My name is Zala Bhan, and I’m a Laidlaw Scholar at Barnard College studying Applied Mathematics with an interest in biostatistics. For me, the Laidlaw program is a tribute to my cultural roots as a Kashmiri Pandit (KP), the ethnic minority of Kashmir, and an effort to preserve and give voice to a history that’s often overlooked. In my first summer, I explored whether a truth and reconciliation framework could offer a path for the reintegration of KPs following their forced exodus of over 300,000 people in 1990. Through case studies of the South African TRC, Bosnia’s post-war efforts, and Chile’s reconciliation process, I examined what healing, accountability, and return may look like in the context of Kashmir. For my LiA, I’m building an oral history archive to preserve the memories and voices of those who lived through the exodus, alongside personal artifacts and memorabilia. This archive aims to preserve lived experiences, support future research, and spark conversations about justice, memory, and belonging. I hope to continue this work long after the summer ends, deepening the archive and expanding its reach.

Hello! I'm a second year Biology student at the University of Leeds and I'm part of the 2024 Scholars cohort. I have been trying to figure people out for a long time and I thought what better way than to explore the wonders of neuroscience in my first year research project!? If you want to chat about books, the economic/political state of the world right now, or just life - drop me a message!

Hi! My name is Francesca and I am entering my third and final year at the University of Leeds studying Geography (BSc).  My research project focused on understanding students' expectations of sustainability in their curriculum and experience at the University. The research gained a well rounded perspective of sustainability practices in academic settings and how student voice can be an effective tool for engaging in sustainability further and creating beneficial change.  My LiA is with the make_sense organisation in Medellín, Colombia and focuses on Peace and Social Resilience within Picacho, an area in the city.   I look forward to connecting with many like-minded individuals who are eager to make significant change and adapt the needs of humanity in this climate crisis. 

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!

Hey! I'm Abo. I'm in my final year of Biomedical Sciences at Trinity College Dublin. I'm specialising in Immunology and have a keen interest in the role of inflamation in neurodegenerative conditions such as Multiple Sclerosis and Alzheimer's Disease.  I got the fantastic opportunity to present my Summer 1 research at Columbia University in NYC this past November, and conducted my Summer 2 Leadership in Action Project in Boston! 

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!

Dia dhaoibh! My name is Aoibheann, and I’m a 3rd-year physics student at Trinity College Dublin. I chose this course because it strikes the perfect balance between theory and experimentation, allowing me to explore the fundamental particles and forces that govern the universe—though I'm still working on fully understanding them! My research project delved into my latest fixation which is the history and philosophy of science. I focused on scientific authority in colonised Ireland, exploring how knowledge was often controlled and manipulated by those in power. It’s a topic that combines my love of history and science, as it reveals how knowledge itself can be a tool of influence. I’m really interested in understanding how science is never truly neutral—it can shape cultures, reinforce power dynamics, and even be used to control narratives, making it an issue that is still relevant in today's world. Beyond my studies, I love sea swimming and have trained as a lifeguard. I’m also a proud Irish speaker and love promoting Irish language and culture whenever I can.

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 a student at Cornell University majoring in Environment & Sustainability with a concentration in Land, Air, and Water Resources. I am passionate about learning about the environment and solutions to address the climate crisis. 

I am a current undergraduate student at Cornell University studying Biological Sciences in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. Through my studies in Biology and my observation of the natural world, I have developed a deep interest in conservation and intersectional climate justice. Particularly, I am interested in using innovative tools such as eDNA barcoding to restore ecosystems and  in mitigating and reversing the effects of climate change. For this reason, I am very grateful to be working in the Cheong Lab this summer as a part of the Commons Biodiversity Project.  Outside my academics I love to read books, cook and watch movies.