Three Boston University Researchers Receive Top US Honour for Early-Career Scientists

By Siya February 11, 2025
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Three researchers from Boston University (BU) have been awarded the prestigious Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers by the US government—the highest honour granted to early-career scientists and engineers in the country.

The recipients, Zeba Wunderlich, Michelle Sander, and Elizabeth Bettini, were recognised for their groundbreaking research in genetics, laser technology, and special education. The awards were confirmed by former US President Joe Biden, who praised the winners for their “exceptional potential for leadership early in their research careers.”

Advancing Scientific Frontiers

Zeba Wunderlich, an associate professor of biology at BU’s College of Arts & Sciences, studies how DNA variations impact individual development. Expressing gratitude for the recognition, she stated, “It’s a privilege to research topics I’m passionate about while training the next generation of scientists.”

Her research focuses on decoding complex parts of the genome to predict how genetic mutations contribute to developmental disorders. She added, “Understanding how DNA, with just four ‘letters,’ encodes the complexity of organisms is key to medical advancements.”

Michelle Sander, head of BU’s Ultrafast Optics Laboratory, is pioneering research on laser pulses lasting mere femtoseconds—a millionth of a billionth of a second. Her goal is to develop super-resolution photothermal imaging systems that surpass current commercial technology. She explained, “These optical systems can drive new discoveries in health sciences, materials research, and contamination monitoring.”

Championing Equity in Education

Elizabeth Bettini, an associate professor of special education at BU’s Wheelock College of Education, focuses on eliminating disparities in access to skilled teachers. She stated, “I investigate why students face inequities in education based on disability, race, and socioeconomic status and explore solutions to close these gaps.”

This recognition underscores the US government’s commitment to fostering innovation across disciplines and highlights Boston University’s role in shaping the future of science and education.

Source: SHIKSHA

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