Nina Osborne experienced a moment of disbelief when she checked her email on March 27. While at her job at the University of Iowa Admission Visitors Center, the third-year student discovered she had been awarded the 2026 Goldwater Scholarship. This prestigious scholarship supports undergraduates pursuing careers in research within mathematics, natural sciences, and engineering.
Osborne, who hails from Bloomington, Illinois, initially came to Iowa with aspirations of becoming an elementary educator. Her academic path took a turn after attending a seminar led by Susan Meerdink, an assistant professor in the UI School of Earth, Environment, and Sustainability. Inspired by Meerdink’s work, Osborne shifted her focus to a double major in geographical and sustainability science, with a concentration in geographic information science (GIS), and environmental policy and planning.
Since January 2025, Osborne has been conducting research in Meerdink’s lab. Her work focuses on examining the responses of bur oak trees to elevated carbon dioxide levels and heat stress. Utilizing a light-measuring technique, Osborne studies the leaves of these trees, research that holds potential for remote monitoring of tree health through drones, airplanes, or satellites.
Meerdink praises Osborne, stating, “In research, Nina is a smart, motivated, organized leader who completes both experimental and analytical tasks thoroughly and thoughtfully. I am always pleasantly surprised by the quality and quantity of work Nina reports as complete during our weekly meetings.”
Osborne finds immense fulfillment in her research endeavors. “It’s the most rewarding thing I have ever done in my life, period,” she states, reflecting on the profound impact of her academic pursuits. Her research experience has provided her with continuous learning opportunities and a deeper understanding of the natural world.
Beyond her research, Osborne is deeply involved in the University of Iowa community. She trains tour guides and leads campus tours for the admissions office, serves as a teaching assistant, and mentors peers through the Honors Program. In her spare time, she enjoys outdoor activities like running, biking, and hiking.
Osborne also dedicates time to volunteer with the Iowa Raptor Project, where she cares for birds and engages with visitors at the Macbride Nature Recreation Area. She values the hands-on experience and the opportunity to connect with others who share her enthusiasm for learning and growth.
Looking to the future, Osborne aims to attend graduate school and continue her research on monitoring ecosystems in remote areas. “Nina sets herself apart with her level of engagement and enthusiasm,” Meerdink expresses, emphasizing Osborne’s willingness to take risks and learn from mistakes—qualities that promise a bright future in STEM fields.
Reflecting on her time at Iowa, Osborne appreciates the university’s vibrant academic environment. “It’s so fascinating to be around so many people who love what they’re studying and are so engaged in it,” she shares, underscoring her commitment to personal growth and her passion for her studies.
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