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Thomas Theiner ’25 (left), Matthew O’Connell ’26 (center) and Metri Zughbi ’25 (right) were awarded 2026 National Science Foundation (NSF) Graduate Research Fellowships.
Matthew O’Connell ’26, Thomas Theiner ’25 and Metri Zughbi ’25 all majored in materials science at Lehigh.
University Communications
Christa Neu
Three graduates, all from the Department of Materials Science and Engineering (MSE), were awarded 2026 National Science Foundation (NSF) Graduate Research Fellowships.
Matthew O’Connell ’26, Thomas Theiner ’25 and Metri Zughbi ’25 were among 2,500 recipients of the NSF’s prestigious graduate research fellowships. In total, there were nearly 14,000 nationwide applicants, who represented all 50 U.S. states as well as the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico.
The NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program (GRFP) provides three years of financial support over five years “to graduate students who have demonstrated potential for significant achievements in research,” according to the NSF. Students must be pursuing research-based degrees in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) to be considered.
O’Connell, who is headed to the University of Florida for his graduate studies, received his award for Materials Research — Biomaterials. Zughbi, currently a Ph.D. student at Lehigh, was awarded by the program for Materials Science and Engineering (including Polymers and Ceramics). Theiner, in his first year as a Ph.D. student at the California Institute of Technology, received his award for Materials Research — Physics of Materials.
The GRFP has supported more than 70,000 graduate research fellows since its inception in 1952 and more than 40 former fellows have gone on to receive Nobel Prizes.
Read more about the winners and their research here.
University Communications
Christa Neu
Lehigh University researchers use advanced fluid dynamics modeling to eliminate hot spots and boost thermal management efficiency by 15% in high-density facilities.
Adding to her career in education, Heintzelman opened Get Joy Ice Cream and Coffee, providing employment to those with differing abilities.
Two new members joined the board of trustees and began their terms on July 1.
Director, University Communications
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