In a proud moment for the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), four exceptional undergraduate students have been selected as 2025 Barry Goldwater Scholars, a top honor recognizing academic excellence and research potential in science, engineering, and mathematics.
This year’s recipients include Avani Ahuja and Jacqueline Prawira from the School of Engineering, and Julianna Lian and Alex Tang from the School of Science. The Goldwater Scholarship is one of the most competitive and prestigious undergraduate awards in the United States. Out of an estimated 5,000 students nominated nationwide, only 441 were selected for the 2025 cohort.
A Prestigious Pathway for Future Scientists and Engineers
Since its establishment in 1989 by the Barry Goldwater Scholarship and Excellence in Education Foundation, the scholarship has helped shape the careers of students who go on to become leaders in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). The award provides financial assistance and national recognition to high-achieving college sophomores and juniors who plan to pursue research careers.
Avani Ahuja – Engineering for Women’s Health
A double major in Mechanical Engineering and Electrical Engineering, Avani Ahuja conducts groundbreaking research in the Conformable Decoders group within the MIT Media Lab. Her current focus is on designing a wearable breast ultrasound patch, aimed at making breast cancer screening more accessible and user-friendly.
“Working in the Media Lab has shaped how I view inclusive design in research,” says Ahuja. She credits her mentor, Professor Canan Dagdeviren, the LG Career Development Professor of Media Arts and Sciences, for providing invaluable support throughout her academic journey.
Ahuja plans to pursue a PhD in electrical engineering and hopes to lead research in electromechanical systems, especially in the field of women’s health, while also taking on a role in academia.
“This recognition highlights the importance of women’s health research and motivates me to continue pushing boundaries in this field,” she adds.
Julianna Lian – Chemistry with a Purpose
Julianna Lian, a rising senior in the Department of Chemistry, is deeply engaged in research that spans mechanochemistry, organic chemistry, and polymer chemistry. Under the mentorship of Professor Jeremiah Johnson, she explores how chemical reactions can be optimized to create new materials with real-world applications.
Outside the lab, Lian is a licensed emergency medical technician (EMT) with MIT Emergency Medical Services, a ClubChem mentorship chair, and a member of MIT THINK — reflecting her commitment to both science and community service.
“Receiving this scholarship gave me a moment to reflect on my growth and the many mentors who’ve guided me,” Lian shares. After graduation, she plans to pursue a PhD in organic chemistry, focusing on the intersection of synthetic chemistry, computational tools, and materials science — with the long-term goal of teaching at the university level.
Jacqueline Prawira – Sustainability and Materials Science
Majoring in Materials Science and Engineering, Jacqueline Prawira has made significant contributions to sustainable innovation early in her academic career. As part of the Center of Decarbonization and Electrification of Industry, she quickly rose through the ranks — becoming a co-inventor on a patent and a research technician at startup Rock Zero, a company focused on industrial decarbonization.
Her research has also taken her to the Navajo Nation, where she worked alongside Indigenous farmers and students from Diné College to explore sustainable agricultural practices.
“I’ve learned how important it is to truly listen — to people, to context, and to the complexities of real-world sustainability,” Prawira says. Mentored by Professor Yet-Ming Chiang, she envisions a future focused on sustainable materials development, aiming for a PhD in the field.
“Being named a 2025 Goldwater Scholar validates my path and gives me even more drive to make sustainability mainstream, not optional,” she adds.
Alex Tang – Bridging Medicine and Research
Alex Tang, a student in the Department of Biology, is conducting advanced research on immunotherapy and targeted molecular therapy for metastatic colorectal cancer. His work examines how these treatments influence the tumor microenvironment — a crucial factor in cancer progression and treatment resistance.
Tang is mentored by Professor Jonathan Chen at Northwestern University and Professor Nir Hacohen at the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard. He also acknowledges the support of MIT faculty Professor Adam Martin and Professor Angela Belcher, who have guided him since his first year.
“I’m thankful for the mentorship and scientific training that have shaped how I approach research,” says Tang. He plans to pursue physician-scientist training, combining clinical work with laboratory research to improve cancer treatment outcomes.
Supporting the Next Generation of Scientific Leaders
The Goldwater Scholarship Program was created to recognize and support the nation’s most promising undergraduates in STEM. Its goal is to encourage young talent, provide financial support, and connect students with a national network of scientific excellence.
This year’s MIT awardees reflect the university’s ongoing tradition of excellence in research, innovation, and public service. From tackling global health issues to fighting climate change and reimagining sustainable technologies, these students are shaping the future of science — one discovery at a time.