I am a Brown University student aspiring to concentrate in an independent major exploring literature and politics in theory. My focus area is largely on reproductive justice, women's health, and sex education curriculum!

Hi! My name is Aaryn and I'm entering my third and final year of Biological Sciences at Durham University. I completed my research project in summer 2024, with a Leadership in Action project in Boston, summer 2025. My research project focused on the regulation of stem cells in model organism Drosophila melanogaster (common fruit flies) specifically investigating genes linked to cancer in humans and my LiA is with the Timothy Smith Network. I am particularly interested in genetics and disease, and I would like to pursue a career in clinical research. Outside of my studies, I also work as a student librarian, and I enjoy singing in my college jazz band and musicals, playing netball, reading, and art!

Hello! My name is James McLean, and I am currently pursuing an integrated master’s program in Physics at the University of Leeds. My research project , in the realm of Bio-nano-Physics , focuses on an imaging technique known as mass photometry, which aims to observe the landing sites of polysaccharides without the necessity for external markers. My passion for applied physics is diverse, stretching from the medical field to aerospace and aeronautical engineering. I am actively involved with the Leeds University Rocketry Association (LURA), where we aim to break the UKRA amateur University record . Additionally, I have a keen interest in pure physics, drawing inspiration from groundbreaking research at institutions like CERN. I am eager to connect with other ambitious and determined individuals who are committed to leveraging scientific innovation to benefit society and humanity. Let’s collaborate to make a significant impact!

Hello! I am a junior in the College of Arts & Sciences at Cornell University. I study cognitive science, with interdisciplinary interests in data science and across the social sciences. As a Laidlaw scholar, I am working on a transdisciplinary project dealing with the socioecological impacts of Indonesia's national capital city relocation from Jakarta to Nusantara. Through the K. Lisa Yang Center for Conservation Bioacoustics, I assist in combining bioacoustic technology and ethnographic research methods to study human and "more-than-human" communities in East Kalimantan and how they are affected by Nusantara's construction. In the summer of 2025, I traveled onsite for my LiA to work directly with community partners at Mulawarman University and led the development of materials preserving the ecological and cultural heritage of this area amidst cultural change. Outside of academics and research, you can find me paddling on Cayuga Lake, reading speculative fiction, or making art. Please feel free to reach out to me here or at kcr53@cornell.edu!

Hello everyone! My name is Kira, and I am going into my second year of undergraduate studies double majoring in Political Science and Philosophy at the University of Toronto. My research interests focus on climate politics and environmental ethics/governance, which complements my Laidlaw project on climate consciousness in undergraduate students. I enjoy spending time outdoors (when it's nice out) and participating in various extracurricular activities. I am very excited to be part of this 2024 cohort and look forward to seeing what we all accomplish!

Hello, I'm Elizabeth Pwanidi Philip, and I'm excited to share why I'm interested in the Laidlaw Scholarship. I'm currently a first-year international student at Durham University, studying Criminology. Growing up in Nigeria gave me a deep appreciation for community, diversity, and the power of collective effort. Beyond my studies, I have a passion for volunteering, reading, creative writing, and cooking. These interests have taught me valuable lessons about teamwork, dedication, and creativity. I'm a strong believer in giving back to the community, which is why I volunteer at my church's catering service every Monday during term time and volunteer at my college. These experiences have shaped my commitment to helping others. I'm drawn to the Laidlaw Scholarship because it aligns with my passion for leadership and positive social change. I believe that effective leaders are those who not only excel in their fields but also inspire and uplift others. The Laidlaw community's emphasis on leadership, research, and community engagement resonates with me deeply. I'm particularly interested in researching imposter syndrome, a challenge I've faced and continue to work through. The opportunity to explore this topic could help not only me but also others who struggle with similar feelings. With the support of the Laidlaw Scholarship, I hope to develop my leadership skills, conduct meaningful research, and lead community projects that make a difference. I look forward to connecting with like-minded scholars and contributing to a community that values curiosity, compassion, and collaboration. Thank you for taking the time to learn about me. I hope this gives you a sense of my journey and why I'm excited about the Laidlaw Scholarship. I'm eager to meet other scholars and work together toward a brighter future.  

My name is Conor Murphy, and I am a student at Trinity College Dublin studying Theoretical Physics! My research project is about developing knowledge of size dependence of the resistive switching ratio in MoS2 memristors. Outside of physics, I love music and sports.

As a student of Health & Disease, Immunology as Psychology, I am eager to pursue a career in medicine or research! I am deeply passionate about menstrual health 

I am studying Music at Durham University, with a strong interest in disability studies and music education, particularly choral singing and choristership. I am also passionate about social justice, working in for a more equitable and just society which includes all.

Hi! I'm a student in micro-engineering at EPFL, interested in nano-science. I love travelling, biking and film-making.