The National Science Foundation (NSF) announced the 2026 awards in its Graduate Research Fellowship Program (GRFP), a prestigious and competitive fellowship that helps support outstanding graduate research across the country.
Among the UW–Madison students receiving GRFPs this year is Tyler Ramos, a graduate student conducting research in the LaFoya Lab in the Department of Biochemistry. Ramos’s research will investigate the metabolic mechanisms of neural stem cells to understand how new neurons are produced during processes like brain development or regeneration. “This research can offer insights into how neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders might be mitigated,” says Ramos. “I am overwhelmed with gratitude to have the financial support to continue learning and growing as a scientist. Being awarded a GRFP is also a testament to the fantastic mentorship and collaboration I received during the application process, and to the many others who encouraged me through this process.”
Kate Loidolt, also in the LaFoya Lab, received an honorable mention.