The Howard Hughes Medical Institute, a science philanthropy that seeks to advance basic biomedical research and science education to advance humanity, today announced the 2023-2024 cohort of HHMI Gilliam Fellows. This program recognizes graduate students and their advisors for outstanding research and work to increase inclusion in science.

We are thrilled to announce that Alyssa Paparella, a member of the 2019-2020 PREP@UC Davis cohort, received a Gilliam Fellowship!

Alyssa is a doctoral candidate at the Cancer and Cell Biology Program in the Baylor College of Medicine and NSF Graduate Research Fellow. She has worked assiduously for full inclusion of disabled scientists in research and has been recognized nationally for her leadership in building community while simultaneously educating faculty and administrators in this critical area.

UC Davis grad student María Ayala and her advisor, PREP@UCD trainer James Letts, also have been named as Gilliam Fellows (and we should note that HHMI Gilliam Fellows director Josh Hall for years directed the PREP site at UNC and provided leadership to the entire PREP community across the US).

“The Gilliam Fellowship not only supports incredibly talented graduate students who are poised to become future leaders in science, but it also engages thesis advisers and institutions in the work of creating training environments in which all students can thrive.” -- Joshua Hall, HHMI

Gilliam Fellows receive three years of financial support from HHMI and become members of a vibrant Gilliam Fellows community. Their advisors participate in a year-long mentorship course that focuses on improving communication, managing expectations, developing equitable and inclusive mentoring relationships, and disseminating their training at their home institution.

Congratulations to Alyssa! We couldn't be happier for you.