ATLANTA — For students dreaming of a future in science, research and discovery, the Beckman Scholars Program at Georgia State University offers more than just a scholarship — it’s a launchpad into the world of research. This year, two outstanding students, Kate Halfon and Elijah Thomas, have been selected as Beckman Scholars, joining a prestigious group of young researchers committed to making a difference in the world through science.
The Beckman Scholars Program provides intensive research experiences, mentorship and funding to exceptional undergraduate students in the sciences. Scholars work closely with faculty mentors on long-term research projects, gaining skills and connections that can shape their careers.
“This program makes it possible for our exceptional undergraduates from all backgrounds to focus less on financial burdens and more on successfully developing career paths into graduate education in the sciences,” said Marise Parent, principal investigator of the Beckman Scholars Program.
In 2021, the Arnold and Mabel Beckman Foundation selected Georgia State University as a recipient of the Beckman Scholars Program Award and, in 2024, the foundation announced the partnership with GSU was renewed for three more years. The Arnold and Mabel Beckman Foundation is dedicated to supporting young scientists and paving the way for future discoveries. As Beckman Scholars, Halfon and Thomas will receive $21,000 over 15 months, including travel and supplies, and their faculty mentors will receive $5,000 to support educational expenses.
Learn more about the program, eligibility criteria and how to apply here.
Elijah Thomas: Persistence, Passion and Immunology
Thomas’ journey to becoming a Beckman Scholar is a powerful reminder that persistence pays off. After applying in 2024 and not receiving the award, Thomas didn’t give up. He reapplied — and was selected.
“I was a finalist and didn’t win the Beckman Scholars Award in 2024,” Thomas said. “But that experience helped me grow. I came back stronger, and now I’m here.”
A Biological Sciences major, Thomas is mentored by Dr. Lanying Du in the Institute for Biomedical Sciences and has focused his research on developing therapeutic antibodies to fight influenza — a virus that continues to evolve and impact lives globally.
His passion for immunology is deeply personal. “I’ve faced significant health challenges involving the immune system,” Thomas said. “I know how life-altering it is when your body fights itself. That’s why I want my research to contribute to breakthroughs that help people with autoimmune illnesses and severe allergies.”
Kate Halfon: From Curiosity to Career in Forensic Pathology
Halfon’s path to research began with curiosity — and a desire to make her dreams real. “I had no prior research experience,” Halfon said. “But the Beckman Scholars Program offered a way to dive into research and present my work to others. That was exciting.”
Halfon’s research explores how biological sex and obesity affect Alzheimer’s disease. Her interest in pathology was sparked by a forensic anthropology course and time spent shadowing at a medical examiner’s office. “I’ve always been curious about the brain and diseases,” she said. “After my grandma passed away from Alzheimer’s, I wanted to understand how disease travels through the body and disrupts life.”
Halfon is majoring in Biomedical Science and Enterprise with plans to pursue an M.D. or an M.D./Ph.D. and specialize in pathology. Her ultimate goal? To become a forensic pathologist. “Being involved in a medicolegal profession would let me combine my love for medicine and criminal justice,” Halfon said.
Halfon also praised her mentor, Marise Parent, for making her research experience meaningful. “She truly cares about her students and wants us to get the most out of our research,”Halfon said.
A Message to Future Scientists
Thomas and Halfon’s stories show that research isn’t just for people who’ve already mastered the lab — it’s for anyone with curiosity, drive and a desire to make a difference. Whether you’re just starting your undergraduate journey or thinking about applying to college, the Beckman Scholars Program could be your next big step.
And if you’ve applied before and didn’t get it? Apply again. As Thomas’ story demonstrates, resilience and growth are part of the journey.
Click here to learn more about the Beckman Scholars Program and how to apply.
The Honors College at Georgia State University is a destination for high-achieving students who embody curiosity, take pride in their work and dream about how they can make an impact through their studies and careers. Its mission is to serve students in a welcoming space by engaging students’ curiosity, empowering them to achieve their highest potential and inspiring them to find their place in the world. Its students form life-long friendships, participate in community service, perform research, excel academically, explore their interests and chart their career paths.