Recognition Achieved: Kamena Kostova Named 2025 Freeman Hrabowski Scholar

Kamena Kostova: A Rising Star in Scientific Research

Kamena Kostova, Ph.D., an Assistant Investigator at the Stowers Institute for Medical Research, has recently been awarded the prestigious title of 2025 Freeman Hrabowski Scholar by the Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI). This recognition highlights her exceptional potential to drive significant advancements in her field and contribute positively to the research environment.

A New Chapter at Stowers Institute

Dr. Kostova started her lab at the Stowers Institute in 2024, where she has focused her research on ribosomes—essential molecular structures responsible for the production of proteins. The objective of her lab is to delve into the intricacies of ribosomal composition and its implications for various biological processes, including embryogenesis. This study is critical, as understanding the role of ribosomes may lead to insights into disease mechanisms and potential treatments.

"We are fortunate to be operating at a time when new technologies such as genome editing and cryo-electron microscopy empower us to examine ribosomal function in unprecedented detail," Dr. Kostova stated. "Our research aims not only to expand the fundamental understanding of ribosomes but also to unveil insights that could have clinical relevance."

The Freeman Hrabowski Scholars program, launched in 2022, is designed to honor and support significant early-career researchers like Kostova. Scholars are appointed for five years and can renew for another five, provided their progress meets the program's criteria. The program is named to honor Dr. Freeman A. Hrabowski III, the former President of the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC), acknowledging his impact on the scientific community.

A Commitment to Science and Mentorship

Dr. Alejandro Sánchez Alvarado, President and Chief Scientific Officer of the Stowers Institute, spoke highly of Kostova’s contributions. "Kamena's research is transforming our understanding of ribosomes, which have long captivated scientists. Her scientific creativity complements her dedication to mentorship and creating a flourishing lab environment. We are proud to see her receive this accolade."

Raised in Bulgaria, Dr. Kostova completed her undergraduate studies in biology at MIT before earning her Ph.D. in biomedical sciences from the University of California, San Francisco. Prior to her current role, she successfully led an independent research team at the Carnegie Institution for Science and was a recipient of the NIH Director's Early Independence Award in 2019.

In response to her new honor, Dr. Kostova expressed her gratitude: "I am truly honored to be part of this remarkable community of scientists who are not only advancing research but also redefining scientific practice. The values espoused by the Freeman Hrabowski Scholars Program resonate deeply with me—active scientific inquiry and fostering environments where every individual feels respected and empowered to contribute."

About the Stowers Institute for Medical Research

The Stowers Institute, established in 1994 by Jim and Virginia Stowers, is a non-profit biomedical research organization. The Institute is dedicated to expanding our understanding of fundamental life processes with the aim of improving health quality through innovative disease treatment and prevention strategies. Spanning 20 independent research programs, the Institute employs around 500 members, including principal investigators, postdoctoral researchers, and graduate students.

For more information about the Stowers Institute and its graduate programs, visit www.stowers.org.

For additional inquiries, please contact:
Joe Chiodo, Director of Communications, Stowers Institute
Phone: 724.462.8529
Email: [email protected]