Wake Forest University has announced that Mai Soliman, a junior majoring in biochemistry and molecular biology, has been awarded the 2025 Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship. This scholarship is considered the top undergraduate award for students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. Soliman is one of 441 college students nationwide to receive this honor for the academic year 2025-26.
The Goldwater Scholarship aims to identify future leaders in scientific research. Recipients are chosen based on exceptional academic merit from a competitive pool of over 5,000 sophomores and juniors across various institutions studying natural sciences, mathematics, and engineering.
“The Goldwater scholarship has opened a whole new world of opportunities and future experiences,” said Soliman. “It is exciting and an honor to represent Wake Forest on a national stage.”
Soliman’s application process was guided by Debbie French, a professor of science education at Wake Forest. French praised Soliman’s originality and analytical skills: “Mai’s originality, analytical acumen and dedication to research are unparalleled for someone at her career stage.” She added that Soliman’s intellectual curiosity positions her well for significant contributions to public health and regenerative medicine.
During her time at Wake Forest, Soliman has engaged in research with Dr. Emmanuel Opara at the University’s Institute for Regenerative Medicine as well as with the Epidemiology and Cardiology Research Center at Wake Forest School of Medicine. Her post-graduation plans include attending medical school to further study regenerative medicine and stem cell research.
Dr. Opara commented on Soliman’s dedication: “Mai is very highly driven and self-motivated… She possesses an unusual zeal for research.”
Soliman has explored various areas of medical research including indoor air pollution related to cardiovascular mortality, risk factors for cardiovascular disease through population studies, and novel cell therapy applications aimed at treating diabetes.
“With the relationship between cardiovascular disease and diabetes… I am excited about the possible applications my research may have on the larger scientific community,” she said.
Goldwater Scholars often proceed to win other prestigious fellowships such as the NSF Graduate Research Fellowship or Rhodes Scholarship among others. The nomination process for this scholarship at Wake Forest is managed by James Pease through the University Scholars Office.
