In 2022, Dr. Herbert Wertheim made a transformational $100 million gift to The Herbert Wertheim UF Scripps Institute for Biomedical Innovation & Technology. As part of that gift, he established the Wertheim Fellowships, awarded annually to graduate students who demonstrate excellence in biology and chemistry. This competitive fellowship not only advances groundbreaking research but also creates a strong pipeline of scientists, as Wertheim Fellows mentor local high school Kenan Fellow interns each summer through the Glenn W. Bailey STEM Education and Outreach Programs. The experience gives the students real-world research experience and demonstrates the impact of science beyond the classroom.
One of this year’s Wertheim Fellows, “Tony” Kuang-Ting Kuo, is in the final year of his Ph.D. program in the lab of Scientific Director Patrick Griffin, Ph.D. This summer, Tony, along with fellow graduate student Nadeska Montalvan, spent eight weeks co-mentoring high school student Shivangi Saxena, a student at Jupiter Community High School in Jupiter, Fla. For the past five years, Tony’s research focused on metabolic disorders including Type 2 Diabetes and cancer. His work explores how potential medicines interact with their targets and affect other proteins’ expression at a cellular level. The goal is to help find better drugs and treatments for people living with those conditions. Balancing mentorship while preparing to defend his thesis was daunting at first, Tony said, but he quickly saw how impactful the experience could be.
“The mentorship was beneficial for both of us,” Tony said. “I felt it was important that Shivangi was trained to learn the why behind all experiments, including biological background and methodological principles of each step, not just simply followed protocols.” Learning to troubleshoot experiments is an important skill for trainees to learn, he added, and it can apply to any field of study.
Tony said he also benefitted from the experience.
“I also appreciate that our discussions helped reveal blind spots in my own knowledge, motivating me to learn more comprehensively with her,” he shared.
At the culmination of the summer, Kenan Fellows present their work at a symposium for peers, family, faculty, staff and supporters. Shivangi also presented her research in the final lab group meeting she attended. To prepare, Shivangi practiced extensively, including a six-hour rehearsal the day before with Tony and Nadeska.
“We challenged her on everything,” Tony said. “She was exhausted after, but she handled her presentation so well in front of everyone. She became more independent and confident. It was clear she’s ready not only for the challenges of an undergraduate degree, but she also has the potential to excel as a graduate student.”
The generosity of Dr. Wertheim empowers students to focus on their research without financial stress, while advancing mentorship and discovery in the causes they care most about. Fellowships open doors for younger researchers like Shivangi while supporting experienced students like Tony, creating mentorship opportunities that benefit both. Thanks to investments from visionary donors, The Wertheim UF Scripps Institute is training the next generation of scientists who will drive discoveries in human health for years to come. You can join us in this mission by making a gift to support these emerging leaders in science. To contribute, please visit https://wertheim.scripps.ufl.edu/support-science/give-now/ or or contact the Office of Advancement at 561-228-2055 or tracykerwin@ufl.edu.
