(New Orleans LA) – Dr. Maryam Foroozesh, the Margaret W. Kelly Endowed Professor in Chemistry and chair, Division of Mathematical and Physical Sciences; chair, Division of Biological and Applied Health Sciences, and head, Department of Chemistry, at Xavier University of Louisiana, was one of three individuals selected nationwide for the inaugural Council on Undergraduate Research’s (CUR) Chemistry Division Outstanding Mentorship Award, which recognizes excellence in mentoring of undergraduate researchers.

Foroozesh was honored for her acumen in mentor-led chemistry research projects and her work utilizing diversity and inclusion best practices in undergraduate education. She has mentored more than 90 undergraduates in research, many of whom are from groups underrepresented in science. Undergraduate students are frequently coauthors on her 60 publications and more than 85 percent of her students have continued their education in scientific and medicinal fields.

Foroozesh has been a leader in enhancing the mentoring and undergraduate research experiences for Xavier students, catalyzed by the Research Institute for Scientific Advancement (RISE) and Building Infrastructure Leading to Diversity (BUILD) programs, both funded by the National Institutes of Health.

She also has been an active mentor of the National Research Mentoring Network and has mentored a number of early-career faculty members, research associates, and postbaccalaureate technicians. Additionally, She has served in numerous leadership positions at her institution, establishing an inclusive environment for excellence that encourages professional development, fosters meaningful dialogue, and cultivates ethical conduct in research.

Foroozesh earned a BS in chemistry magna cum laude from Louisiana State University and a PhD in organic/bio-organic chemistry from Tulane University.