher. In my spare time, I love to watch movies and review them.

Yvette Reyes Caracheo: I am from Chicago, Illinois. I am a current undergraduate freshman here at UIUC with majors in Integrative Biology and Spanish and I will be working alongside Dr. Dolezal this summer on his studies with bees!

Nicole Sanchez: I'm a sophomore from Joliet, Illinois, currently studying Biology. I got accepted to work in the Burgess Lab this summer!

Samantha Sanford: I am a sophomore majoring in Integrative Biology. This summer, I will be working in the Allan Lab under Maria Munoz, studying how factors such as climate change and invasive species affect the prevalence of vector-borne diseases. I am incredibly grateful for this opportunity to gain valuable research experience and learn more about disease transmission.

Belicia Tuffour: I am a sophomore majoring in chemistry. I enjoy drawing and painting outside of my academics.

Yongyan Zhou: I’m a sophomore from Chicago majoring in Integrative Biology with a minor in Chemistry. I’m passionate about medicine and currently exploring a path toward becoming a doctor—possibly in anesthesiology or pathology. I’m excited to continue learning, growing, and making a meaningful impact in healthcare. Outside of academics I really like reading fantasy books that allow me to get immersed in a fictional world.

Oliver J. Bell Merit Scholarship in Integrative Biology

Oliver J. Bell graduated summa cum laude and with distinction from the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences in 1989 with concentrations in Biology Honors and chemistry. This award supports academic excellence and intellectual achievement in all its forms. The recipient is chosen on merit and must be an incoming junior in the Honors Biology Program in the fall.

Awardee: Amartya Nalluri

A photo of Amartya Nalluri standing on a bridge with trees behind him

I am a sophomore majoring in integrative biology honors and minoring in statistics. As a part of the Heath Lab, I am always learning more about the relationship between different legume plants and rhizobacteria in the soil. I am so grateful for this scholarship, which will allow me to dedicate more time to my research lab and begin working on my own plants in the greenhouse. I also hope to take more time to learn more about science communication and outreach, which I know are vital for continuing productive research.

Judy Willis Scholarship

This award is made possible by a generous donation by faculty in recognition of Dr. Judy Willis (currently a professor emeritus at the University of Georgia). Prior to teaching at UGA, she was a UIUC professor in the Biology Honors program for many years. This award recognizes an outstanding junior in the IB Honors program.

Awardee: Arted Gjata

My name is Arted Gjata and I am a junior double majoring in Integrative Biology Honors and Chemistry. I plan on attending medical school after I earn my undergraduate degree with the hopes of becoming a physician within the field of internal medicine. I do research on the genetic modification of sorghum plants to create novel phenotypes. The goal of the research is to create strains which have increased crop yield/biomass in an effort to combat the energy crisis which our society faces. This scholarship will go towards supporting me as I pursue these academic endeavors and continue my research.

IB Honors (IBH) Sophomore & Junior Achievement Scholarships

Recognizes outstanding achievement for a sophomore and junior currently enrolled in the IB Honors Program. Applications are judged on evidence of outstanding achievements in academics and leadership activities.

Awardees: Alaina Langston & Ella Narag

Alaina Langston/IBH Sophomore: I am a sophomore in IB Honors with interests in pursuing a graduate degree that lies within the realm of genomics. Next fall semester, along with my studies, I will begin working in the Spinella Lab which focuses on the molecular mechanisms of cancer therapeutics and mechanisms of chemoresistance in certain types of cancer. I am deeply grateful for this scholarship, as it allows me to focus on my passion for the biological sciences and as a measure of my dedication to my studies.

A photo of Ella Narag sitting out by some bushes and trees

Ella Narag/IBH Junior: I am studying IB Honors and Global Studies with a strong focus in Public Health and Health Policy! I am currently studying for the LSAT, as I hope to pursue a MPH/JD dual degree after graduation. This scholarship will help me in reaching my goals of applying to graduate schools to further my interest in identifying and improving healthcare disparities in the United States.

