Katie Aracena (Human Genetics) is a 2020 HHMI Gilliam Fellow. The Gilliam Fellowship for Advanced Study is awarded to exceptional graduate students who are committed to increasing diversity among scientific leaders. Her advisor is Luis Barreiro. HHMI created the Gilliam program in 2004 in honor of the late James H. Gilliam, Jr., a charter trustee of HHMI who spent his life nurturing excellence and diversity in science and education. The Gilliam program seeks to increase the diversity of scientists at the college and university faculty level by supporting students who will become scientific leaders, says David Asai, HHMI’s senior director for science education. For up to three years, each adviser-student pair will receive an annual award totaling $50,000. Advisers will participate in a year of mentor training, where they’ll learn about cultural identities and how to listen and engage across cultures. And fellows will be invited to attend the annual Gilliam meeting and scientific meetings at HHMI headquarters.
Katie Aracena named 2020 HHMI Gilliam Fellow