2025 - 2026 Scholars
Olivia is an incoming PhD student in mechanical engineering, transitioning from her undergraduate studies at Mississippi State University. Originally from Petal, MS, she has been researching lattice-integrated spinal implants designed for additive manufacturing.
Under the mentorship of Dr. Ashley Spear, Olivia plans to pursue research in computational solid mechanics and computational materials science, with an emphasis in metal additive manufacturing.
In her spare time, Olivia enjoys painting, traveling, and spending time with her friends and family.
Olivia received the Ruth Novak and Karen and Paul Ross Award.
Isabella Hoyer is a Ph.D. student in Chemical Engineering at the University of Utah. She earned her B.S. in Chemical Engineering from the University of Washington, with a minor in Data Science.
While at UW, she conducted honors research focused on sustainability, served as Vice President of Women in Chemical Engineering, and taught as an Engineering Peer Educator.
At the University of Utah, she will be conducting research in Dr. Kody Powell’s lab, where she plans to pursue research in geothermal energy. Isabella is passionate about mentoring and outreach, and hopes to pursue a career in academia, developing sustainable energy solutions while supporting the next generation of engineers.
Erica received the Diane and Tom Might Scholar Award.
Erica is starting her first year as a Chemical Engineering PhD student. She received her bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering with a concentration in Biomolecular Engineering from Clemson University. During her undergrad, Erica was involved in research using microfluidic devices to study the effects of fluid shear stress on metastatic ER+ breast cancer.
Erica plans to conduct research during her PhD related to biomolecular engineering and biotechnology, with the end goal of pursuing a career in pharmaceutical research and development.
Erica received the ARCS Utah Chapter Award.
Cameron Reinisch, MD, earned his medical degree at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, where he was mentored by and conducted research with renowned corneal specialist and scientist Edward Holland, MD. Holland researches limbal stem cell deficiency, an eye condition where the cornea loses its ability to heal and renew itself properly, and the potential use of stem cell transplantation to treat it.
Dr. Reinisch’s scientific publications have focused on post-operative outcomes, including graft failure, immunosuppressant therapies, and their systemic impact, as well as a previously unreported post-stem cell transplant finding coined “sludging,” and how this differs from rejection. He has presented research findings at the American Academy of Ophthalmology, American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, American Society of Retina Specialists, and local research conferences in Ohio.
As a resident at the John A. Moran Eye Center, he plans to expand his research in ocular immunology and stem cell regeneration through innovative methods and interventions.
Dr. Reinisch received the Kathie and Mark Miller Award in honor of former Moran CEO Randall J Olson, MD.
Amanda Wade, MD, graduated with honors from Seattle University with a Bachelor of Arts in English/Creative Writing. She subsequently completed a post-baccalaureate at Portland State University before earning a medical degree from Oregon Health and Science University.
At the Casey Eye Institute, under the mentorship of Christina Flaxel, MD, she focused on projects related to long-term outcomes in the treatment of acute retinal necrosis, an inflammatory eye disease. She has additionally published work related to high-value care in medical education.
As a resident at the John A. Moran Eye Center, Dr. Wade plans to focus her research on identifying and addressing factors that influence glaucoma treatment. She is committed to advancing eye care equity and education, both locally and across the globe. In her free time, she also enjoys puns.
Dr. Wade received the Kathie and Mark Miller Award in honor of Moran CEO Jeff Pettey, MD, MBA.