Dr. Stewart D. Fordham Award

The award, made possible by a generous donation by Dr. Fordham, supports an undergraduate scholarship for students who are completing their undergraduate degree program and are planning on attending medical school immediately after graduation.

Awardee: Jesus Cardenas

Jesus is pre-medical student who majored in Integrative Biology. This fall, he will begin medical school at Rosalind Franklin University. Jesus aspires to pursue a career in orthopedic surgery. Jesus is passionate about helping marginalized communities and provide compassionate care.

Delcomyn International Study in Biology Award

In 2008, Dr. Fred Delcomyn and Nancy A. Delcomyn established the “Delcomyn International Study in Biology Award” to benefit undergraduate students majoring in Integrative Biology who wish to take advantage of educational opportunities in biology outside the United States and Canada. Such activities may include but are not limited to research projects, intersession courses, or courses offered by the Organization of Tropical Studies, that are held outside of the United States of America.

Awardees: Emerson Echols & Jenaya Wilder

SIB Endowed Enhancement Scholarship

Made possible by funds given by an anonymous donor.

Fred and Nancy Delcomyn and the donors of the Endowed and SIB Enhancement funds supported:

Delcomyn Award
Emerson Echols
Jenaya Wilder

Endowed Enhancement fund
Benjamin Navar Arango
Julia Bondi
Veda Murphy
Katia Touchette

SIB Enhancement fund
Francisco Cornejo
Stefanie De La Cruz Aldana
Eliana Eng
Lily Porter

Joann Kavouras Memorial Scholarship

Dr. Jerry Kavouras established this award in memory of his mother. Dr. Kavouras received his BS in Biology at UIUC in 1995 and his PhD in 2002 from Marquette University. He is currently Professor and Chair of the Biology Department at Lewis University. The award provides a scholarship to a current IB sophomore or junior.

Awardee: Isabelle Saucedo

A photo of Isabelle Saucedo standing in front of a model of Earth

Isabelle Saucedo is a student here at UIUC majoring in Integrative Biology with a minor in Chemistry. She was recently accepted into the Integrative Biology Honors Program and is excited to start her journey in the fall. Isabelle’s current career goal is working towards studying animal behavior and research, and she wishes to join a lab this upcoming semester. Being a first generation Mexican-American student, this scholarship will allow her to spend more time in the lab as well as time to focus on her studies without worry of financial burdens. Isabelle is excited to see where her journey here at UIUC takes her and is grateful to the donors and the Integrative Biology department for their continued support for students like herself!

Richard Ware Endowed Scholarship Fund

Established by Vickie S. Brooks, James R. Ware and John R. Ware, in honor of Richard Ware.

Awardees: Natalie Budzyna, Natalie Flemenbaum, & Matthew Henry

Natalie Budzyna: I am a freshman studying Integrative Biology on the pre-physician assistant track! I am involved in a few RSOs on campus thus far, such as the pre-physician assistant club and the Letters of Love organization. Recently certified as a nursing assistant, I am eager to use this opportunity as a stepping stone to gain valuable experience within the medical field. This scholarship will allow me to continue to pursue different opportunities and focus on my studies with lessened financial burden.

Natalie Flemenbaum: I am an ambitious undergraduate student pursuing an Integrative Biology Honors degree with a minor in Chemistry. With a deep passion for medicine, I am driven by my aspiration to become a pediatrician, aiming to provide compassionate and accessible healthcare to marginalized communities. My academic journey reflects my dedication to both scientific research and community engagement. Currently, I am involved in a research lab investigating the impact of microplastics on the survival and longevity of Daphnia, a critical study in the realm of environmental and biological sciences.

Matthew Henry: I expect to graduate in December 2026 with a B.S. in Integrative Biology. The award/scholarship will help fund my college education because after graduation, I plan on going to medical school and need a way to pay off my debt before any further schooling. The internship will be used to support my research. My research will be focused on "Identifying the Presence and Concentrations of Heavy Metals in Urban Soils and its Impact on Plant and Public Health.”

Dr. Kirk and Mrs. Shannon Moberg Scholarship in Integrative Biology

Provides a scholarship to a student in IB who graduated from an Illinois High School.

