Pharmaceutical Sciences Spotlights

Student Achievements and Award Highlights

Thinking about pursuing a Ph.D.? We know it’s a big commitment—but one that can lead to incredible opportunities. That’s why we’re excited to celebrate the achievements of our outstanding Ph.D. students at the University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy. Their work is pushing the boundaries of pharmaceutical sciences, from developing new therapies for addiction and neurodegenerative diseases to creating innovative drug delivery systems and improving healthcare outcomes.

But it’s not just about the research. These awards provide crucial financial support and open doors to professional growth, global connections, and personal development. We’re committed to helping our students succeed—equipping them with the skills and experience they need to become leaders in biomedical research. If you’re ready to take the next step in your academic journey, you’ll find a supportive and inspiring community here.

Diaris Báez Maldonado

Previous Degree: University of Puerto Rico Aguadilla Campus — BS Biology

Award: Lyman T. Johnson Fellowship

Lab: Dr. Vincent Venditto

Research Focus: Diaris is developing liposomal delivery systems for azithromycin and mRNA encoding IL-1Ra to treat acute inflammatory conditions. Her work aims to provide targeted, effective strategies for controlling excessive inflammation.

"The Lyman T. Johnson Fellowship gave me the freedom to dive deep into my research without financial distractions. It also provided a space where I could share my culture and learn from others, enriching both my academic and personal life here at the University of Kentucky."

Madison Blanton

Previous Degree: Milligan University — BS Chemistry

Award: F31 from the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism

Lab: Dr. Ilhem Messaoudi

Research Focus: Madison investigates how chronic heavy drinking alters the immune system by affecting monocytes and macrophages. Her work aims to understand the long-term effects of alcohol abstinence on these immune cells, ultimately seeking new drug targets to reduce organ damage and alcohol cravings.

"Receiving the F31 grant provided critical financial support, allowing me to fully dedicate myself to my research. Developing the application sharpened my grant writing and scientific communication skills, which are crucial for my future career. Growing up in a community with high rates of alcohol misuse, I’m driven to improve treatment options for communities like my own, and this award has made that possible."

Clare Johnson-Applin

Previous Degrees: Morehead State University — BS Chemistry; UK College of Pharmacy — PharmD, MS

Award: Lyman T. Johnson Fellowship

Lab: Dr. Daniela Moga

Research Focus: Clare's research uses pharmacoepidemiology and clinical informatics to develop predictive models assessing cardiovascular risks associated with high-dose estrogen therapies.

"This fellowship gave me the opportunity to attend the International Conference for Pharmacoepidemiology in Berlin. It was an invaluable experience to network with leading experts and deepen my understanding of pharmacoepidemiology. I feel better equipped to tackle important healthcare questions because of this support."

Emily Prantzalos

Previous Degree: University of Michigan Ann Arbor — BSE Chemical Engineering

Award: Ruth L. Kirschstein NRSA (F31) Fellowship

Lab: Dr. Jill Turner

Research Focus: Emily studies the Neuregulin Signaling Pathway's role in nicotine withdrawal, with the goal of identifying new therapeutic targets for nicotine dependence.

"The F31 fellowship has been a cornerstone of my Ph.D. journey. It funded essential aspects of my research, from behavioral testing to RNA sequencing. Additionally, attending conferences like IBNS expanded my academic network and brought invaluable feedback. This support made it possible to pursue questions that could lead to novel nicotine dependence therapies."

Destiny Regalia

Previous Degree: University of Minnesota Rochester — BS Health Sciences

Award: Lyman T. Johnson Fellowship

Lab: Dr. Caroline Geisler

Research Focus: Destiny investigates how octadecaneuropeptide in the hindbrain influences glucose sensing and interacts with GLP-1 receptor agonists. Her work could lead to new drugs that avoid the negative gastrointestinal side effects of current treatments.

"I’ve always had to work part-time alongside my studies, so receiving this fellowship lifted a huge weight off my shoulders. For the first time, I could fully dedicate myself to my courses and lab work. It’s made a world of difference in my ability to excel academically and scientifically."

Heather True

Previous Degrees: Oregon State University — BS General Science; Pacific University School of Pharmacy — PharmD, MS

Award: CCTS TL1 Training Program

Lab: Dr. Ilhem Messaoudi

Research Focus: Heather studies opioid use disorder in pregnancy, focusing on how chronic opioid exposure affects placental structure, inflammation, and fetal outcomes.

"The TL1 program gave me much more than financial support—it built the foundation for my academic career. From seminars to professional development workshops, each opportunity strengthened my understanding of immune responses in pregnancy. I’m currently preparing two first-author manuscripts—something I couldn’t have achieved without this support."

Jocelyn Martin

Previous Degree: University of Kentucky — BS Neuroscience, Psychology

Award: Lyman T. Johnson Fellowship

Lab: Dr. Jill Turner

Research Focus: Since her individual research project has yet to begin, Jocelyn has been learning various biochemical techniques and behavioral assays to build a strong foundation for it. She has also been shadowing and assisting the four upperclassmen in the Turner Lab, taking note of tips and tricks that will eventually help her in her own research journey.

"This award has allowed me to get my bearings in the program much faster, from easing the transitional period into graduate school to mitigating day-to-day anxieties. As I continue to develop my independence and start the process of standing on my own, there are many unexpected challenges that cause instability regarding my financial situation. This award, the support of the program, and the guidance of its staff and members have been instrumental in providing stability to a very unpredictable and overwhelming time."

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