In a remarkable display of academic excellence, the University of Iowa recently celebrated 11 outstanding researchers, ranging from undergraduate to postdoctoral levels, at the Old Capitol Museum. These individuals are contributing groundbreaking work in areas crucial to societal advancement, such as cancer treatment innovations, dementia care advancements, and the impact of civil wars on children.
David Schwebel, vice president for research, praised their efforts, saying, “Our student and postdoctoral researchers show levels of intellect, creativity, and academic rigor that are truly inspiring.” Each year, nominations for these awards are solicited from the campus community.
Postdoctoral Research Excellence Award
Farnoosh Shemirani, PhD, Postdoctoral Research Fellow
Dr. Shemirani’s work focuses on nutrition’s role in managing neurological and metabolic disorders, notably multiple sclerosis (MS). Her research includes secondary analyses of dietary trials and a systematic review on diet’s impact on MS. Shemirani has authored 17 peer-reviewed papers and received multiple research grants, including the Iowa Initiative for Artificial Intelligence Pilot AI Research Grant. Linda Snetselaar lauds her as one of the best trainees she has evaluated.
Graduate Research Excellence Awards
Jodie McLennan, Physics and Astronomy PhD Student
McLennan is advancing the study of pulsating aurora and its effects on Earth’s magnetosphere. She achieved the first in-situ validation of a ground-based methodology for measuring aurora energy changes and received the Future Investigators in NASA Earth and Space Science and Technology award. Allison Jaynes commended her as a stellar example of scholarly excellence.
Harindu Rajapaksha, Chemistry PhD Student
Focusing on neptunium chemistry, Rajapaksha has contributed significantly to the study of radioactive materials. His achievements include co-authoring 16 publications and receiving the Seaborg Institute Summer Research Fellowship. Tori Forbes described him as a rising star in radiochemistry and computational chemistry.
Ellen Voigt, Cancer Biology MD/PhD Student
Voigt’s research on Malignant Peripheral Nerve Sheath Tumors (MPNSTs) has led to promising therapeutic approaches. Her methods include studies in cultured cells, mouse models, and patient tumors. Dawn Quelle praised her as a creative and careful experimentalist.
Gawain Williams, Health Services and Policy PhD Student
Williams examines cancer outcome disparities, particularly in prostate cancer among Black populations in rural areas. His work integrates qualitative and quantitative approaches to address health inequities. Kayla Faust recognized his work as a meaningful contribution to health services research.
Innovation in Safety Award (Student)
Emma Markun, Chemistry PhD Student
Markun developed protocols for safely transporting cryogens in elevators, addressing significant safety concerns. Her efforts involve adapting practices from peer institutions and creating educational materials. Edward Gillan highlighted this as a major safety innovation.
Excellence in Undergraduate Research Awards
Lindsey Henkenius, Nursing Major
Henkenius’ Alzheimer’s Association-funded project investigates dementia patients’ rejection of care. Clarissa Shaw commended her as the best undergraduate research assistant she has worked with.
Nina Osborne, Geographical and Sustainability Science Major
Osborne’s research focuses on Midwestern forests’ response to climate change. Susan Meerdink praised her as the best undergraduate researcher she has employed.
Jackie Ott, Human Physiology Major
Ott explores TGF-β’s role in cancer-related muscle wasting, using various laboratory techniques. Erin Talbert noted her bravery as a scientist willing to try new things.
Brooke Paasch, Political Science and International Relations Major
Paasch examines gender’s psychological impact on child soldiers and immigration policy factors. Brian Lai described her as a leader in his research team.
Sean Strand, Biology Major
Strand’s research investigates cancer cell migration mechanisms, focusing on the “bundling” protein fascin. Tina Tootle acknowledged his comprehensive understanding of his research projects.
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