In recent UT Dallas news, researchers Melanie Maurer, Arden Wells, and Maria Castaneda have made headlines, each securing a coveted Graduate Research Fellowship from the National Science Foundation (NSF). The NSF fellowship program aims to promote exceptional graduate students who are pursuing research-driven master’s and doctoral degrees in STEM fields. This prestigious award provides three years of financial support to those who have showcased the ability to advance research and STEM education. In addition to their academic achievements, these students balance community activities, employment, and family responsibilities as they strive to find research solutions in biomedical engineering, chemistry, and geosciences. Read about their contributions and future endeavors as they embark in research that has global impact. Congratulations to these remarkable students and best of luck!