Awarded in 2026
Home Department: Stem Cell Biology & Regenerative Medicine, Medicine
Faculty Advisors: Michael Longaker (Surgery – Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery), Anne Brunet (Genetics), and Sarah Heilshorn (Materials Science & Engineering)

Research Title: Mechanisms of Fibroblast Dysfunction in Aged Wound Healing

Chronic wounds affect millions of older adults, with age as a leading risk factor for healing failure. Helen’s research investigates how aging affects fibroblasts, the cells that orchestrate skin repair. Helen aims to identify new therapeutic targets that improve healing in aged skin while providing insight into how aging affects regeneration.