Mary Adesina, a Ph.D. student in cell and molecular biology at the 91ÁÔĆć, has been awarded the 2025–26 International Fellowship from the American Association of University Women (AAUW). The highly competitive award supports women pursuing full-time graduate or postdoctoral study in the United States who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents.
Adesina, originally from Nigeria, is in her third year of doctoral study in the Department of Biology and Biochemistry within the College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics. Her research focuses on the role of the ADAR1 protein in the body’s immune response, with the goal of improving therapeutic outcomes for cancer patients through RNA editing technologies.
“This fellowship feels like a reward for my consistency and hard work,” Adesina said. “It’s a reminder that if something is worth doing, it’s worth doing well.”
AAUW International Fellowships are awarded to women who demonstrate a commitment to empowering other women and girls through education and community service. In addition to her academic pursuits, Adesina has contributed to public health initiatives in Nigeria, particularly those aimed at improving cancer screening and education for women.
Her interest in cancer research stems from firsthand observations of limited treatment access and diagnostic tools in her home country. Before beginning her doctoral studies, she worked with the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research on projects related to cervical cancer and the human papillomavirus (HPV).
“I saw the challenges many women faced when it came to cancer treatment,” she said. “That experience sparked my passion to explore research that could lead to better therapeutic options, especially in underserved populations.”
Adesina’s current work investigates how ADAR1—a protein involved in RNA editing—can be leveraged to modulate immune responses and enhance the effectiveness of chemotherapy. While her research is broadly applicable to multiple cancer types, her motivation remains rooted in improving care outcomes for women.
She credits her research mentor, Quentin Vicens, for providing crucial support and guidance throughout her doctoral journey.
“Dr. Vicens has played a significant role in shaping my development as a scientist,” Adesina said. “His mentorship has not only deepened my understanding of molecular biology but also inspired me to pursue research that makes a real-world impact.”
The $25,000 fellowship will support Adesina’s research activities and tuition, while also expanding her professional network of women scientists in STEM.
Looking ahead, Adesina hopes her research will lead to breakthroughs in cancer treatment and encourage other women in science to remain committed to their goals.
“Opportunities like this fellowship show that hard work does pay off,” she said. “No matter where you’re from, your dreams are valid.”
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