Piaskowski will research immunology, a key field of interest for her. She eventually hopes to get her PhD in biomedical science and conduct research on immunology and disease.
“Having been personally impacted by family members facing cancer as well as chronic illness,” Piaskowskiexplained, “I have a strong curiosity and connection to the medical field. The constant progress of new questions through new discoveries is a compelling field to be a part of.”
Piaskowski has worked on Marshall’s Huntington campus in several research projects, including on hellbender research with Dr. Jen Mosher. In addition to receiving a Creative Discovery and Research Award for undergraduates in Spring 2018 for that research, Piaskowski also serves as president of the Marshall University Commuter Student Association, is a member of the John Marshall Emerging Leaders Institute, and serves on the Marshall Catholic Newman Center’s Leadership Team. A recipient of the John Marshall Scholarship, she also works as a ballet instructor in her spare time.
Honors College Dean Nicola LoCascio said, “I am delighted that Mary was accepted into this prestigious program. I am totally confident that she will represent Marshall in the best possible light and will benefit greatly from her experience.”
The fellowship partners students with research mentors and brings talented students together for research projects, weekly seminars and more, culminating in a poster presentation experience.
For more information on the Mayo Clinic Summer Undergraduate Research Programs, visitwww.mayo.edu/mayo-clinic-graduate-school-of-biomedical-sciences/programs/summer-undergraduate-research-fellowship. For more information on national scholarships and fellowships, contact Mallory Carpenter with Marshall University’s Office of National Scholarships by phone at 304-696-2475 or by e-mail at Mallory.carpenter@marshall.edu.