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University of Tulsa's Junior Hannah Lott Named 2026 Goldwater Scholar

The University of Tulsa proudly announces that its student Hannah Lott has been awarded the esteemed 2026 Barry Goldwater Scholarship. This distinguished honor is designed to recognize promising undergraduates committed to pursuing careers in scientific research, engineering, and mathematics. The selection of Lott emphasizes not only her academic prowess but also her immense potential to contribute significantly to the scientific community.

Hannah hails from Austin, Texas, and is currently a junior majoring in both chemistry and biochemistry. Her academic journey is characterized by a passion for understanding the intricate workings of biochemistry, particularly in regard to protein pathways and expression patterns. With an eye toward the future, Lott aims to pursue a doctorate in her field, where she plans to apply her computational skills to further advance research.

In her own words, Lott expressed her feelings about receiving the Goldwater Scholarship: "When I applied, I was aware of the intense competition surrounding this award. Thus, to discover my selection as a Goldwater Scholar was both a surprise and a moment of delight!" Such candid enthusiasm showcases not only the recognition of her hard work but also her humble nature, a trait admired by her peers and faculty.

Currently, Lott is engaged in impactful research under the guidance of Assistant Professor Katelyn Mika at UTulsa's Oxley College of Health and Natural Sciences. In this role, she is investigating the evolutionary mechanisms that facilitated the transition from fins to limbs in certain species—a fascinating area of study that bridges biology and evolutionary theory. Moreover, Lott's previous participation in the Tulsa Undergraduate Research Challenge greatly enriched her research experience, honing her skills and bolstering her application for the Goldwater Scholarship.

Reflecting on the support she has received throughout her academic journey, Lott stated, "I am honored and immensely grateful to all those who have helped me in my studies and during the application process." This acknowledgement of her support network highlights the collaborative spirit prevalent within academic communities.

The Barry Goldwater Scholarship and Excellence in Education Foundation has been recognizing brilliant students like Lott for 40 years, nurturing future leaders in various scientific fields. This year alone, over 5,000 undergraduates applied for the scholarship, of which a mere 454 candidates were selected, making Lott's achievement even more remarkable.

Provost Jennifer Airey noted, "It is remarkable that a small, private university like UTulsa has consistently produced Goldwater Scholars—often multiple recipients each year. We're immensely proud of our students and the robust support they receive in their endeavors for prestigious awards like this one."

At UTulsa, the Center for Global Engagement plays a crucial role by advising students on applications for numerous national competitive awards, including the Barry Goldwater Scholarship. This dedicated center works tirelessly to assist all students in navigating their aspirations for scholarships, fellowships, and grants, with the ultimate goal of fostering educational excellence and enhancing global engagement.

In a world where scientifically minded individuals are more important than ever, the University of Tulsa continues to cultivate talent that shows promise in advancing research and innovation. Hannah Lott's achievements exemplify the university's commitment to academic excellence and its enduring contribution to fostering the next generation of researchers who will undoubtedly reshape our understanding of science and its implications for society.