Congratulations to Frederika Sullivan, current 1st year NGP student and on rotation in the Wright lab, for her award and recognition by the National Science Foundation (NSF) Graduate Research Fellowship Program (GRFP).  The purpose of the NSF GRFP is to help ensure the quality, vitality, and diversity of the scientific and engineering workforce of the United States. A goal of the program is to broaden participation of the full spectrum of diverse talents in STEM. Frederika’s award includes $159,000 over 3 years and provides stipend money and financial support for her studies.

Frederika’s research proposal pertains to investigating how microglia influence cortical interneuron composition in human cortical organoids and also, characterizing how microglia control the molecular properties of human cortical interneurons. As a third time applicant, Frederika cannot overstate the importance of and her gratitude for the high–quality mentorship that enabled and inspired her. Frederika says, ‘I am determined to excel in providing mentorship and interpersonal support, cultivating diversity for a more equitable field, and creating the opportunities I yearned for through my prior educational pursuits. My goal to become an interdisciplinary researcher and professor is seeded in my joy of learning and sharing knowledge.’

The Vollum also congratulates Mariel Micael, a PREP postbaccalaureate in the Freeman lab, who was awarded an honorable mention. Next, Mariel is headed to UC San Diego’s Neuroscience Graduate Program in the incoming 2024 cohort.