UTPB graduate Sarai Badillo has been awarded a highly competitive NSF Graduate Research Fellowship and will be attending a PhD program at the University of Oklahoma.
A part of the HSI-STEM program at UTPB, Badillo graduated with a bachelor's of science in biology and a minor in psychology.
“Participating in the HSI STEM Research program was a rewarding experience. Collaborating with Dr. Hembry and Dr. Sparks as an undergraduate provided me with invaluable research exposure and financial support,” said Badillo.
Her current research focuses on the microbiome variation within and among species of leaf flower moths. At the University of Oklahoma, she will focus on microbiology and immunology.
Badillo says she cherishes the people at UTPB the most, and the unwavering support they have offered along the way. At the previous institution Badillo attended, she faced academic suspension due to low grades. She says she never imagined completing her degree, let alone receiving the fellowship opportunity.
“Thanks to mentors like Dr. Hembry and Dr. Oldham, who believed in me, I'm embarking on a fully-funded PhD program at my dream school. To all mentors: your guidance is invaluable, and to fellow students: perseverance pays off—never lose hope!” said Badillo.
