MIT’s Lara Ozkan Awarded 2025 Marshall Scholarship for Graduate Study

Lara Ozkan, an exemplary academic achiever from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), has been honored with the 2025 Marshall Scholarship. This prestigious scholarship, funded by the British government, enables outstanding American students to pursue graduate studies in the United Kingdom. Ozkan intends to further her studies at Cambridge University and Imperial College London, focusing on areas poised to drive future innovation and societal advancements—specifically, in the realms of biological science and artificial intelligence and machine learning.

The Marshall Scholarship is a highly sought-after accolade that recognizes and supports the intellectual and leadership potential of young Americans. “We are so proud that Lara will be representing MIT in the U.K.,” stated Kim Benard, Associate Dean of Distinguished Fellowships at MIT. Benard highlighted Ozkan’s impressive body of work and underscored the institute’s excitement for her forthcoming contributions. Her path involves pursuing an MPhil in biological science at Cambridge’s Sanger Institute, followed by a master’s degree by research in artificial intelligence at Imperial College. Her goal is to innovate within women’s health, leveraging computational tools to significantly advance this field.

A Testament to Research Excellence

Much of Lara Ozkan’s journey began well before her tenure at MIT. Her research in computational biology started at the Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, laying a solid foundation for her current pursuits. At MIT, she joined the Media Lab’s Conformable Decoders group, a pioneering team developing flexible and wearable electronics, specifically focusing on technologies like breast cancer wearable ultrasound systems. These are part of a broader array of advanced computing technologies at MIT, representing a particularly promising aspect of computational wearable health technologies.

Her work has not only been theoretical but also highly practical, evidenced by her contributions to Professor Manolis Kellis’ computational biology research group and involvement in the AI ethics curricula at the MIT Schwarzman College of Computing. Her multidisciplinary approach has earned her the MIT Susan Hockfield Prize in Life Sciences, acknowledging her innovative contributions and leadership potential.

Transitioning From Academia to Real-World Applications

Ozkan’s trajectory illustrates a seamless blend of academic prowess and real-world applications. Within the field of flexible electronics, Ozkan’s work with the MIT Conformable Decoders group examines the utility of flexible materials used in health monitoring systems, sensors, and other wearable electronics. These technologies promise significant advancements in healthcare, with potential applications ranging from advanced health monitoring systems to flexible electronics seamlessly integrated into consumer products and industrial settings.

In addition to her core studies and research assignments, Ozkan has embarked on internships with Accenture Gen AI Risk and various pharmaceutical firms. These experiences have provided her with invaluable insights into the practical uses of responsible AI in healthcare, equipping her to better address real-world challenges and to further the potential of AI-Powered solutions.

Leadership and Community Engagement

Beyond her academic and research accomplishments, Lara Ozkan is a decisive leader and an active community member. As president and executive director of MIT Capital Partners and the MIT Sloan Business Club, she facilitates valuable connections between entrepreneurship spheres and venture capital. She contributes to the diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts at MIT and acts as an undergraduate peer ambassador.

Ozkan’s dedication to influencing positive change extends to her voluntary work with MIT CodeIt, where she teaches computer science to middle-school girls, and as a counselor with Camp Kesem, supporting children whose families have been affected by cancer. These activities underscore her commitment to enhancing the student experience at MIT and promoting education and support within the community.

Lara Ozkan’s achievement as a 2025 Marshall Scholar epitomizes her ability to seamlessly integrate her studies, research, and community involvement, making her a formidable force in advancing technology and education. Her selection as a Marshall Scholar is not only a personal triumph but also a clear signal of her potential to impact the world positively through education and technological innovation.

For further information on Lara Ozkan’s achievements and the 2025 Marshall Scholarship, visit MIT’s source.