Asad Baig recently graduated from Drexel University with a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry and a Concentration in Biochemistry. He was introduced to research in his freshman year when he was given the honor to work in Dr. Wood's atmospheric chemistry research group through the Maryanoff Scholarship. He continued to expand his research interests through the co-op system where he joined Dr. Jun Xi's biochemistry research group where he recently won the Dr. Robert O. Hutchins Endowed Chemistry Prize due to his contributions. Through the co-op system he was able to intern at Incyte and AmeriCorps which have developed his career goals and inspired him to apply and procure a Fulbright Graduate Studies at Greek State Universities Award. Asad will be attending the National Technical University of Athens (NTUA) where he will be pursuing a Master of Science in Translational Engineering in Health and Medicine. This program encourages an interdisciplinary approach which prepares students to develop technologies with readily viable applications in solving problems in the field of Health. He is excited to join this cutting-edge program to advance his research, professional, and business skills and bridge the gap between biotechnology and its socioeconomic impact. Outside of academics, Asad is looking forward to explore the beautiful architecture of Athens, (attempt to) learn Modern Greek, and brush up on his football skills.

Marleigh Hutchinson graduated from Kansas State University in 2025 with a B.S. in Environmental Engineering. Her academic and research experiences have centered on sustainable water management, particularly the use of nature-based solutions like constructed wetlands to treat wastewater. As an undergraduate research assistant, she contributed to projects on anaerobic membrane bioreactors and post-treatment systems in agricultural reuse. Marleigh also worked with the Sustainable Intensification Innovation Lab, traveling to Cambodia to support the design of a fish waste filtration system for drip irrigation. These experiences, combined with leadership roles in Engineers Without Borders and the College of Engineering, solidified her passion for water security and environmental resilience. Marleigh will pursue a Master’s degree at the Technical University of Crete in Chania, Greece. Her research will focus on optimizing constructed wetlands for urban water treatment as part of a broader effort to integrate nature-based solutions with engineering systems. She is passionate about advancing sustainable infrastructure worldwide. Studying in Greece, a country where ancient innovations in water management continue to inform modern practice, will allow her to explore how history, climate, and culture intersect in the pursuit of environmental resilience.