Awardees: Sonya Luebbers, Rachel Miller, and Mia Possin

Sonya Luebbers: After taking IB150: Organismal and Evolutionary Biology during Fall 2024 and declaring as an Integrative Biology major, I became interested in gaining meaningful research experiences during my time at Illinois. After contacting Dr. Marianne Alleyne, I was encouraged to participate in undergraduate research on bio-inspired design under the guidance of entomology graduate student Siti Fauziyah. I would like to be able to develop and execute a research project in the Alleyne Bioinspiration Co-lab-orative during the summer of 2025 with the support of SIB.

Rachel Miller: I am studying Integrative Biology Honors with minors in Chemistry and Anthropology to understand evolution on both organismal and molecular levels. After graduation, I plan to study evolution and disease ecology in graduate school to go on to develop molecular-level disease treatments and vaccines. This scholarship helps lessen the financial burden of pursuing multiple higher education degrees, making it easier for me to pursue this future in increasing global health knowledge.

A photo of Mia Possin with a back drop of a lake behind her

Mia Possin: I am currently a junior studying Integrative Biology with the goal of becoming a genetic counselor. I’m especially interested in how genetic information can guide individuals and families through important health decisions. I’m part of a research lab where I focus on genome annotation and data analysis in fish species, which has helped me build a strong foundation in genetics and research methods. This scholarship will support my academic journey and help me gain more experience in the field.

Chester W. & Nadine C. Houston Scholarship

Dr. Chet and Mrs. Nadine Houston provided the funds for this scholarship to recognize outstanding achievement in academics. Dr. Chet was a Professor at the University of Rhode Island and Nadine had a long career as a librarian. Their generous gift provides financial support to deserving SIB students.

Awardees: Salman Rizvi, Sarah Rodriguez, Mariam Vaid, Mahil Venkatesh, & Sophia Vodnik

Salman Rizvi: For my BS in Integrative Biology, I am helping with research on sustainable agricultural practices. Our group in Wendy Yang’s lab is specifically investigating the benefits of growing crops alongside trees in diverse polycultures. We hope to find how this system can improve the yield of the crops, the quality of the soil, and the reduction of carbon emissions. I am grateful for this scholarship as it helps me continue to contribute to this cause which will certainly grow increasingly important as time goes on.

A photo of Sarah Rodriguez holding an animal

Sarah Rodriguez: I have been working for the Harmon-Threatt lab and would benefit greatly from the opportunity to work full time as an intern in that lab or a similar lab to go more in depth with the research process. I am interested in conservation, restoration, ecology, and physiology.

A photo of Mariam Vaid sitting under a gazebo

Mariam Vaid: I am currently a Sophomore at UIUC in the Integrative Biology Honors Program, on the pre-med track. I am an undergraduate research at the Musculoskeletal Morphology and Biomechanics Laboratory within the College of Applied Health Sciences. I am currently researching the correlation between tissue degeneration (specifically in the glenoid labrum and joint capsule) and self-reported shoulder pain in pre and post menopausal individuals. I intend to utilize the funds from this scholarship to attend research conferences to not only present my own research but learn from others’ research as well. I also hope to supplement my pre-medical journey using this funding, to assist in application fees and MCAT study materials. This scholarship will help me to gain new experiences in the research sphere and allow me to pursue my passion in healthcare.

A photo of Mahil Venkatesh out in a street

Mahil Venkatesh: I am a sophomore in IBH with minors in Chemistry and Spanish. Outside of academics, I love watching Tamil movies, playing the guitar, and playing basketball. With this award, I am motivated to pursue further research opportunities and gain invaluable skills on my journey as a pre-medical student.

Sophia Vodnik: I am a second-year Integrative Biology Honors student with a minor in Chemistry, following the pre-veterinary track. I have started my research in the Wildlife Epidemiology Lab under Dr. Matthew Allender, focusing on understanding disease transmission between wild and domestic species. Through independent research, I plan to further investigate these dynamics and how they can inform veterinary practices and improve animal health. This scholarship will provide financial support for my research over the summer semester and assist in covering veterinary school application expenses.

