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Announcing the 2026-27 Global Change Research Fellows

The Southeast Climate Adaptation Science Center (SE CASC) is excited to introduce the 2026–2027 Global Change Research Fellows. Made up of fourteen versatile graduate students from across our consortium institutions, this talented group is preparing to embark on a year-long program dedicated to interdisciplinary studies, professional growth, and cooperative climate adaptation science.

This year’s fellows come to us from consortium institutions including Duke University, the Monacan Indian Nation (United South and Eastern Tribes Member Nation), NC State University, the University of Puerto Rico at Río Piedras, and the University of Tennessee at Knoxville.

Developing Future Science Leaders

Beyond their individual research, our fellows participate in a comprehensive program of collaborative meetings, specialized workshops, and professional development training. Whether they are coordinating events, translating complex research into accessible communication materials, or contributing to network working groups, these students are gaining the hands-on experience and leadership skills required to become the next generation of interdisciplinary science leaders.

Meet the Fellows

EA
Ellyse  Anderson
Ellyse Anderson

PhD Student

NA
Nicole  Arrigo
Nicole Arrigo

PhD Student

AB
Alex Brown
Alex Brown

PhD Student

PC
Prizma  Chapagain
Prizma Chapagain

PhD Student

AG
Amir  Ghajari
Amir Ghajari

PhD Candidate

TG
Tiancheng  Gu
Tiancheng Gu

PhD Student

EJ
Emma Johnson
Emma Johnson

PhD Student

DL
Danny  Lackey
Danny Lackey

PhD Student

CM
Catie  McKinney
Catie McKinney

M.A. Student

DS
Desiree Shelley
Desiree Shelley

PhD Student

RT
Rae  Tennent
Rae Tennent

MSc Student

NV
Natasha  von Seelen

Looking Ahead

These fellows are becoming part of an expanding community focused on climate adaptation across the Southeast and beyond. We are excited about their potential for meaningful contributions and look forward to the fresh insights they will bring to our mission.

See more information about the program on the SE CASC website.

Congratulations to the new cohort!