Postdoc Excellence Awards highlight outstanding postdocs and faculty mentors

Randy is deserving of this award due to his passion and dedication for mentoring as one of the leaders of our lab. He is always enthusiastic to help any research assistants that approach him for guidance, demonstrating a strong interest in aiding the development of his mentees’ professional skills while stimulating their interest for psychology research.

Aditi consistently demonstrated exceptional patience, accessibility, and genuine investment in my growth, providing guidance that strengthened both my research skills and confidence over the past two years. Her mentorship not only supported the successful completion of my capstone project, but also had a lasting impact on my academic and professional development by fostering independence, helping me overcome self-doubt, and shaping how I see myself as a future audiologist.

Dr. David Murphy is an exceptional mentor who is patient, approachable, and deeply invested in his students, always taking the time to explain complex concepts in a way that is clear and encouraging. He goes above and beyond to support his mentees both academically and personally, creating a positive and engaging environment.

Aaron is an exceptional mentor who has fundamentally shaped how I approach research, pushing me to think more critically while supporting my growth at every step. From navigating unwritten academic norms to finding confidence in your own voice, he doesn’t just invest in your work, he invests in who you’re becoming both as a scientist and as a person.

In her four semesters at UW, Dr. Strikwerda has taught courses across the undergraduate curriculum. Whether an introductory course for non-majors, a first course in proofs for students transitioning form computational to theoretical mathematics, or an advanced course for students in the final year of the program, Dr. Strikwerda excels at creating a classroom environment where students are given the opportunity to have meaningful interactions with her, each other, and the course content.

Dr. Freya Joessel has demonstrated sustained, high-impact leadership across multiple institutional governance, advocacy, and outreach groups, repeatedly identifying unmet needs and creating durable programs that strengthen the postdoctoral community and advancing equity and inclusion. Her service extends well beyond campus through science communication and community engagement that meaningfully benefits historically underrepresented groups and the broader Madison community.

I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have Professor Line Roald not only as my research mentor but also as a life mentor throughout my wonderful postdoc journey. Her outstanding research expertise, extensive professional experience, charismatic personality, and unwavering support have accelerated my growth in remarkable ways.

Andrea elevates those around him by ensuring his trainees are recognized, supported, and empowered. Through thoughtful guidance and steadfast advocacy, he finds and creates opportunities that translate ambition into growth, impact, and success.

Those who are fortunate enough to work with and learn from Dr. Evie Carchman recognize that she not only exemplifies the best qualities of a mentor but also of a sponsor, coach, advocate, and role model. Her unique ability to foster growth, advocate for her mentees, and tirelessly support them through professional and personal challenges make her exceptionally deserving of this Distinguished Mentoring Award.