Congratulations Sara Gaiser – Menzie Junior Student of the Year Award
The Heather Menzie Junior Student of the Year Award is presented in honor of Ms. Heather Menzie, a graduate student at UT Health who was unexpectantly taken from us on May 13, 2015. Heather was remembered by her classmates as a “servant leader.” In memory of Heather, this award recognizes a graduate student who demonstrates academic and research excellence.
Sara Gaiser is a fourth-year DDS/PhD Student in the Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics Department under the mentorship of Dr. Kadosh. Sara’s research investigates translational mechanisms that control environmental stress responses, morphogenesis and biofilm formation in the major human fungal pathogen, Candida albicans. According to Dr. Kadosh, her research “is significant because it is likely to provide new information leading to the development of new and more effective antifungals to treat candidiasis.” In addition to Sara’s groundbreaking research, her academic achievements include numerous awards.
Sara embodies many servant leadership qualities and often spends her time helping others through mentorship, community service, and outreach initiatives. Sara served as the main organizer of the Microbiology Immunology & Molecular Genetics Department Conklyn Mini-symposium. She is actively involved as an Event Manager for Students of Dentistry. She has trained and mentored new graduate students in the lab as well as mentor high school students in the Voelcker Biomedical Research program and college students in the STUROP Program. Sara is the founder and President of the Lab Researchers with Ambition to Serve (Lab RATS) organization, which is focused on volunteer service around San Antonio and educating the public about science. To read more about Sara’s volunteer journey and the Lab RATS, visit our article on the Pipette Gazette.
Join us in congratulating Sara for her many accomplishments.