School of Integrative Biology Endowed Scholarship

Is made possible thanks to a generous anonymous donation.

Awardees: Megan O'Sullivan & Jenna Rosas

A photo of Megan O'Sullivan out on a trail in the woods

Megan O'Sullivan: I am a sophomore in IB Honors and minoring in Chemistry and Statistics. Next semester, I will be starting in Dr. Gaulke's lab to study the impact of microbiome-host interactions on organismal health. I am grateful for this scholarship, which will help me to one day pursue graduate school and will allow me to spend more time pursuing research.

Jenna Rosas: I’m a junior majoring in Integrative Biology with a minor in Ecology and Conservation Biology. I’m currently doing research in the Bell Lab, where I study the behavioral ecology of the three-spined stickleback. I’m especially interested in parental care, specifically how this species invests in and interacts with its offspring, and what that can tell us about the evolution of social behavior. This endowed scholarship is helping me continue hands-on research and build a strong foundation as I prepare for a future in biological research.

SIB Alumni and Friends Awards

These awards have been made possible thanks to several donations from our alumni and friends. Their support has allowed SIB to offer unparalleled educational and research opportunities for our students. These scholarships have given our students access to additional resources, trainings, meetings, and more as they build their research skills and grow their careers.

Anderson-Robertson SIB Alumni & Friends Scholarship

Awardees: Julia Aniecko & Samantha Sanford

Julia Aniecko: I am pursuing a B.S. in Integrative Biology and am set to graduate in May 2027. Currently, I am an Undergraduate Research Assistant in Dr. Wendy Yang’s lab. This award will support my continued academic development and allow me to explore the intersection between Integrative Biology and medicine, my planned career path. My research experience so far has included studying electrophysiological responses in cockroaches and the effects of fertilization on experimental soil plots.

Samantha Sanford: I am a sophomore majoring in Integrative Biology. This summer, I will be working in the Allan Lab, studying how certain factors affect the prevalence of vector-borne diseases. I am incredibly grateful for this scholarship because it will support my academic and professional journey and allow me to dedicate my focus to my education.

David SIB Alumni & Friends Scholarship

Awardee: Valeria Ocampo

I am a sophomore from Glendale Heights, IL, majoring in Integrative Biology and pursuing an Anthropology minor. I am working towards becoming a biologist to understand the variety of life systems in order to protect and preserve our environment. This scholarship will graciously support my academic journey, helping to hone my skills in many areas of biology.

James & Susan Hatfield SIB Alumni & Friends Scholarship

Awardee: Samuel Cho

A photo of Samuel Cho standing in front of some plants

I am an undergraduate student in Integrative Biology. I hope to enter the field of wildlife biology and study animals in the future. This scholarship will help me achieve those goals by funding my bachelor's degree, so that I can learn and experience wildlife biology skills. I hope to use the knowledge I gain here to bring them with me when I enter the field of biological research!

Mendius SIB Alumni & Friends Scholarship

Awardees: Francisco Cornejo, Trinity Dockery, Abraham Morales, Milly Manno, & Katie McGovern

A photo of Francisco Cornejo standing in a rainforest

Francisco Cornejo: I am a senior in Integrative Biology and a proud Chicago native. I plan to return to Chicago to help build a culture that values nature, sees itself as part of a living system, and feels empowered to make choices that preserve and restore it. The award helped me to study abroad, something I never imagined possible, giving me direct experience of the beauty and fragility of life across the world. Though I do not yet know if I’ll pursue law, medicine, or research, I know that this award affirms my commitment to bringing people closer to the natural world.

Trinity Dockery: I am a dedicated college student pursuing a degree in Integrative Biology with the goal of becoming a secondary school teacher. I am passionate about both science and education aspire to inspire the next generation of students to develop a love for learning and a deeper understanding of the natural world.

