Big congratulations to Biology graduate students Mary Zarilla and Zak Bartholomew, who were each awarded a Fall 2025 Graduate Creative Discovery and Research Award—worth $2,500!
Mary, who works in both the Dingess and Axel labs, received funding for her project: “Assessing Mammalian Biodiversity in the Albertine Rift, Toro-Semliki Wildlife Reserve, Uganda.” Her research explores wildlife conservation in one of the most biodiverse regions in Africa.
Zak, from the Palmquist lab, earned his award for the project: “Effects of Sea-Level Rise and Storm Intensification on Salt Marsh Resilience and Migration,” focusing on the future of coastal ecosystems in the face of climate change.
We’re proud of these students and their meaningful research tackling global environmental challenges. Way to go, Mary and Zak!