Lucas named HHMI Freeman Hrabowski Scholar

Lucas was named one of 30 Freeman Hrabowski Scholars for 2025 by the Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI).

One of the most critical challenges facing U.S. science today is expanding the scientific workforce to maximize scientific innovation and impact.

In 2022, the Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) established the Freeman Hrabowski Scholars Program, designed to support exceptional basic science researchers and physician-scientists who demonstrate strong potential for leadership within their respective fields. Scholars selected for this program commit to conducting groundbreaking research while creating lab environments in which everyone can thrive.

Each Scholar is appointed for an initial five-year term, with the possibility of renewal for an additional five years based on successful performance evaluations. The support provided by HHMI covers full salary, comprehensive benefits, a generous research budget, and funding for scientific equipment. Additionally, Scholars benefit from targeted professional development activities designed to enhance their leadership and mentoring capabilities.