A photo of Abraham Morales standing in front of a building with a painted wall

Abraham Morales: I’m a Junior majoring in Integrative Biology on the Pre-dental track. I’m passionate about both dentistry and research, currently working in two labs. In the Roach Brain Lab, I study the origins of biodiversity by researching cockroaches and other arthropods, focusing on evolutionary patterns and biological phenomena. In the Realizing Increased Photosynthetic Efficiency (RIPE) Lab, I help explore ways to improve photosynthetic efficiency in crops to address global food security. This scholarship will support my research and help me further develop my skills in both biological research and sustainable solutions.

Milly Manno: I am studying for my B.S. in Integrative Biology with a minor in Anthropology, and I am currently working as an undergraduate research assistant at the Dolezal Bee Lab! I plan to use the funding to further support my research project studying pathogen load and transmission in/between honeybees and native Illinois bees in the lab over the summer.

Katie McGovern: I am an Integrative Biology major on the pre-med track at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. I developed an interest in extracellular vesicles (EVs) during my research at the Wake Forest Institute of Regenerative Medicine, which led me to the Boppart Laboratory. My research goal is to determine if EVs from aged mice induce cellular aging and whether exercise can modify these vesicles to reduce aging effects. I have also gained clinical experience by shadowing trauma surgeons at UChicago and volunteering at Carle Hospital. This scholarship will motivate me even more to pursue my future career in medicine and support my continued exploration of biology as I work towards becoming a physician.

Rubinkowski SIB Alumni & Friends Scholarship

Awardee: Julia Ciura

I am a second-year student on the pre-Physician Assistant pathway studying Integrative Biology and obtaining certificates in Integrative Health and Health Technology. I am involved in several different activities across campus including a executive position in Her Campus at Illinois, intern for two different marketing/social media companies, volunteering and making philanthropic contributions through the prePA club, along with undergraduate research in Alison Bell’s lab, cultivating a brain atlas of the three-spined stickleback to further the research occurring in the lab. This funding will allow me to prioritize my studies, as I currently work as a patient care technician at a hospital and will allow me to continue to pursue different opportunities to nurture my knowledge.

Unverferth SIB Alumni & Friends Scholarship

Awardees: Julia Persak, Akilah Samad, Neha Siram, Junhe Zhang, & Claire Skowron

A photo of Julia Persak marching in the color guard.

Julia Persak: I am studying integrative biology with the goal of working in conservation education. As an undergraduate researcher in the wildlife epidemiology lab on campus, I am gaining hands-on experience with data analysis and general lab protocols. This scholarship will help alleviate my financial burden and allow me to continue focusing more on educational experiences and career development.

A photo of Akilah Samad standing by the krannert stairs

Akilah Samad: I am an undergraduate student majoring in Integrative Biology at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. I currently work in Dr. Justin Aronoff’s Binaural Hearing Lab, where we study auditory processing and neural integration, particularly in individuals with cochlear implants. My research focuses on how the brain interprets binaural cues, which is essential for understanding speech perception and sound localization. This work has strengthened my passion for neuroscience and inspired me to explore the intersection of sensory systems and patient health. I plan to pursue a career in medicine, with a focus on serving underserved communities through research, clinical care, and advocacy. This scholarship will help me continue building a strong foundation in science and giving back. It will also help support my journey towards becoming a physician who uplifts and empowers those in need.

Neha Siram: I am an Integrative Biology honors student researching the PF20243 protein family with Dr. Anastasia Manesis. Our work explores a highly conserved protein motif that undergoes critical post-translational modifications, focusing on the FcoP protein and its potential enzymatic transformations. We aim to uncover novel insights into protein modification mechanisms and metal binding site formation, with potential implications for biotechnology and medical research.

A photo of Junhe Zhang standing in front the Chicago River

Junhe Zhang: I am currently in my third year of the Integrative Biology BS+MS program, set to begin my Master’s studies this coming summer. I am actively involved in research projects examining the dilution effect on the human microbiome and top-down modulation in the auditory system. This scholarship is not only a meaningful recognition of my academic journey so far but also a source of encouragement as I work toward deeper engagement with these projects. I aspire to pursue independent research in the near future and contribute original insights to the scientific community.

Claire Skowron

SIB Undergraduate Awards