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Juniors Aravind Krishnan and Tej Patel at Penn University have been awarded the 2024 Harry S. Truman Scholarships, a grant that provides up to $30,000 for graduate or professional education for students aiming for public service careers. Krishnan, a co-founder of plant-based biosensor engineering company ToxiSense, plans to focus his studies on immunology and infectious disease, while Patel, a researcher in healthcare delivery and health economics, has an interest in translating research insights into viable policy solutions. The Truman Foundation, created by Congress in 1975, awards the scholarship each year to students who demonstrate potential for a career in public service, including government roles, non-profit work, and education.
Two Penn Students Secure 2024 Truman Scholarship
Two Penn undergraduates, Aravind Krishnan and Tej Patel, have been awarded the 2024 Harry S. Truman Scholarship. This prestigious national award provides $30,000 towards graduate or professional education for students aiming for a career in public service.
Krishnan and Patel, both juniors studying in the Vagelos Program in Life Sciences and Management, were selected from 709 nominees across 285 institutions to join the 60 Truman Scholars for 2024.
Established in 1975, the Truman Foundation annually recognizes students with exceptional potential planning to pursue careers in public service, encompassing roles in government, nonprofits, or education. The latest awards bring Penn’s total to 32 Truman Scholars since the program’s inception in 1977.
Krishnan co-founded ToxiSense to develop plant-based biosensors for cost-effective bacterial toxin testing in medical products and water. He also chairs Penn’s Shelter Health Outreach Program. Krishnan, recently named the inaugural recipient of the Sarah Katz Award, aims to pursue graduate degrees in immunology and infectious disease.
Patel’s research focuses on healthcare delivery and health economics. He’s co-authored papers on radiation oncology and cost-effective care. He also leads the Social Equity Action Lab, and works in the Human Algorithm Collaboration Lab, creating improved algorithms to integrate AI into clinical practice.
Truman Scholars participate in multiple programs and fellowships to bolster their careers, frequently in Washington, D.C. Both Krishnan and Patel share a strong interest in leveraging public policy for positive societal impact.
Penn undergraduates interested in the Truman Scholarship can apply with the aid of the University’s Center for Undergraduate Research and Fellowships. Both Krishnan and Patel emphasized the importance of authenticity and passion when applying.
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